Macro vs Micro, The Power of Pattern

Abstract
If we define architecture as a complex system in which all key factors are interconnected, Pattern can be the catalyst for the interaction between these different layers. A configuration of relationships which connect the abstract and pragmatic.

Within this context, some of External Reference Architects projects will be shown. The macro scale of landscape wherein pattern follows the project, emerging from the specificities of the site through a progressive consolidation of typology, construction system and community organization.

The micro scale of interior architecture wherein pattern preceeds the project to induce a deep sensory experience through space, light, music and image projections.

Biography
Carmelo Zappulla is a PhD architect and founding partner of Barcelona based External Reference Architects.

He studied architecture at the Università degli Studi di Palermo, graduating with Honors and special mention, and holds a PhD (European Mention) with Honors from Universidad Politécnica de Catalunya, Barcelona.

Together with Nacho Toribio, Zappulla runs, External Reference Architects, a firm active in design and research in the fields of sensorial spaces, interior design, architecture, and landscape design. He received “New Italian Blood” 1st prize as best Italian office under 36 (2010), with the International Award: 1st Prize in EXHIBITOR Magazine’s 29th Annual Exhibit Design Awards competition (2014) and the 2nd Prize Europan 8.

He is currently Faculty member at IAAC (Instituto de Arquitectura Avanzada de Catalunya) and teacher at IED (Istituto Europeo di Design), where he is also the director of the Master’s Degree program in Interior Design. He collaborates with different architectural schools and institutions, including Strathclyde University, WSA (The Welsh School of Architecture), the Department of Architecture at Cardiff University, Wales, Uk. Moreover, he is external member of Giras-Tec, international research group architecture and society, Barcelona School of Architecture, UPC, Spain.

His work has been exhibited at the Biennale in Venice, during the 12th International Architecture Exhibition, at MAXXI, Rome, at Eme3, Barcelona, Europan 8, Oslo.

His publications include scientific articles published by Routledge and projects published in Future, Il Sole 24 ore, Blueprint, Materia, Frame, Dezeen, Domus, in the books Architect's notebook and Architectural process 2014 by Damdi Publishing co, among others.