Iconic Architecture

Abstract

The ‘STAR ARCHITECTURE’ is dead, Koolhaas stated in 2014. However, our world is hooked on images, and formed by their re-production, spurred on by a culture of CONSUMPTION. As consequence, the image now is the accursed share, an inevitable waste of surplus in any culture of excess. Since long — eventually tracing back to the renaissance and the invention of perspective — architecture has become increasingly more image, to the point of being it foremost. Hence, there is a case to state, that even if ‘star architecture’ is rightfully claimed dead, it DOESN’T IMPLY the DEATH of the ICONIC. Quite opposite. In this world, defined by its image creation and consumption, the ‘iconic’ is of paramount cultural relevance. The icon can be argued being a highly effective type of image, for instance featuring a high “SIGNAL-to-NOISE ratio”, coupled with a quality of power. Thus, if the iconic is a key element for architecture’s cultural capital and currency today, why not expand our critical knowledge and projective practice to include it as a focus. Can we revisit the ICONIC CONCEPT to find new relevance, suitable for the current day? With the outset in architecture being image, design concepts has been tested, following a method of continuous translation and glitching of images. Both as metaphors and physical entities. Resulting in part superficial, part significant, translations from image to “new” architecture, and in part disclosing an iconic nature. Consequently breeding “new” or recycled imagery, and the iconic. The design speculation is set within the frame of the partly real vision of a Gothenburg metro line network. The thesis started in a dissecting reading process combined with own textual essay drafting, seeking to deconstruct ideas of “the iconic”. Architectural theory was combined with media science, semiotics, visual studies and the multi sensory. Sets of potential design principles were pinpointed. In a second phase the theoretical framework was partially expressed, aiming to EVOKE discussion and SENSATION. Including tailored scents as part of an expanded visuality of the iconic. The designs are intended to be experienced as interfaces. They may be read as a conceit and tautology of iconic architecture — as “architecturing imagery”.