Category: Publications

Back to the Future: Challenges of Experimental House Projects designed for Future Scenarios
Marta Grbić, Sanja Nikolić

https://doi.org/10.60152/k81s6ct1

Abstract: Prediction of new ways of living is repeatedly used as unlimited inspiration for architectural design through history. Narrowing down the range of the research in order to understand the flux of historical ideas for future living, we focused on the design of domestic environments imagined for various future scenarios and challenges. The aim was to create a clearly cross-examined overview of projects of houses dating from 1927 to 2009 by extracting and defining their aims, strategies and imagined future scenarios. We endeavoured to present the breakthrough radical designs, but also a series of Japanese capsule drawings. The focus was on compact and transformable spaces. Speaking of the concept of ‘home of the future’, its breakthrough showed up as a result of the twentieth-century revolutions and wars, with the birth of new after-war societies and their new needs; as a result of industrial and technological revolutions and as a result of architects’ eternal intrigue for tomorrow. The birth of television had been defining our living spaces from 1940s until the arrival of internet overtook that role. The ‘press button’ fantasies induce creation of labour-saving designs, which is nowadays realized  in fully automated smart houses. The mobile houses marked 1960s and 1970s. However, the sci-fi imagination from the movies in the same period also directly inspired configuration of ‘smart’ houses. Dramatic growth of population throughout the whole twentieth century made various space-minimising and flexibility-maximising strategies. On the contrary, many alternative projects activate emotional and psychological realm through surreal, idyllic and natural and dreamy shapes in homes. After all, we can say that our contemporary notion of domesticity appears through self-sufficiency, mini living, nomadism and efficiency. The ‘future’ preoccupation triggered some meaningful exhibitions, articles and books that gave the overview for published projects within this topic.

Keywords: experimental housing, house of the future, radical design, Japanese metabolism, mobile house.

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Grbić, M and Nikolić, S. (2024) ‘Back to the Future: Challenges of Experimental House Projects designed for Future Scenarios’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 188–201. 

Graph-Based Problem-Solving and Representation: Levels of Deployment in Computational Design Process
Dragana Ćirić

https://doi.org/10.60152/7clkf2xv

Abstract: The paper addresses the question of the deployment of ‘dependency graph’-based problem-solving and representation methods. The question is observed in terms of decomposition levels of the computational design process and the subject of computation, or graph representation and modelling. Based on the stated criteria that firstly distinguish process graphs from object-based or formally congruent graphs, and secondly identify sublevels within the formed classes, the paper explains 1. two levels of the first group (1a. the level of a complete design problem-solving algorithm (metalevel process propagation graphs) and 1b. the level of smaller problem-solving clusters of methods (specific operations graphs, or sequential process propagation graphs)) and 2. specificities of the second group at the level of content that is to be modelled as a graph (subject-based graphs,  including formal network-graph congruency). The importance of determining deployment levels has been recognised in the need to clarify, in a systematised way, the graphs’ use, pursuing elaboration of each application level’s scope or problem-solving coverage, and complexity considering the subject of analysis and representation. The study supports the aim of developing new and optimised process workflows and better-informed conduct when approaching computational design problems and tasks, leading to a higher standard of performance at each scale and construction/design stage of the computational problem-solving path and representation.  In that respect, the stated arguments are supported by the examples drawn from the experimental case of dependency (network and navigation) graph application in the field of architectural and urban computing, defined and tested in Grasshopper. The structure and results of the thereby created graphs, based on the investigated subjects of transportation infrastructure design and analytics, dynamic localisation, and path-finding, are parsed in a way that best corresponds to the intended instructional explanation. The case study provides supporting evidence in the form of graph-based workflows and formal geometric outputs resulting from their propagation – i.e., it supplements arguments diagrammatically and provides illustrations of the stated points.

Keywords: Network Graphs, Diagrams, Design Process, Computational Design Methodology, Computational Problem-Solving, Algorithmic Thinking, Urban and Architectural Computation, Smart Cities, Intelligent Cities, Intelligent Architecture

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Ćirić, D. (2024) ‘Graph-Based Problem-Solving and Representation: Levels of Deployment in Computational Design Process’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 171–181. 

BIM – search for information
Igor Svetel

https://doi.org/10.60152/d9q2h7tv

Abstract: The digitalization in the AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations) sector is often heralded as a revolution in the way of working. However, it turned out to be a gradual evolution of the process. An industry accustomed to monolithic representations containing all necessary data for a certain project phase has a hard time changing its habits. The first digitalization step was creating those documents using a computer. The second step is BIM technology, which has the ambition to remain the final form of digitalization in the AECO sector. The IFC scheme, which represents basis of the openBIM concept enabling connection among all BIM applications, also represents one monolithic digital model. Conceived to represent one AECO project, the IFC scheme contains all data about the single project. Additional technologies such as Data Dictionary and Data Templates, which add more data structures to the basic model, have been developed to enrich IFC. Currently, the focus in the BIM community is on models containing all the necessary data that users require. Different kinds of information requirements define what data should be included in models. Most of the effort is focused on including the data in the model, and little on how the data will be extracted from the model. The fact that well-structured data does not represent the whole information is recognized in the ISO 7817 standard, which states that when creating the Level of information need, attention should be paid to who, when, why and to what extent will use information, although it does not specify how to use these prerequisites to search for information. The paper analyzes the ways to search BIM data structures from the simplest browsing using the BIM viewer to more complex techniques. Existing proposals are considered, and original ones based on the latest BIM developments are given.

Keywords: BIM, information, browsing, query

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Svetel, I. (2024) ‘BIM - search for information’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 165–170. 

Phenomenology, Space, Architecture
Dejan Milivojević

https://doi.org/10.60152/f3v4zrix

Abstract: The study of the relationship between phenomenology as a philosophical method and phenomenology as an architectural method reveals that they contradict each other. Phenomenology does not imply hypotheses or theoretical generalisations. The method of phenomenological reduction and recording perceives space as a form of self-realisation, without any components of the objective or subjective in the traditional sense of their duality. Phenomenology is the truth in which space and being are perceived as one, and such a unity is phenomenal, i.e. present without temporal constraints. Architecture has different viewpoints. In architecture, space is embodied in the form. The architect has deserted the phenomenon of space in order to oppose it. Yet, there is the content in architecture, which is a phenomenological image (eidos). Thus, a place is created which we describe sensually given that volume, texture, materials, fenestrations, details, craftsmanship and technological perfection, horticulture, etc. are also present, but as the motives of everyday temporal space. Architecture is not space, but space as a phenomenon would not exist without architecture and subjective reality in general. The phenomenon of space is, thus originated from the process of individuation. This implies that the job of an architect is not to deal with designing the philosophy of architectural space; actually, we are talking about the geometry of assemblage. Nevertheless, dealing with philosophy is desirable because, as Vitruvius wrote, philosophy refines the architect. The paper examines what phenomenology is and how we understand it, as well as how it addresses the problem of space. Architecture is closely related to people and their living environment, and thus, to the problem of space. Investigating these questions, we turned to the founder of phenomenology, Edmund Husserl and his student, Martin Heidegger. Studying the perspectives of architectural practice in the second half of the 20^th century, we relied on two concepts: science of space and post-modernism. These two theoretical approaches differ greatly but share a historically justified and well-established method in the process of form constitution, which is an analytical procedure related to the geometry of assemblage. It is what reinforces our conviction of the need for further research into the geometry of the architectural form assemblage. Notable contemporary architects agree.

Keywords: phenomenology, space, architecture,Science of Space, Postmodernism

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Milivojević, D. (2024) ‘Phenomenology, Space, Architecture’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 131–138. 

Special Issues in Architectural Design: Fluidity and Transformability in Residential Spaces
Kosta Stojanović

https://doi.org/10.60152/b5vp6zi6

Abstract: This paper addresses the increasing demand for flexibility and adaptability in contemporary residential architecture, driven by rapid societal changes and the multifaceted nature of modern living. The research focuses on how architectural design can accommodate diverse functions within a single space, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need for multifunctional homes. The study investigates the principles of flexibility and transformability as essential components of residential design in the 21^st century. Paper examines three case studies that exemplify adaptable residential architecture: Duinker & Van der Torre’s housing project in Amsterdam (1987), Moshe Safdie’s Habitat 67 in Quebec (1967), and MVRDV’s Valley project in Amsterdam (2021). These case studies were selected based on their innovative use of modular layouts, multifunctional spaces, and the integration of natural elements. The research aims to analyze how these projects employ architectural strategies to meet changing user needs while also enhancing sustainability. The findings reveal that flexible design solutions, such as movable partitions, multifunctional furniture, and modular construction techniques, not only optimize space but also reduce the environmental impact by minimizing the need for new construction or extensive renovations. The integration of green spaces further enhances the living environment, providing psychological and physical benefits to residents. These projects demonstrate that adaptable architectural designs can effectively respond to the complexities of urban living, where space is limited, and user needs are constantly evolving. The paper concludes that residential architecture must embrace flexibility and transformability as core design principles to ensure long-term relevance and sustainability. By integrating these concepts, architects can create dynamic, user-centered environments that support diverse functions while fostering a harmonious relationship between built spaces and the natural environment. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable architecture, offering insights into future residential designs that prioritize adaptability, functionality, and environmental responsibility.

Keywords: Flexibility, Transformability, Residential spaces, Housing, Globalization, Multifunctional spaces

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Stojanović, K. (2024) ‘Special Issues in Architectural Design: Fluidity and Transformability in Residential Spaces’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 93–101. 

Lessons From The Past – Post-Earthquake Artefacts of Solidarity
Tamara Koneska

https://doi.org/10.60152/0kqqibig

Abstract: After the devastating earthquake of 1963, Skopje embarked on a new path of development, one that, in terms of morphology and scale, did not align with its previous urban matrix. The natural disaster created an urgent need but also an opportunity to reshape the city’s image. The reconstruction of Skopje was planned and executed in a way that, at the time, represented a kind of precedent in Yugoslav and global planning and architectural practice. It occurred at a specific historical moment, leading historians to believe that it ultimately played a significant role in preventing an entirely different kind of catastrophe on a global scale. It emerged as both a necessity and a confirmation of the universality of the challenges of city reconstruction, urban development planning, and the design of their future physiognomies. Croatian architectural critic Maroje Mrduljaš stated that Skopje became a hub of architectural experimentation following the earthquake, with the participation of numerous architects from around the world and the former Yugoslavia, united by the innovative vision of a new city center designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange. “At that time, Skopje was indeed a large urban and architectural experiment, certainly progressive,” he said. Simultaneously, while the reconstruction process itself was based on a top-down approach typical of communist regimes at the time, authorities took into account all social and cultural issues with a pragmatic approach to social integration and transformation. Although significant donations and massive investments, with substantial assistance from the United Nations and 90 countries worldwide, were collected over 25 years following the earthquake, the center of Skopje was never entirely completed. Tange’s plan was not realized and implemented, most likely due to a discrepancy between bold, postmodernist aspirations and local (in)feasibilities, primarily due to a lack of resources. However, when carefully examining the process of urban and architectural planning at that time, can we assume that all of this happened during a crisis in utopian architecture and urbanism, a crisis that influenced the current outcome of planning and the city’s appearance? Is there a better confirmation of this crisis than the existence of four different urban paradigms in eight competition entries in the international competition of 1965? With all its shortcomings, the Skopje reconstruction plan was an experiment that bolstered the city’s urban identity on the world stage, as well as its functional aspects. It belongs to a period in architectural history when the city and architecture within it were still perceived as a “collective endeavour” and a “public matter,” as well as an essential tool for societal and cultural advancement; a time of grand projects and unrealized utopias. Despite everything, the fact remains that, despite possible geopolitical motives behind the mobilization of various nations worldwide, the city became the backdrop for an act of universal solidarity and symbolized global unity.

Keywords: collective memory, City of Solidarity, Yugoslavia, Skopje, post-earthquake reconstruction

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Koneska, T. (2024) ‘Lessons From The Past – Post-Earthquake Artefacts of Solidarity’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 27–35. 

Potential Impact of the Metaverse on Residential Space Changes
Đorđe Alfirević, Marina Nenković-Riznić, Sanja Simonović Alfirević

https://doi.org/10.60152/3g7egffa

Abstract: This paper contributes to the understanding of how technological innovations, such as the metaverse, shape our living environment, providing insights into potential changes in residential spaces that we can expect in the future. By analysing current development trends, the study explores how the concept of the metaverse might transform the way we live and utilise residential space. The focus is on potential changes in residential environments over time, under the influence of the metaverse. The research centres on four key aspects of potential alterations: a) miniaturisation of the area and structure of living spaces, b) the disappearance of certain types of rooms, c) the reduction of the size and dimensions of specific spaces (social spaces for entertainment and gathering, kitchen spaces, etc.), and d) the transformation of physical spaces into virtual entities. The research methodology included an analysis of current development trends in metaverse technology and its impact on the architectural design of residential spaces. Descriptive analysis, trend analysis, and case studies were employed to identify potential changes and their effects on residential space users. The aim of the paper is to re-examine the hypothesis that the implementation of metaverse technology will significantly transform residential spaces, causing miniaturisation, the disappearance of certain traditional room types, reduction in the size and dimensions of certain rooms, and the transformation of physical spaces into virtual entities. Metaverse technology holds great potential to transform how we live and use residential spaces. Anticipated changes include more efficient use of space, adaptation of rooms to meet the new needs of users, and the integration of virtual elements into physical spaces to support interactions via the metaverse. This research provides a foundation for further exploration and implementation of metaverse technology in the architectural design of residential spaces.

Keywords: Metaverse, Residential space, Technological innovation, Miniaturisation of living spaces, Virtual-physical transformation, Architectural design

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Alfirević, Đ, Nenković-Riznić, M. and Simonović Alfirević S. (2024) ‘Potential Impact of the Metaverse on Residential Space Changes’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 139–148. 

A study on the Conversion of Modernism Buildings in Kitakyushu City, Japan
Yurika Mori

https://doi.org/10.60152/i8rom8ts

Abstract: This study is research on the preservation and utilization of modernism architecture since world war II in the city of Kitakyushu. Currently, the architectural community in Japan is discussing the survival of postwar Modernism architecture. Kitakyushu City in Fukuoka Prefecture, located in the Kyushu region of southern Japan, is an area where a variety of architectural styles can be seen, including neoclassical, Modernism, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and postmodern architecture, and these buildings are being preserved and utilized. This study aims to clarify the method of renovation of modernism architecture in Kitakyushu City by surveying and analyzing the status and renovation history of facilities. Questionnaire survey of 49 modernism buildings. As a result of the survey, it was found that about half of the facilities studied had undergone renovation with a change of use, and that the renovation was categorized into large-scale renovation and small-scale renovation. A comparison of the uses before and after the change of use revealed that many of the buildings were converted to multi-functional complexes that can accommodate multiple functions. Those facilities that have not undergone a change of use were found to be commercial facilities and gymnasiums that can accommodate changing times and multi-functional uses. It was found that the modern architecture in Kitakyushu City has been transformed into facilities that can flexibly accommodate multiple functions, and that several large-scale renovations have been mainly implemented.

Keywords: Modernism architecture; Conservation; Renovation; Kitakyushu city; Conversion of architectural facility

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Mori, Y. (2024) ‘A study on the Conversion of Modernism Buildings in Kitakyushu City, Japan’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 182–187. 

Ideas Have Consequences
Denis Ambruš, Vlatko Dusparić

https://doi.org/10.60152/s777vquv

Abstract: “The Bat’a Company implemented the ideas for an industrial garden city that had been formulated in theory,” is a quote from Ladislava Hornakova’s book, referencing Bat’a’s ideal industrial cities of the future in Zlin. In our view, the progressivist theoretical models of these cities, developed within the urban planning department of the Bat’a Company’s Construction Office from 1930 to 1937, have little in common with the principles of the culturalist urban planning model proposed by Sir Ebenezer Howard, the founder of the garden city concept. This confusing label, viewed through the lens of urban planning, leads us to further exploration in order to avoid possible misclassification of these plans in accordance with the appropriate urban planning model as suggested by Francoise Choay. Choay categorizes European urban planning into two opposing models: culturalism and progressivism. Although these models share certain elements, Choay suggests nuancing as a way to distinguish between them, indicating a range of variations. Regarding the classification of the urbanization type and the urban planning model for the Ideal Industrial City of the Future by R. H. Podzemny, from the Bat’a Company’s Urban Planning Department in Zlin, we propose the following preliminary hypotheses: The plan offers an entirely new satellite city to serve the function of urban decentralization; it belongs to the progressivist model of modernist urban planning (functionalism); and it fundamentally opposes the core principles of Howard’s culturalist garden city model. When it comes to the “garden city” label, as preliminary research shows, the only connection between these opposing urban planning models lies in the high value placed on greenery in spatial planning. At the same time, the approach to urban greenery design differs significantly: public parks and private gardens stand in contrast to the non-functional greenery of the functionalist city. Another significant difference is in the type of urbanization: Howard’s “social city” versus the singular satellite city.

Keywords: garden cities, type of urbanization, theoretical urban planning model

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Ambruš, D. and Dusparić, V. (2024) ‘Ideas Have Consequences’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 23–26. 

See publication On Architecture (2024) Conference Proceedings

Sustainability of the 21^st Century Logistics Landscape: Warehouse Roofscapes as a Potential for Hydroponic Agriculture
Tereza Nalezená

https://doi.org/10.60152/v3mzs4va

Abstract: Today, the logistics landscape forms a stable part of the urban transect, where it largely shapes the entrance gates to cities. The Central European region in particular faces a massive increase in warehouse construction. In 2023, its net area reached 59 million sqm and grows by 7 million sqm each year. The paved and impermeable area of its surroundings is, however, 3x – 4x larger, which leads to a wastage of quality agricultural land and water in the landscape and to the formation of heat islands that negatively affect the climate of adjacent cities. Topically, the logistics construction is needed, therefore we must find solutions to its negative effects on the landscape, populated areas and society, and humanize their current state. One way of saving space is layering logistics with other functions. The most feasible way of using the roof landscape appears to be hydroponic agriculture – from its open form to plastic greenhouse plants to year-round RTGs using waste heat from warehouses. Hydroponic farms can be placed on most of the existing flat urban roofs due to their light weight and enable them to cool down and green up. At the same time, they can locally produce a surprisingly large number of crops per month. This can shorten the food paths, thus strengthening the food security and the overall resilience of cities. The solution is therefore based on 3+1 pillars of sustainability: economic, social, environmental + aesthetic and meets the goals of the Green Deal for Europe. However, developers and warehouse tenants are open to the idea only if it works as an independent business case (bringing new economic value), has a benefit for the company’s ESG strategy or green marketing and does not create requirements on maintenance. That is why the start-up project “Lettuce on the roof”, described in this article, was created as part of the research. It aims to popularize the idea, to explain its sustainability and economic benefits, to compile its business plan and thereby attract the interest of stakeholders. The project continues by the implementation of a pilot roof farm at the Technical University of Liberec, which proves the feasibility but also the economic potential, which is a condition for the roof farm quantification and expansion from small urban roofs to large roof areas of warehouses.

Keywords: warehouse construction, RTGs, sustainability, urban agriculture, roof hydroponic farm, soil protection

How to cite this Paper (Harvard referencing style):

Nalezená, T. (2024) ‘Sustainability of the 21st Century Logistics Landscape: Warehouse Roofscapes as a Potential for Hydroponic Agriculture’, in R. Bogdanović (ed.) On Architecture — Shaping the City through Architecture, Proceedings. Belgrade, Serbia: STRAND, pp. 82–92. 

See publication On Architecture (2024) Conference Proceedings