READING

Larry Speck, “Technology, sustainability and cultural identity”, Edizioni Press, NY, 2006.

Your Tectonic Theory is a narrative account of your value system as it applies to your building, independent of program—how does the building meet the sky, turn the corner, touch the ground—how does it reveal how it is configured and constructed.
In Technology, Sustainability, and Cultural Identity Larry Speck describes how he applies simple tectonic logic to the design of some of his award winning buildings. He also ties this logic to his larger set of values concerning ‘what architecture should do in the world’ and to the specifics of the programs engaged in each building. This is a rare instance where the architect has let us into his thought process and discussed the intellectual evolution of his architecture without the usual hype. It is a practical and anchored discussion.

As you read this book, please note that his thoughts are not divided into a series of steps; but rather, they flow gently through bundles of observations that freely mix technology, image, program, sustainability, site response, material selection and organization. This is why we chose this book. It is an excellent example of the type of design thinking that we want you to develop. Now that you have a firm foundation of the precincts of the design process, you are ready to artfully bi-associate them as you begin to construe your art/form/solution—delight/firmness/commodity.

In the chapter “Architecture, Globalization, and Local Identity” (p 10-29) Speck explores the relationship between architecture and its regional context. He relates this problem directly to the work of Kahn, Barragan, Aalto and Wright. He then relates these observations to four houses in Central Texas—materials p 18, orientation p 19, site and climate p 20, climate p 23, and site/sun/construction/materials p 28. Please have this chapter read and ready for discussion on 02-23-09.

In the chapter “A Broader View of Sustainability” (p 40-55) he makes the argument that sustainability is more an attitude than a movement and that it is appealing to a larger sense of responsibility than culture or fashion. He discusses his notion of sustainability p 41 and 42, site and light p 44 and 45, and technology and envelope on p 46 and 47. Please have this chapter read and ready for discussion on 02-25-09.

In the chapter “Technology as a Source of Beauty” (p 110-122) he discusses the central issue of this studio—the use and expression of technology in architecture. He begins talking about beauty and craft p 110 and 111. Then he talks about materials and structure p 112 and 113. He discusses technology, craft and material choice on p 114 and 115; and, he concludes the chapter with his discussion of the expansion of the Austin Convention Center and the way in which technology formed the basic architectural logic of the building. Thesis means ‘position’ in Greek. This is truly a built thesis. Please have this chapter read and ready for discussion on 02-27-09.