CHAPTER 4.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 104
1.5 RESEARCH METHODS AND MATERIALS .1 RESEARCH METHODS
1.4.4. DIALECTICAL METHOD
As defined in the Definition of terms, this dissertation will use a dialectical method to construct an argument for the collaboration of machine built architecture and crafted/hand made architecture, and a proposed synthesis of the two. The use of the word dialectic constitutes a dialogue by means of a logical and formulated cross-examination that will endeavour to formulate positives attained from either side of the debate to inevitably form a collaboration between the two.
1.4.5. SUMMARY
By understanding these theories and their combined effects on the built environment, a critical source could be constructed to define the condition of contemporary architecture.
These theories are considered relevant to the design of a dialectic modern handcrafted architecture in the context of South Africa. This dissertation aims to use these theories to give a broad overview of mechanical technique together with an understanding of the role of craft and the potential reflection of this process in an architectural intervention. Several of the points identified assist in shaping parallels to the key principles towards the dialectic relationship between machine built and hand made architecture. The delimitation therefore sets the manner in which the literature review in the main body of this dissertation is portrayed.
1.5 RESEARCH METHODS AND MATERIALS
Primary Sources:
The primary research requires the collection of data by the author. The data is analysed and conclusions are formed to delineate the problem statement of this dissertation – with focus on generating a dialectic architecture. The following research methods will be used in order to accumulate and formulate data for the analysis for the potential dialectic approach to architecture of South Africa. Due to the content of the research, the aim of the research methods is to have an equal amount of physical and virtual (email) data captured, by focused interviews, and case studies. Primary research carried out will form part of the qualitative data whereas the qualitative data will be obtained by visiting the relevant case studies and areas of research.
Focused interviews: These will be endeavoured to be done in person. The interviews will be concerned only with South African architects, as this dissertation strives for a critical South African response. The research hopes to achieve a basis from which both the Northern and Southern hemispheres are represented. The architects are chosen specifically for their dealings with the blending of machine and hand-made architecture. Their competence of producing quality architecture that exudes their zealous interest in the context within which they build, can be described in a similar discourse as the makings of a crafted architecture and the considered human-ness of architectural design. See Appendix A for typical questions to be asked.
Architects to interview :
Andrew Makin. Designworkshop (dws), Durban, South Africa.
Designworkshop are a practice devoted to the positive transformation of society through considered design and responsive architecture within the South African context. Dws exercise an efficient and considerate use of materials, both standard off-the-shelf or of bespoke parts, along with a handcrafted yet modern, touch. Although many projects exude properties discussed in this dissertation, some of which will be highlighted throughout the literature review; the key case study will be the Constitutional Court. The programmatics and history of the built environment will not be the forefront of the research, the idea of a handcrafted modern architecture, and the factors which help achieve this, will be explored.
Richard Stretton. Koop Architects, Durban, South Africa.
Not content on architecture alone, KOOP specializes in a conscientious design ethos within all precincts of design. From interiors to furniture and product design, the practice radiates a
sustainable approach to all of their projects. The researcher intends to investigate the process behind the architecture – exploring the methods that were ensured to keep a socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable project alive well past their involvement. The work done at Dalton reserve will form part of the case studies considered.
Case studies: This section will be focused primarily on a directly responsive architecture that explores both modern and local attributes. The buildings chosen are rooted into the context of South Africa yet display a modern, global outlook. These are further defined by the responsiveness to resources, skills, and technology available. Adapting and engaging with the particular context, the projects do not force a pastiche’ represented version of a “South African” architectural tectonic, but rather display a fundamental respect to place, society, time, and particular contextual constructs. Whilst both projects are considered to be within the constructs of a ‘Universal Civilisation’, they display the notion of a regional modern architecture, which directly responds to the peculiarities of a particular place or space. Both buildings exhibit various recipes for binding machines and people together, this dialectic approach to architecture will be the fundamental principles drawn from the studies; the notion of process driven architecture.
Secondary Sources:
This will form the majority of this dissertation and the information will be obtained by examining various media by different authors. The empirical studies gained from the above resources will form part of the literature review chapter whereby the author will construct a series of arguments for and against the problem statement. Therefore the information collected will be tested by the primary sources and data analysis. These will deal with key topics and questions, which will relate to the research problem and precedent studies. The information will be gathered by reviewing books, journal articles, and academic papers written by various authors; video / movies, television broadcasts and the World Wide Web;
raw data from precedent and case studies, interviews etc. The analysis of specific case studies will be done in Chapter Three, whereas precedent studies will be observed throughout Chapters Two, to ensure an understanding of the built environment and its relevance within the literature obtained. The analysis and data will be gathered to determine a construction of a conceptual and theoretical framework to provide a background for the relevant tools required for a dialectic collaboration facility.
Following the analysis of the research information, key international examples, and
data collection, as well as an investigation of key concepts and theories relating to the topic of a dialectic architecture, relevant architectural principles are determined and noted in the conclusions and recommendations of the study.
1.5.2 RESEARCH MATERIALS
Information gathering will refer to library and electronic resources, measurement techniques in the field of architecture, statistics, and other means of communication.
The research materials used, as references will include various media: books, journal articles, and academic papers by various authors; video / movies, television broadcasts and the World Wide Web; raw data from precedent and case studies, interviews etc. Individuals interviewed are primarily the architects of the case studies selected, but they will be questioned about relevant and theories considered within this dissertation. A variety of research materials are covered to give fair comment on the research problem. The research materials gathered are in the form of hard copies and digital copies, including images, photographs, and sketches.