by mlovette | May 28, 2023
Site (1): Matthew Knight Arena –
University of Oregon’s Basketball Arena and Concert Venue.
Site (2): South Campus Walkway – Between Hayward Field / Unthank Hall:
A main path/walkway on campus that leads to all main facilities of the university (e.g recreation center, emu, knight library, etc.)
Hayward Field: track & field competition venue
Unthank Hall: student dorms tributed to the first African-American architect to graduate from UO’s architecture program
Hostile architecture is a long lasting phenomenon throughout our entire world. Especially, in our present day where new forms of technology are producing new elements that are intended to reduce vandalism and loitering within the the public realm. Throughout the city of Eugene there are different forms of hostile architecture that has be implemented for these specific issues. The examples that I discovered are specifically aimed at two (2) demographics within Lane County which are the adolescent and homeless population.
Unfortunately, the two forms of hostile architecture that I discovered are closely attached to the University’s athletic facilities. The first form I discovered, which are also present throughout the entire university are these decorative elements that are known as “laser modern edges” made of aluminum that appear aesthetically durable. In other words, these fixed shiny elements main purpose is to avoid vandalism from the growing skateboarding community. Each elements are arrayed (spaced) out at evenly along curbs, retaining walls, benches, rails and plant boxes to avoid what is known as “grinding” a popular skateboard trick on each of these surfaces. After seeing different examples and placements of these edge guards I believe they simultaneously eliminate loitering of large groups. Or at least a space that offers a sense of avoidance and discomfort for any type of dweller that would like to sit and relax in the area with others.
The reduction of loitering within the public realm from these elements is a segue into the second architectural element that discovered on UO’s campus which is a newly developed set of fixed furniture. The furniture are 3-4 chairs that are adjacently spaced next to one another at different levels and a wider seat back angle to diminish both accessible and ergonomic issues for the common dweller. Although, these architectural elements show intent for good cause for the surrounding context and community there’s a sublet nuance of hostile architecture within the furniture itself. The different seat levels are intended to accommodate dwellers from youth to an adult ensuring a comfortable and welcoming space. Except for those of the homeless population—they’re able to sit and relax as well as the common dweller but the seat levels avoid long periods of loitering such as sleeping. Both subtle changes within the set of furniture become exploited in opposing ways or at least obtain a form design that can represent hostile and non-hostile architecture. Both forms of hostile architecture discussed are common issues throughout our entire world by protecting construction elements and public seating areas from damage or loitering. However, the city of Eugene has provided other design elements to help accommodate both populations through skate parks and temporary housing projects. But how does the city offer similar solutions that are offered within the public realm that allows marginalized populations to seek inclusivity and accessibility with the common dweller.
(Top Left: West Entrance, Matthew Knight Arena / Bottom Left: North Walkway, Matthew Knight Arena)
/ (Top Left: UO Walkway, Between Hayward Field & Unthank (hall) Dorm / Bottom Right: Main Entrance, Bowerman Sport Science Center)
by mlovette | May 24, 2023
“The London Spikes Controversy: Homelessness, Urban Securitisation and the Question of ‘Hostile Architecture” is a thought-provoking reading that explores the issue of homelessness and the use of “hostile architecture” in urban spaces, with a focus on the controversial case of the London Spikes. The reading, written by an urban studies scholar, analyzes the social and political implications of these spikes and raises important questions about the ethics and effectiveness of such architectural interventions. The London Spikes, also known as “anti-homeless spikes,” are metal studs installed in public areas to deter individuals experiencing homelessness from sleeping or resting in these spaces. The reading delves into the underlying causes of homelessness, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches that address the root causes of the issue rather than resorting to exclusionary measures.
By examining the phenomenon of hostile architecture, the reading prompts readers to reflect on the broader implications of urban design choices on marginalized populations. It highlights the potential consequences of prioritizing security and aesthetics over the well-being and dignity of individuals in public spaces. The reading sheds light on the resistance and activism that emerged in response to the London Spikes, demonstrating the power of public opinion and collective action in challenging oppressive urban practices. It encourages readers to reconsider the concept of public space as a site of inclusivity and social interaction. “The London Spikes Controversy” provides a critical examination of hostile architecture, homelessness, and urban securitization. By interrogating the ethical dimensions of architectural interventions and the impact on marginalized communities, the reading invites readers to contemplate alternative approaches to urban design that prioritize social justice and inclusivity.
The implementation of hostile architecture in public spaces has sparked significant disagreement and raised concerns about its impact on social cohesion and inclusivity. This approach, aimed at deterring certain behaviors or populations, creates a profound disconnect within communities due to underlying social and political agendas. Opponents argue that hostile architecture exacerbates existing social inequalities and stigmatizes marginalized populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness. By installing measures such as anti-homeless spikes, sloping benches, or armrests on benches, public spaces become unwelcoming and uncomfortable for individuals in need. This approach not only fails to address the root causes of homelessness but also perpetuates a cycle of exclusion and dehumanization. Moreover, the implementation of hostile architecture reflects wider political agendas and power dynamics. Critics argue that these design choices prioritize the interests of certain groups, such as property owners or businesses, while disregarding the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals. It reinforces a vision of public spaces that caters to specific social and economic elites, leading to a further fragmentation of society. This disconnect arising from the implementation of hostile architecture highlights the need for alternative approaches to urban design. Advocates for inclusive and participatory design argue for the creation of public spaces that promote social interaction, accessibility, and a sense of belonging for all community members. By fostering a more inclusive environment, cities can challenge the divisive nature of hostile architecture and work towards a more equitable and cohesive society.
The Museum of Natural and Cultural History is a center of interdisciplinary research and education, serving the State of Oregon, the University of Oregon, Native American Tribes, the research community, K-12 students and teachers, and the wider public in Oregon and beyond. The space emulates an art museum that breaks the distinction between the interior and exterior. In other words, it exuberates an experience from both sorts of dynamics by having narratives, artifacts and furniture that represents the buildings program. From an architectural perspective it embraces inclusivity and accessibility for its surrounding community. However, there a very miniscule nuances within certain design elements that can fall under the category of hostile architecture if you’re viewing it from an accessibility point of view from physical use to sight lines of the space itself. For instance, the first element I discovered were the exterior benches that circulate the outdoor courtyard or museum that is adjacent to the main entrance. Each bench lacks flexibility by being completely fixed by being anchored the floor grade below. Its use is intended to stay without being placed elsewhere but being able to move it within the space can allow for more opportunity for community members to sit in large groups to discuss or reflect on their pre and post experience of their museum visit. Or simply for a daily area to lounge from present obligations of those that make up UO demographics of administration and students. Within interior space I was able to find a very enticing yet limiting graphic that was located on the North end of the museum that was utilized as a privacy screen placed onto two glass doors. The wall graphic itself worked well and added to the museum’s interior dynamic but the sightlines from the exterior become eliminated. So, I viewed this natural obstruction as a hostile architectural element for community members or populations that may not be able to attend the museum. Being able to provide exterior-to-interior sightlines ensures accessibility and inclusivity for all community members or marginalized populations.
(Museum of Natural and Cultural History, Window Graphic/Mural )
(Museum of Natural and Cultural History, Exterior Wooden Bench With Metal Anchor Plate)
by mlovette | May 17, 2023
The chair is one of the most complex yet prevalent design elements within a human’s everyday life. Especially, when we consider the human factors from a gender-based perspective. Jennifer Kaufmann Buhler discusses this important topic within design because there is historical analytic data that has been created and established that has been sustained to the present day throughout the 21st century. In other words, there have been notions of discrimination and marginalization connected directly to different types of design elements that are utilized in day-to-day work life, particularly in office spaces. Due to gender-based approaches being directly correlated into the design of the chair there has been a huge discrepancy between the male and female. For instance, the scale, size, aesthetic, and accents of both “types” of chairs have revealed a clear sense of hierarchy and assumption of what sort of role each gender would hold within an office space. Between these two types of chairs there has been proposed solutions of dissecting the two presumed measures of the gendered-based approach to create a chair that obtains a solution through balanced measurements allowing for a modular and flexible interior element. More importantly, the implementation of new design technology that allows the human to have the chair fit their needs based on comfort and support. Overall, we as humans have continuously suffered from the chair because of past design approaches that carried hierarchy, marginalization, and assumptions because of the type of world we lived and live in based upon our social and political life. But now within the design field there is a high sense to introduce new technologies that allow humans to recreate interior design elements through modular and flexible ergonomics.
Ergonomics and anthropometrics are two nuances within design that have resulted in a conflicted interest. Because both types of research topics are critical towards the creation of day-to-day design elements and their utilization. As an aspiring designer I’ve often found myself contemplating what types of human factors I should consider when creating a product. Everyone is different but there are also similarities within individuals based on gender and race. However, instead of limiting oneself to specific human factors there must be an awareness of how to establish measurements that can support the average human being but offers a very high sense of modularity that allows an individual to adjust and fixate the item to their specific needs. Or consider the activities connected to the product followed by making the product multifunctional to be sufficient and fulfill the needs based upon utilization. The 21st century is the perfect time to discover solutions through new technologies to create design elements that emphasize modularity and flexibility ensuring that one can leave their trace by being able to adjust a product for their personal needs. More importantly, being able to broaden the intended market of a product for all users to share and connect through mutual-based design approaches.
Furniture is an example of an interior element that can either confine or liberate space. In other words, furniture can be fixed or flexible products that either tell a dweller what to do or give the dweller the “idea of choice” on what to do. As mentioned above, furniture has been placed within our daily lives and consumer markets through implemented social hierarchies and implicit biases through different forms of human factors, specifically gender. So, I decided to seek a space that eliminates these social constructs through modular and flexible seating units that enhance accessibility and ownership. Along with enhancing collaborative and conversational dynamics due to the type of interior elements (seating units) available. The Knight Library is an example of different types of chairs from an ergonomically approach that become utilized for varied task and quantity of dwellers. There is a specific room located in the library that comes to mind when thinking about a space that becomes activated based upon the dweller’s preference through furniture. The IDEA space, which is acronym for innovate, design, educate, and aspire with this sort of title there must be modular furniture. IDEA is an exemplar of this sort of space by sustaining different types and sizes of seating units. Such as units that can be carried and rolled for individual tasks, collaborative projects, and moments of conversation. Overall, this space breaks past and present issues of furniture defining spaces based upon human factors and roles. But rather allowing for flexibility and modularity towards breaking the barrier to building bridges within all humans through the notions of seating.
(Knight Library, IDEA Space Entry Door)
(IDEA Space, Interior Space & Furniture)
by mlovette | May 10, 2023
Walter Benjamin believed that the practice of modernism within architecture held the intentions of creating dwellings of an anonymous setting for anonymous inhabitants. According to him the modernist and their new forms of architecture that allowed their design intentions to favor smoothness, transparency, and porosity. These specific intentions were to liberate a men’s dwelling from the stifling confines of the bourgeois interiors in order to open and effuse light, air, and energy for the interior spaces. Ultimately, modernism and their sustained style of design thinking would result to a classless society to come. In the history of modernist architecture, a long way in materializing the conditions that Benjamin celebrated. The ultimate example that can be seen as anonymous architecture is an act of preserving traces, and that welcomes each new inhabitant on an equal basis. In as far as modernism lived up to Benjamin’s revolutionary appeal, it did indeed provide neutral dwelling environments that intended to stimulate an egalitarian outlook and that treated each individual as basically the same. In other words, each individual is able to leave a sense of trace within the space that allows dwellers to make their own mark within a place of mutuality. However, practices of inhabitation often proved to mitigate this ideologically charged anonymity.
The notion of preserving traces is a great way to approach design for dwellings. Ensuring that one can leave their own trace or stamp within a space is critical for breaking the barrier between public and private utilization. I believe the modularity and flexibility within a space in order to accommodate different types of individuals and living situations eliminates this sense elitism. Once a dwelling reveals or appears that its use is for a specific “type” of individual there are external issues that become relevant. Such as loitering and vandalism leading to an extreme prevalence due to nuances of exclusion. However, these issues could become eliminated if a dweller is offered the balance through design. For instance, subtle moves through views and elements to create immersion for an exterior-to-interior connection. Then all individuals of the surrounding context have the opportunity to activate the space. The act of balance is critical because it creates fluidity and organic gestures that don’t marginalize by “types” of people but rather sets comfortable thresholds for different types of dwellers. There are several examples of dwellings, particularly in Eugene, Oregon that adapt to the local community and surrounding context to ensure the notion of “leaving traces” for all individuals. Along, with small decisions within exterior and interior spaces that create clear sightlines, accessible entryways, and resting areas for the community. Instead of creating enclosed and private spatial dynamics there are unbounded and public spaces that creates moments for the community to connect and immerse themselves despite their living circumstances.
Café (Espresso) Roma is local coffee shop and eatery located directly west outside the University Of Oregon. In addition, to being placed on a main road (13th ave) that circulates throughout the entire school and the city of Eugene—it’s a road that is very dense with high foot traffic from all community members. As local a shop its exterior and interior space accommodates for different types of users and activities such as daily work breaks, study areas, and casual eating at different times of the day. For instance, there is both fixed and modular furniture outside the space allowing any type of community member to decide how they want to activate the space. This design intent also flows into the interior spaces not limiting the experience with the same modular furniture. The façade also obtains large apertures for daylighting factors and clear sightlines from both the exterior and interior dwellings. These design implementations allow for a very inclusive and interactive space for all its local community members. As mentioned before, being able to break the barrier of privacy and public within a space becomes a gesture of inclusivity, especially if your daily space that is located in a city with a high volume of individuals of all levels of our housing demographic.
by mlovette | May 3, 2023
Foucault describes the Panopticon in his infamous book Discipline and Punish (1975). The Panopticon is a design approached for modern prisons that was modeled by the English philosopher Jeremy Bentham. However, Foucault expresses how modernist designers embraced this approach towards built environments as a tactic of recreating a new way of seeing and thinking when it comes to everyday dwellings. The Panopticon is an architectural figure—a specific metaphor — for modern power relations in general. As Foucault describes it, in the modern world, power circulates around us through systems of surveillance and self-discipline. We are constantly being watched, measured, and evaluated, and even when we are not, we feel as if we are, and so we conduct ourselves and discipline ourselves into behaving in particular ways. For instance, through modern design approaches and elements it ensured a sense of liberation by breaking the barriers that eliminate obstructions between the interior and exterior contexts of a built environment. Overall, Bentham’s philosophy became the pathway for modern design to establish their own way of design thinking towards buildings. While also introducing our current world to a conflicted discrepancy between one’s public and private of daily living conditions to the use technological platforms. Panopticon set how modern power dynamics were created and its effect towards the rise of the surveillance state.
Our current world is suffering from this idea of “seeing without being seen” which has resulted to individuals subconsciously accepting the notion of public life that becomes expressed in our daily choices. As mentioned before, the simple design approach of panopticon has led to our daily lives of being affected in negative way. There is an established discrepancy towards establishing a balance life that allows one to sustain both a public and private lifestyle. Although, the modernist movement of design set groundbreaking motives towards a new way of thinking and living; it has carried over into allowing the public world into our private lives too much. There is a specific tactics that are very beneficial towards a dweller and their experience, but we’ve been manipulated by new forms of technology to accept that privacy is becoming overlooked by everyone being able to show and share their private well-beings into the public realm. Unfortunately, the designing of built environments become a part of one’s life inevitably, but panopticon should only be applied towards specific building typologies while tactical approaches of the theory are dissected into elements that compliment a well-balanced environment that ensures both public and private spaces. The act of transparency obtains a conflicted interest that can be very beneficial towards a sense of liberation but also non-beneficial that can control one’s life that is controlled by the “unseen.”
A Public Institution of Private Aesthetic:
The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is an art museum located on the University of Oregon’s campus. JSMA is intended to be a built environment that is of, by, and for the public realm particularly the students and staff members of UO. However, the building itself is very uninviting due to its exterior façade—the vernacular of the material and design aesthetic imposes a private building with limited access. Especially, with being one of the largest buildings on campus made of brick cladding with no windows and very secluded entryway into the building. The building is a historical site with historical design elements attached to the building, which unveils its monotonous appearance. Due to it also being an art museum you want to have limited access of exterior daylighting factors for the sake of protecting the artwork while also being natural barrier for security purposes. But the as an educational art museum there should be intricate nuances applied to the building to ensure its mission and purpose as built environment is allowing the public realm to have accessibility, visibility, and a sense of ownership of the museum itself. Especially, as a museum that is anchored a public institution that is intended to enhance creativity, community, and collaboration within and for the surrounding context of the site.
(University of Oregon Campus – Jordan Schnitzer Musem of Art West Entrance & Facade)