Space, order and flexibility : kinetic solutions for adaptable dwellings

Abstract

This dissertation, a discussion of space, deliberates between architecture which is sustainable, adaptable and versatile, and buildings which are economically feasible to produce and sell. By opposing seemingly disparate architectural themes, flexibility and order, with space used as their fabric, this work reviews various authors who attempted to resolve the concept into a systematic design of housing. Kinetics is employed to varying degrees. However, the study is not related solely to construction, but rather, to the degree of power and responsibility assigned to the main stakeholders which accommodating change allows. With respect to the Maltese socioeconomic context, the client, architect, construction industry and the end user are discussed when set to creating an adaptable dwelling, or perhaps, an entire automated system wholly construed by such individualized units.