Perpetuation through radical adaption: Imagining a million-programme modernization of a Baroque castle
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Författare
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Modellbyggare
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Sammanfattning
The point of departure was a curiosity in the polarized opinions of contrasting
architectural eras. Huge castles mostly stand empty but are seen as invaluable
material heritages, while modernist buildings are looked down upon despite being
the homes of millions. The topic is complex, but arguments often involve beauty and
modernization as each other’s opposites. The thesis aims to bring a new perspective
to the discussion, regarding buildings as material assets as well as bearers of stories–
not only stylistic representations. As climate crisis escalates, it becomes increasingly
important to appreciate all existing buildings. Using superimposition and the effects
of juxtaposition, the project explores what could happen if buildings with completely
different levels of appreciation are mixed.
Explorations are focused on two contrasting eras in the Swedish context, both in
terms of societal structures and stylistic ideals: baroque castles of the 1600’s and the
Million-programme in the late 60’s. Specifically, the project engages in a speculative
transformation of Skokloster Castle, the biggest private castle ever built in Sweden.
Planned and constructed during the Swedish Empire, it is the ultimate status marker
of a rich noble of its time, as well as a prominent piece of baroque architecture.
In contrast, Skolspåret in Gothenburg stands as the result of an architect strongly
inspired by Le Corbusier, operating during a time when new building technologies
and quality housing for all was on top of the political agenda.
The result is a proposal in which the halls of Skokloster Castle is transformed into
functional living spaces, and the floor heights are utilized to create multi-storey
apartments. The stylistic characteristics of the two architectures are maintained. The
goal of the proposal is not to turn the castle into a million program, but rather
showcase alternative views on how buildings can endure the fluctuations of time:
by adapting to them.
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Ämne/nyckelord
Adaption, Speculation, Baroque, Million programme