Geometry is integral to architecture and
building. Its application has ranged from symbolic (golden ratio) to technical
(modular masonry) to rationalizing construction (geodesic domes) or to
organising design (orthogonal grids). Geometry and regulating lines in
architectural composition are the order by which architecture is designed,
built and studied. Modern architecture exploited repetitive geometry as a way
of rationalizing building and planning. The use of grids, shapes, prisms and
their assembly generated abstract form as modern architecture’s ornament.
In contemporary architecture, the use of
geometry is amplified by computer aided modelling. Parametric modellers are allowing
powerful and variable use of mathematics to create limitless complexity. The
accompanying computer aided manufacturing processes are boundless in their
ability to give these complex shapes life. The use of geometry in
architecture and certainly in modern and contemporary architecture relate to
the need for producing original ideas. The original idea sets
architecture apart from building. The discipline’s effort to heuristically
challenge itself is one of architecture’s greatest qualities.
In a consumer driven post World War
II economy, the need for considerable amounts of housing stimulated numerous
experiments. The link between architecture’s search for newness, its
relationship with geometry, and its objective to produce better quality housing
is illustrated in a triangular based prism experiment by
architect Justus Dahinden: TRIGON 65 clustered triangles horizontally and
vertically to produce a dynamic constellation of dwelling units.
As in canonical modern
architecture the ground plane in trigon 65 is used as a reference to correlate
and illustrate the capacity of geometric systems to adapt to varying contexts.
In the case of Trigon 65 the ground plane can be a free space or a basis for
the units. The architect used this three-sided polygon to demonstrate
its dexterity terms of views, light, comfort and constructability.
Originally planned as a steel superstructure with Glass reinforced plastic
envelope the system also allowed for interchangeable skins on its adaptable
post and beam triangular base. The triangle’s three intersecting points supported
infrastructure (mechanical conduits or structure), which produced a totally
flexible interior space. Proposed as a stackable dwelling component the TRIGON
was emblematic of late modern architecture’s obsession with
variable aggregation of cellular and modular units.
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| site plan TRIGON 65 |
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