Architectural theory

I have chosen the concept of adaptability as the theory for my architecture. I believe that adaptability is a very broad term and covers many issues that architectural needs to deal with, and thus makes for a theory that is cohesive.

The article that I have sourced the idea from introduces the concept of adaptability by discretising an architectural system into elements and sub-elements and determining levels of adaptability. The levels are stated as flexible, active, dynamic, interactive, intelligent, and smart, ranging from a building which requires physical manipulation to adapt, up until a building which consciously adapts through a system of self-learning, similar to AI.

However, I developed my theory with a difference. I defined adaptability as either the ability to confront physical phenomena and external stimuli (ie. wind, sun, circulation, situation), or the ability to deal with more insidious issues (ie. population growth, wealth, future development). This way, I can include both the 'flexible' elements defined in the article (like interactive elements), as well as a design which acts in a 'dynamic' way (like modulation).

The adaptable thesis also provides excellent opportunity for moving elements, and implicitly refers to movement as adaptation is a dynamic process in its own right.

THE THESIS

Words:
-Adaptable
-Implications
-Realisation
-Anticipate

"Adaptable architecture is able to confront the implications of a current situation. Through realisation of the external environment, architecture can anticipate."

Article source: C.M.J.L. Lelieveld, "Adaptable Architecture" (PhD diss, Delft University of Technology, 2013), 245-252.