Field Conditions

Analysis By: Makayla Bruce

From Object to Field

Similar to how countless organisms contribute to local and global ecosystems, the concept ‘from object to field’ is essentially a network of nodes that work to make a coalescent whole. When connecting an object to a field there are inputs that manipulate expressions portrayed in any given space. The idea itself is incorporated into the planning process through a series of events and natural occurrences that happen at a site. For example, when planning a community around a body of water, there is a natural landmark or point that can establish the design of the establishment. In this particular case, one is given a plane with a central node, and he or she must plan and design supporting objects/ elements that contribute to the field as a whole.

Geometric VS. Algebraic Combination

Algebraic expressions consist of patterns which means one can determine how to solve a problem based on practiced methods learned through the generations. Applying this idea to architectural works, the Great Mosque Cordoba exemplifies the application of an algorithm like method of construction. Looking at the timeline and stages of development, one can see that the Mosque’s design and methods of construction have not changed–even during generational shifts. With this being said, geometric combinations are not the same as algebraic combinations. While algebraic looks at consistency in construction, geometric allows for transformation with respect to its original form. As can be seen in many classical buildings like St. Peter’s in Rome, when modifications are made, there tend to be instances where there are significant changes in design. In all, geometric combinations promote the concept of “compositional closure” and sometimes eventually show stylistic change and preference over time (Allen 94).

Walking Out of Cubism

Architecturally prominent in the 1920s, cubism was a segue into minimalistic trends. During the minimalist era, much of any design was geared towards pre-designed styles and uses of material to achieve simplicity and cleanliness in their work. Because of these trends that brought expression to a minimum, the style itself became more sequential and against suggestions of ornament and complexity. Therefore, while other styles may be a symbiotic display of events and lavish beautification, minimalism seeks to compose tailored experiences through spatial manipulation.

Flocks, Schools, Swarms, Crowds

When observing a flock of birds, one can see how when a lead shifts the rest of the collective moves along with it. This idea is programable and through this formation and shifts in a field. In design, there are natural and programmable shifts that can commend certain actions or paths of circulation on a field/ space. Shaped by the environment/ local conditions, transitions within flock like spaces become natural. For example, there is natural separation and path making done in public spaces where people pass through. Although this is different from that of a flock of birds, people move together when traveling in similar directions. In addition, outside components and conditions that could ban people together or change movement in a field are behavioral and mood changes in a crowd.

Distributed Institutions

The idea of distributed institutions on a field evokes the idea of separation of parts. When distributing institutions, you are breaking apart a collective whole to form strong singular sub-sections. By creating strong subsections, there is room for growth and an individual display of strength from each branch. While separation allows for individualization, there are ways to maintain relations within a field through incorporating paths between each distributed group. So overall, through the separation of institutions, primary and secondary spaces that are developed can also achieve axiality, symmetry, and formal hierarchy.