Freedom of Movement
There is a
complexity to successful architecture in a congested world. With the word congestion
comes a negative connotation. It brings to mind images of stuffy cars parked on
the freeway or people packed onto a sidewalk corner. There are ways to avoid
the congestion and I think this directly relates to the freedom of movement.
One may say
that a Rem Koolhaas project seems uninviting, providing the sense of alienation
as one experiences congestion. However, it is a sense of relief. The movement
is prescribed and allows for the freedom that people crave in a congested
world. Program is broken down into intentful purpose. Users identify with the
space and this results in successful architecture.
I find it interesting how you've identified the idea of "congestion" with two images that convey the word with opposite meanings. The cars in traffic express the notion of claustrophobia through unintended congestion while the Seattle Library expresses a state of calmness through designed congestion. I personally like juxtapositions and this is a good example to use as a tool for design.
ReplyDeleteFurthermore I think that 'freedom of movement' allows one to do just that: move freely within a given context. While there is a positive connotation with fluidity and physical freedom of space in rural, non congested settings, it is often these settings which constrict freedom the most. Freedom to say what you wish, look at what you wish, love who you wish and be who you wish.
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