EXP 2
Two architects.

The list of concepts relating to the two chosen architects, Louis Kahn and Balkrishna Doshi, as brainstormed by the class:




Dead:

Louis Kahn









  • He establishes a hierarchy of spatial organisation in that primary spaces are often centralised, whereas secondary spaces are placed on the fringes
  • Focussing on functionality whilst giving life to architecture 
  • The materiality and method of assembly of the building should be clear to anyone who sees it, this creates a grander sense of weight and presence 
  • Form did not necessarily follow the function
  • "Each space should have its own shape and form" 
  • He juxtaposes both materials and geometry, using not only conventional materials like concrete, but also using timber in unexpected ways 
  • "All matter is made up of light, and matter casts shadows, and the light and shadows make a space." 
  • There is a relationship between servant and served spaces, whereby servant spaces like stairways and corridors facilitate the function of the served living spaces
  • Emphasis placed on strong geometric forms of the building, which in turn dramatically influences its relationship to light 



Living:


Balkrishna Doshi






  • Interrelationship between indoor and outdoor spaces 
  • Drawing in natural light through forms which in turn diffuses light and creates ambiance 
  • Traditionally geometric shapes are made to look new through materiality 
  • Brutalism and ruggedness of raw materials such as brick and concrete
  • "Landscape is the primary architectural mediator, the ground and building are in separable." 
  • Relates his architecture to the history of his home country of India. Brutalist form relates to the skilled craftsmen of his culture 
  • Flexible rather than rigid approach to the structure 
  • Responding to the tropical climate of the site
  • The use of columns to define a space 
  • The Buddhist caves of Ajamta and Ellora inspired Doshi to design the interior with circles and ellipses
  • The architecture features overlapping layers and transitional areas which encourages fluid and adaptable living conditions, customary in Indian tradition

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