BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN ARCHITECTURE

THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM (ARC61303

SYNOPSIS: REACTION PAPER (August 2017)

Name: Kimberly Ann Aussie ID No.: 0325881

Lecturer: Mr. Prince Tutorial Time:
Reader/Text Title: A - Towards a Critical Synopsis No: 4
Regionalism: Six Points for an Architecture of Author: Kenneth Frampton
Resistance

The text, “Towards a Critical Regionalism: Six Points for an Architecture of Resistance” by Kenneth
Frampton describes the problems restricting the development of architecture in modernism. Culture and
civilisation, avant-garde as well as regionalism and the world culture has limited possibilities of creating the
significant urban form. Similar to Noberg-Schulz’s idea, Frampton talks of how architecture should pay
attention social value and protect meanings of the past, combining it with futuristic qualities. The fuse of
culture from other places causes architecture to lose its identity and connection to the local context, as well
as tradition and culture.

Frampton’s criticism of modern buildings in present times is due to the lack of identity as most are
facilitated by technology without thoughts of design processes. It seems that while there is an extensive
improvement in technological and financial waves, urban design was compromised. Albeit being functional,
these mass-produced spaces lack quality of space and memories as discussed by Pallasmaa. In addition,
Frampton states that the emergence of avant-garde has brought architecture from the art and craft
movement to minimalism. I agree with Frampton, as history shows that avant-garde has caused architecture
to be less contextualised, losing its own identity. The persuasion of superficial needs to appear avant-garde
begun and neglected the needed relationship between human and architecture. For example, in the arts
and craft movement, lavish ornamentations are visibly present but to what extend was it intended for? It
may be just to attract attention and make statements as to keep up with current trends of aesthetic values.

In conclusion, the similar lack of appreciation to the past tradition between both points of
Frampton’s view shows that rather than having imitation of space, the integration of past traditions and
cultures should be integrated such as to serve a better purpose besides being just an art piece. A liveable
space is what is to be achieved ultimately.

Word Count: 314 Mark Grade

Assessed by: Date Page No.