Context + Political Reach

 

The Smile, London, Alison Brooks Architects

“Despite having become a crucial political battleground, architecture and urbanism appear to be unable to find a role within this new politics.”

-Alejandro Zaera

How can we use architecture and components of architecture to fuel politics and social movements in a positive way?

The need for a more powerful interior or envelope is a large topic of debate. There are many factors that need to be considered when picking a side. First and foremost, what is the context and urban make-up of where this building sits? It makes much more sense for a building with a more-informed interior to exist in a suburban area where there is a larger sprawl. The use of the building or the function trumps exterior aesthetic needs to due its smaller tourist audience. Buildings in the city on the other hand, demand an envelope experience for onlookers. In terms of politics and social movements, buildings in the city are utilized for backdrops and vehicles to further agendas. Having a skin that allows for a conversation seen by many versus an interior that offers congregation space. The skin will have a larger impact due to the larger demographic it is going to reach. Skins or envelopes also spark conversations about bigger problems and can be utilized as living billboards of what the future can and should be.