Japanese architect, Ryue Nishizawa, has a new outline of private and community living with The Moriyama House which is a flexible-format of minimalism. The house is a perfect example of a home designed like a community while connecting the inside and outside. Located in the suburbs of Tokyo, this modern architectural concept presents a multi-building residence comprising a concentration of ten separate cuboids, ranging from 1 to 3 stories high, where every room is a building by itself and the space between the buildings form a passage or garden.
The freedom of using a space is given to the clients which will be used as a residence or rental rooms. The architect breaks from the conventional housing typology to a more organized space forming clusters. It also moves away from the traditional Japanese courtyard type house to form a series of small buildings and gardens – creating a disturbed relational logic where the buildings and the nature form a mature tangible interrelationship.
This concept is also explained by Sanford Kwinter in his article. He writes about the complex relation between man and nature. He strongly justifies that the common perception of nature by the society being a separate entity is a misconception. He has supported his belief with a lot of elaborately described examples. He states that man in merely not an actor in nature but an integral part of it. He emphasizes that computer- man’s prized creation is not merely a tool but a very important interactive medium which can change the way we understand or sense nature. He also highlights that the society has to progress alongside innovation in technology. Over all the article supports that digitizing the world can be more productive and that we should not treat computers differently and it should form an integral part of nature and society.

Image on the right:  Angkor-wat Ruins ,Title: Nature has a way to incorporate us even if we don’t want to.

Image courtesy: www.tarigna.net

I believe architecture is the most mature and advanced form of human ingenuity. The timeless appeal of architecture transcends cultures and generations. Historical eras and civilizations can clearly be identified by their distinct architectural patterns, which serve as icons of a bygone era.

In modern day computers have helped us to realize more complex scenarios, making room for more advance systems of architecture. The early ancient relation we had with nature which got lost in modern times is re-emerging again. Our societies more than ever wants to be integrated with nature.

I am of the opinion that more connections we build with nature the better our world can be. Computers have given us the power to let our imagination run riot. But we shouldn’t be completely dependent on technology. It shouldn’t overpower human thinking and creativity.

Buildings should be emblematic of their era and cities should evolve and age gracefully.  Technology is the biggest drive in defining new spaces. Hence I am driven by the desire to develop a coherent schema of architectural design by incorporating design elements from the past and melding it with modern conveniences to address modern days growing demand of interacting with nature and technology.

References: http://www.wohnmodelle.at

http://openbuildings.com

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island – Undersea Restaurant

photo credits: http://conradhotels3.hilton.com/en/hotels/maldives/conrad-maldives-rangali-island-MLEHICI/gallery/index.html

Readings: 1. Ryue Nishizawa – Moriyama House     2. Sanford Kwinter – Cooking, Yo-ing, Thinking

In a critical analysis of these two texts it can be undoubtedly concluded that the idea is about breaking away from what the society perceive as ‘norms’. In Sanford Kwinters article he strongly justifies that the general perception of nature by the society is a misconception or a rather biased one for that matter, based on previous assumptions of the like. He has done so with quite extensive and elaborate examples before expressing why and how computer (technology) is an element that is amplifying the way we interact with nature. He also highlights that in order for innovations to take effect, it is essential for the society to evolve alongside technology. Overall the article supports the idea that computers are creating new reality.

The short but rich composition of Moriyama House gives a good insight on the aforementioned approach of relating society and culture with nature. The house allows for dynamic use of space depending on the personal preferences of a person who is occupying the space. This is achieved by dispersing the dwelling itself that on standard basis is seen as one unit.

These two articles are strong renditions of the undeniable relations between man, nature and technology. The three elements that comprise to make what is referred to today as advanced architecture. I am in agreement with Sanford Kwinter’s view on its connection and interaction. The better relation between the three, the more advanced architecture we unveil. The confusion is what combination or balance of the three might be the ‘better’ relation? How do we quantify the limits? This is where one might be skeptical about the idea of digital world. Looking into the existing extents and acceptable extents amongst a given society for a given technological aspect may reveal interesting connections. This I believe would help me understand the aspects though which I may be able to adapt or manipulate one factor of the three to achieve more innovative or advanced architecture.