In-Tension?
“Junk space is a Bermuda triangle of concepts. It cancels distinction and confuses intention with realization” It is true that modernization has killed the concepts and intentions of architecture to serve a different purpose. Air conditioning as described in the reading not only unites the spaces that are separated. It made certain elements lose its significance. Windows are meant to let natural air, light and Ventilation through the interior spaces. Air conditioning made it possible to design buildings without caring about the wind flow or sun direction. Windows have lost their significance and are added by another layer of blinds and curtains almost all the time. It is understandable that windows have to be closed when needed. That's the whole purpose of a window. It is “OPERABLE” How many of us can remember the last time we opened a window? Or do we know if it’s operable. Windows have just become a part of the facade. Nothing more. There’s a turn around in this 21st century as we pretend to care about this under the pretext of “Sustainability”. Do we really care ?
I think what's defined as junk space varies from place to place. Where a window may be considered an apparatus of American junk space because of central air other conditions may withdraw the window from junk space. For example, many homes in Mexico don't have A/C and are passively heating/cooling their houses with strategic window/door operations. Operable openings are key to the conditioning of a space.
ReplyDeleteHey Jerome! Your take on Junkspace enforcing artificiality more than is acceptable is interesting. In your argument using the window, I don't believe a windows only purpose is for air flow but can be used for sunlight or for a sense of transparency. I don't think elements lose their significance but changes its "original" purpose in the instance of Junkspace.
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