Mash-up/theory

Creating the “perfect” space is an impossible, and subjective, balancing act between form and function, particularly when addressing the visual expression of the layering of history within older buildings. Additions should be sensitive yet contemporary insertions into existing settings, with scars from buildings’ former lives retained and contrasted with contemporary interventions. These new structures gain richness from the addition of new layers into the life of existing buildings, and are designed with the future life of the building in mind, to stand the test of time and remain robust. A well-designed space must also be versatile yet appropriate for its main use, and must not dictate to the individual how they should perceive, operate or feel in the building, but have the flexibility to explore and experience it for themselves. Openness to the landscape and a relationship to the outside are also vital, as occupants of the architecture can observe the activity and the natural world outside, and those outside have a glimpse of what’s happening inside. This is welcoming, open, and transparent, separated yet connected, keeping communities together. Overall, the power a building has over a person is limited. It cannot change their personal needs or circumstances, and its uses are always changing, but a deep appreciation of human character and its capacity for transformation—due to fluctuating social and economic forces—allows for an understanding of the integral role of time.

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Marmot, Daniel. “Building on the Built: the Work of Jonathan Tuckey Design.” ArchDaily (May 2016), http://www.archdaily.com/787224/exhibition-review-building-on-the-built-the-work-of-jonathan-tuckey-design-london (accessed May 17, 2016).

Davidge, Tania. “Education design that welcomes you: Michal Cohen.” ArchitectureAU (April 2016), http://architectureau.com/articles/education-design-that-welcomes-you-michal-cohen/ (accessed May 17, 2016).