Monday, June 07, 2004

this study started with an axiom that architecture is about complex system because the problem of architecture is complex in nature. This is the kind of problems that are difficult to solve are often hard to understand because the causes and effects are not obviously related [Bar-yam].

The field of study concerning this kind of problem is known as Complex Systems is a new field of science studying how parts of a system give rise to the collective behaviors of the system, and how the system interacts with its environment. [Bar-yam]

I’m looking at architecture as complex system. This is not a novel approach, as Venturi, Jencks and Lynn had tried to analyze the complex nature of architecture. Thus, I will carefully organise critical reviews using the concepts available in the complex systems.

I will then using another axiom to look at theory of configurational architecture, because within it the seed to understand architecture as not mere the part but the wholeness sowed. this axiom also derived from the fact this particular theory has been useful in the construction of analytical computer program useful in understanding the indirect effects of spatial configuration to social problems [space syntax analysis]

the basis provided within complex systems science concepts is in the building of computer models. part of the history in computing in architecture is the fascination to formalised a method for configuring spaces; the generative layout. i will devise an argumentative essay about these methods

computer models are meta-model. as any other model, it is a means to understand the problem within its context, but computer models advancing in comparison to other models because it provides visualisation of dynamic interaction between systems observed. action and reaction, cause and effect, become comprehensible and self-explanatory.