There are some beautiful images of 'Natural Architecture', what I would call organic installation art, with the article/book review of Natural Architecture by Alessandro Roca on the designboom site, http://www.designboom.com/contemporary/naturalarchitecture.html . I have yet to read the book, but the article on designboom suggests that the intent of these 'natural architecture' pieces is to facilitate a transition toward a harmonious relationship between nature and man, and to explore the concept of 'designing with nature in mind'. The images of the pieces are evocative and definitely provoke a sense of wonder, but I find myself asking just how this feeling of wonder and appreciation for the natural beauty of these constructions translates into the reality of creating a more harmonious relationship between nature and man. Will the experience of these pieces actually facilitate the major attitude shift necessary to change the lifestyle choices of the average urban dweller, to help them to see the error of their ways so to speak? Call me a cynic, but I doubt it.
The article also states that these pieces are intended as a type of architectural commentary meant to invoke new ways of thinking about building and structure.In this purpose, I think the pieces are more successful. In particular, they highlight the transitory nature of building that most of us tend not to think about to much. The natural erosion and decay that is allowed to overtake the organic materials of these structures could be thought of as architectural time on fast forward. How many buildings have fallen to decay or demolition when they are no longer deemed useful or relevant? While the poignancy of this commentary is not lost, I wonder how it can be translated practically into the decision making process of architectural design.
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| Cover Image for Natural Architecture by Alessandro Rocca 2007 |
Images from the book:
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| 'weidendome' Sanfte Strukturen 2001 |
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| 'fog pad' n architects 2004 |
