Architectural Diversity in Contemporary Contexts The Role of Design between Time and Scale

The essay reflects on the relationship between diversity in architectural design, by observing design strategies and projects implemented in two cities, different but interesting for the actions undertaken: Milan (Italy) and Ahmedabad (India). Starting from a broader debate on the conditions in which our planet is located and, on the fragilities, and emergencies that increasingly affect cities and their inhabitants, the text tries to reflect on the design strategies necessary to act in uncertain and fragile contexts. Opening up a critical discussion focused on two key issues of the contemporary project: the ability and capacity to ‘adapt’ to events and, therefore, to be resilient and the role of ‘time’ in architecture. The first part of this text defines a critical premise with respect to the current situation and the necessity to modify strategies and projects in relation to the instability and lack of care that characterize contemporary territories. In the second part, two very different design experiences are described and analysed which, however, raise important questions about the role of architectural design in the contemporary conditions. Milan and Ahmedabad have been chosen because they could give different answers at urban and architectural scale, to the questions about the relationship between time, design and adaptation or resilience processes. Milan has chosen to show its ‘new’ image through iconic objects, creating new landmarks in the city; Ahmedabad works on the dichotomy between informality and permanence, showing how punctual and flexible projects could accommodate the needs of fragile territories, constantly evolving.

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ISBN
978-1-944214-31-9