An investigation on permanence within contemporary architecture

Abstract

Rooted in the Vitruvian definition ‘firmitas’, the prevalent notion of permanence has retained its efforts towards timelessness through materiality crafted to endure (Touw, 2006). Challenging the incompatibility of the established definition in the 21st century, the dissertation seeks to explore other possibilities which allow permanence to retain relevance within contemporary Western cultures. By investigating multiple typologies from different cultural backgrounds and various points in history, contrasting ideas of permanence are exposed, suggesting alternative notions towards resilience. Condensing multiple interpretations of permanence, three values are derived to describe the main components of architecture which convey durability. Material value, commemorative value and intangible value, are three value developed to formulate a theoretical framework which is used to assess different case studies. Through the examination of the three local case studies, the research suggests movement between the three values, exposing a conversation between society and its surroundings. Informed by the literature and the multiple discussions on the different case studies, the research generates an expanded view of the notion of permanence, attaining greater recognition towards the social and environmental complexities which contribute to its relevance. Providing a space for further discourse, the research concludes by proposing conditions of contemporary permanence which regulate the durability of architecture beyond its materiality.