Experimental Architecture
Encyclopedia
Experimental Architecture is a branch of the architectural discipline concerned with the development of conceptual projects challenging conventional and consolidated practices. Its main objective is to explore original paths of thought and develop innovative design tools and methodologies.
in 1970, with the publication of the book "Experimental Architecture" . Through critical readings of several twentieth century projects - architectural and urban - Cook instigated ways of counteracting the architectural rules that “falls back upon tradition, stylization, or cant.”
, who devoted his career to the exploration of the potential carried by an experimental approach to architecture. In 1988 Woods founded the Research Institute for Experimental Architecture (RIEA), with the intent to promote and develop experimental methods within architectural education and practice. The first RIEA conference on Experimental Architecture was held August 4–8, 1989, at Emmond Farms, New York. Since then, Experimental Architecture has influenced the pedagogy of various schools and institutions, such as SCI-ARC, Los Angeles ; Cooper Union
, New York; and The Bartlett
School of Architecture, London.
Foundation
Experimental Architecture was brought into discourse by Peter Cook (architect)Peter Cook (architect)
Professor Sir Peter Cook, founder of Archigram , former Director the Institute of Contemporary Arts, London and the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London, has been a pivotal figure within the global architectural world for over half a century. His ongoing contribution to...
in 1970, with the publication of the book "Experimental Architecture" . Through critical readings of several twentieth century projects - architectural and urban - Cook instigated ways of counteracting the architectural rules that “falls back upon tradition, stylization, or cant.”
Definition
The definition of Experimental Architecture as a distinct disciplinary field is mostly due to the work and research of Lebbeus WoodsLebbeus Woods
Lebbeus Woods is an American architect and artist.-Career:Woods studied architecture at the University of Illinois and engineering at Purdue University and first worked in the offices of Eero Saarinen, but in 1976 turned exclusively to theory and experimental projects. He has designed buildings in...
, who devoted his career to the exploration of the potential carried by an experimental approach to architecture. In 1988 Woods founded the Research Institute for Experimental Architecture (RIEA), with the intent to promote and develop experimental methods within architectural education and practice. The first RIEA conference on Experimental Architecture was held August 4–8, 1989, at Emmond Farms, New York. Since then, Experimental Architecture has influenced the pedagogy of various schools and institutions, such as SCI-ARC, Los Angeles ; Cooper Union
Cooper Union
The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, commonly referred to simply as Cooper Union, is a privately funded college in the East Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City, United States, located at Cooper Square and Astor Place...
, New York; and The Bartlett
The Bartlett
The Bartlett is the Faculty of the Built Environment at University College London. University College London created the first chair of architecture in 1841, and the school is named after the original benefactor, Sir Herbert Bartlett.-External links:*...
School of Architecture, London.