Techne 02 PDF
Techne 02 PDF
Techne 02 PDF
technological
beyond thedesign
crisis
FIRENZE
UNIVERSITY
PRESS SIT d A
TECHNE
Journal of Technology for Architecture and Environment
Issue 2
Year 1
Director
Roberto Palumbo
Scientific Committee
Ezio Andreta, Gabriella Caterina, Pier Angiolo Cetica,
Romano Del Nord, Stephen Emmitt, Gianfranco Dioguardi,
Paolo Felli, Rosario Giuffrè, Lorenzo Matteoli, Achim Menges
Editor in Chief
Maria Chiara Torricelli
Editorial Board
Alfonso Acocella, Andrea Campioli, Giorgio Giallocosta,
Mario Losasso, Rivka Oxman, Gabriella Peretti,
Fabrizio Schiaffonati, Ferdinando Terranova
Assistant Editors
Luigi Alini, Ernesto Antonini, Serena Viola
Editorial Assistants
Sara Benzi, Nicoletta Setola, Dario Trabucco
Graphic Design
Veronica Dal Buono
Editorial Office
c/o SITdA onlus,
Via Flaminia, 72 - 00196 Roma, Italy
Email: [email protected]
Publisher
FUP (Firenze University Press)
Phone: (0039) 055 2743051
Email: [email protected]
08 Nota
Roberto Palumbo
EDITORIALE
16 Progettazione tecnologica – Ricerca e pratica nel progetto di architettura
Maria Chiara Torricelli
RICERCA E SPERIMENTAZIONE
96 Il piano come progetto comprensivo del suo processo
Giuseppe Ridolfi
106 Archeologia industriale e periferia: due casi di progettazione tecnologica ambientale
Luciano Cupelloni
118 La progettazione tecnologica degli edifici safety critical: una ricerca applicata
Erminia Attaianese – Gabriella Duca
128 Tecnema Social Housing
Alberto De Capua
138 La ricerca e la sperimentazione sui tessili tecnici
Alessandra Zanelli
150 L’utilizzo della tecnologia e di modelli innovativi di design per la realizzazione di involucri architettonici complessi
Emily Carr
158 Innovazione per l’involucro architettonico: Smart Facade per edifici non residenziali
Marco Sala, Rosa Romano
RASSEGNE
170 Università e attività di progettazione
Ernesto Antonini
NETWORK SITdA
178 Contributi dalle Sedi Universitarie
02 2011
TECHNOLOGICAL DESIGN TECHNE
08 Note
Roberto Palumbo
EDITORIAL
16 Technological design – research and practice in the architectural project
Maria Chiara Torricelli
REVIEWS
170 Universities and planning activities
Ernesto Antonini
NETWORK SITdA
178 Contributions from the Universities
EDITORIALE/EDITORIAL
(how, who, when), so that everyone can participate and feel recognized in the proposed topics and
in the selected priorities, so that each contribution can be published according to shared criteria
[...]»
«[...] In order to develop the influence and outcomes of research, it is important to involve
practicing architects, administrators and people from the industry and building sector to contribute
to the magazine; it means organizing the magazine to be appealing to the interests both of readers
and authors.
The aim is to revive the Technological area to spread scientific knowledge, but above all to foster the
transfer of knowledge in the political, administrative and decision-making sphere. The magazine
aspires to the maximum involvement of all operators in the various phases of the design process –
from schematic design, legislation compliance, to technological buildability – in order to raise the
quality of the finished work.
In so doing, we hope to act as a service to the Nation and to help overcome the obstacles currently
preventing a proper connection between the reality of production and the needs of the community
[...]»
This is taken from the presentation by Paolo Felli, who should be thanked for having founded the
Journal with passion and directed it with intelligence during his time as Chairman of SITdA.
We plan to continue with the same objectives: in fact we shall try, through experiences that we will
gradually acquire together, to better accentuate the underlying logic of what has been stated above.
a) The laborious process of implementing the «Gelmini law» is posing complex problems in all
Departments; the extensive, and perhaps even excessive, diversity and breakdown of the solutions
adopted are creating a highly fragmented framework, with more shadows than light.
There is a need to restore unitarity.
The creation of SITdA in 2007 was defined as an «inspired idea»; this is not quite exact: at that time no
one could intuit what it foreshadowed. It would be better to say a «successful anticipation» since it has
now become an objective «necessity» to have a tool with which to adequately interpret a reality whose
characteristics are constantly changing; a tool that makes it possible, through a mutual exchange of
experiences between the various universities (and the various members), to identify an ‘Ariadne's thread’ in
order to reconstruct a ‘framework’ with which to address the initiatives to be undertaken and the solutions
to be pursued.
The specificity of the contexts within which each individual university operates and the particular
educational and scientific policies they pursue, may represent, on account of their very diversity, an
essential added value to be used in all other universities.
An added value for rediscovering and consolidating the identity, specificity and recognizability of the
‘characteristics’ of the technological area.
Hence the importance of ‘knowing’ about each individual situation: hence the need, and the commitment,
to interpret SITdA as an ‘ensemble’ of members and universities certainly not structured as a ‘pyramid’ but
‘horizontally’ across the territory, with more effective decision-making roles, attempting to create synergy –
from time to time and on certain specific issues – through common initiatives that involve more members
and/or more universities.
A network structure, in fact.
This is the basis for SITdA's policy and coordination role and the need for TECHNE and the website
(blog, news) to constitute its necessary tools: to inform the outside of initiatives undertaken by SITdA and
observations made internally through comparison with scholars from other disciplines, even those not
concerning technology; at the same time, if not primarily, to inform those within it and those outside it of
the specific characteristics of each university and the individual experiences of each member.
In short: effective communication tools.
In this issue, even more approximately due to limited editorial time, TECHNE provides space for each
individual university (and each individual member); the organizational suggestions and proposals received
(format, size, theme, etc.), if widely accepted, will be put into effect in the next issue; there will be similar
consideration for possible sections (observatory, reviews, focus, etc.).
At present TECHNE comes out every six months; it is quite clear that certain aspects of some themes
should instead be disclosed and discussed ‘in real time’ in order to act promptly and effectively: the SITdA
website (blog, news), in addition to meeting the ‘immediacy’ requirement, ensures a constant comparison
between all members without distinction; as we approach the release of TECHNE the most important
documents (even if they contrast with each other) shall go into the journal for more effective dissemination,
even internationally.
It is only a question of organization: each university has been asked to appoint a contact for relations
with SITdA and one for the communication tools; the goal is to speed up the flow of information but not
exclude direct dialogue with each individual member.
b) The willingness to contribute, along with the institutions, to solving the country's problems, the
commitment to transfer research results in order to support Public Administrations and private enterprises,
the need to innovate by working and experimenting closely with businesses and component manufacturers,
represent just a few of SITdA's objectives for dealing with the demands of civil society.
In other words, leave the strictly academic areas (perhaps badly interpreted).
Moreover, working on ‘order’ means acquiring further much needed resources to complement those that
are now largely insufficient.
Hence the ability to identify the critical issues to be resolved and the parties (public and/or private)
interested in their solution; hence the need to make the outside aware of SITdA's potential and its know-
how. A service for all the universities.
Participation in MADEexpo – an ever-expanding European stage – made it possible for the Society to
become part of a list of around 70 associations of sector professionals: an appointment which SITdA should
not miss in October 2012, taking advantage of the occasion to organize its annual meeting there.
The final figures of MADEexpo (+ 4.7% visitors, + 34% foreigners, 1950 exhibitors), the outcomes of
ANCE's annual meeting in September, the stance of the National Association of Italian Municipalities, the
9th day of research and innovation by Confindustria, all paint a clear picture: they confirm at the same time
the urgency of ensuring, in the Board of Directors of SITdA and the Editorial Committee of TECHNE, a
timely comparison on the greatest efficiency of the initiatives underway.
Thus welcoming other figures with different skills – not academic – within them.
c) What issues should the efforts concentrate on:
Management of the construction process, product and process innovation, social housing (specifically student
accommodation) and environmental sustainability are just some of the areas in which each individual
university has been acquiring significant direct experiences for years.
Besides these, specifically in order to collaborate to resolve immediate critical issues, SITdA is working
on the complex issue of the development and conveyance of public property assets which, in even more
significant terms, is to seize upon specific local features.
If development is also understood to include the redevelopment of the building fabric further ways of
working open up, for example the relationship between technology and design in the redesigning of urban
spaces and that of the partnership between public and private ventures.
The specificity of the theme and the expertise required (from town planning to economic, from
sustainability to recovery technologies) make specific workshops organized locally of extreme interest in
the upcoming months, disseminating the results through the blog also in order to rediscover synergies
with other universities; at the end of the course the results will be merged at a national conference with the
presentation of a «dossier» published in TECHNE issue no. 3, perhaps double and certainly printed.
d) All this would effectively enable SITdA to exchange views with the institutions and the manufacturing
sector: at a time however when common goals and the resulting synergies can be found for example with
the Public Administrations, ANCE, Confindustria, OO.SS, ANCI, and the Regions.
One might almost wonder whether, even by changing the Statute, SITdA could not explicitly take on a role
with greater impact beyond the limitations currently imposed.
Since it does not pursue profit-making goals and its purpose is research, development, training,
consultancy and technology transfer in the area of the production of services pertaining to architecture
and engineering, SITdA could, especially by calling on the various universities to work together, apply the
results of their most skilled research to real cases collaborating with the Public Administrations within
the framework of cooperation agreements; it could promote new high-profile activities in science and
technology and prepare the common organization of the means necessary to propose and achieve research
and development activities with reference to strategic regional and national guidelines and areas.
e) A final consideration: internationalization.
A meeting on this theme was held at MIUR (Ministry of Education, Universities and Research), with Dr
Mario Alì, Director-General for the Internationalization of Research: the role and objectives of SITdA were
explained and the following questions were asked:
Roberto Palumbo In short this is the profile of SITdA: do you think it could play a role under the policy that
MIUR is implementing?
Marco Alì By all means, MIUR sees all activities associated with science and technology as positive efforts,
which are moving in the right direction towards cohesion, both nationally and internationally. Cohesion
strongly reminds us of the renewed strategy Europa2020, designed to ensure European citizens «intelligent,
sustainable and socially inclusive» growth. In my mind there is no doubt, especially as regards future
challenges concerning the sustainable management of cities and the territory, that SITdA – the Italian
Society of Architecture Technology – can play an interesting role, particularly in supporting MIUR's policy
activities on major issues currently debated at European level for the future of European research.
In fact with respect to this remember that the Directorate-General for the Internationalization of Research
directed by me, is currently conducting, at both national and international level, the negotiation process on
the European Union's future funding programme for research and innovation, called Horizon2020 – the
Framework Programme for Research and Innovation. This programme, which will start in 2014, will have
an estimated value in the EU budget of around 80 billion euros, and it is the only item in the budget to have
undergone a real substantial increase, reflecting the fundamental role that research and innovation are
acknowledged to play as boosters for the development of the European system.
Roberto Palumbo With a ‘network’ organization can SITdA cooperate with similar foreign organizations?
Would MIUR facilitate initiatives to this effect?
Marco Alì I believe that any activity that encourages international cooperation in sectors pertaining to
scientific and technological research is crucial at this time. The current global economic crisis requires
coordinated and intelligent responses to propose actions for the relaunch of the Italian research system
within the European and global context. It therefore involves not only promoting exchanges and
information with similar realities in international research, but also opening up the internal market of
Italian research as much as possible to positive contaminations that enrich the country and offer our young
people greater opportunities to contribute to the action essential to complete the European Research Area.
But once again the watchword must be cohesion. Any action on a macro-scale must be coordinated and
shared with the steering bodies, which is precisely what MIUR is, which while respecting the independence
of the research has a duty to direct the strategic actions and at the same time bring instances of Italian
research to the appropriate international forums, to give them more power and effectiveness. Thus it calls
for the maximum communication and sharing of intentions and goals.
Roberto Palumbo Is it possible to find points of contact with the activities of the Directorate-General for the
Internationalization of Research and would it be possible to identify desirable initiatives to be pursued in a
coordinated way?
Marco Alì European research, both in the closing phase of the 7th Framework Programme and in view
of the future programme of European research for after 2013, is currently moving along some lines which
I think are particularly interesting for your association. I am specifically referring to the process of joint
programming initiatives of research (JPIs), in particular three of these initiatives are particularly close to
issues relevant to SITdA, namely: Agriculture, food security and climate change, Cultural heritage & global
change and naturally Urban Europe. As is evident, on all these issues there should be the utmost attention
from the world of technological programming, and I am delighted to extend my willingness as the Ministry
to promote collaboration to improve national participation in these initiatives, and to plan the future
strategies of Italian research in the context of Horizon2020.
To conclude this note: use the instruments available to SITdA (and/or that it may have) together, to the
best effect and with the appropriate urgency, thus substantiating, in terms of service to the universities and
members, what has been defined as «successful anticipation».
Technological design – Research This second issue of TECHNE aims to converge points of view and the
and practice in the architectural results of research and experience on a common theme, which is important
both scientifically and in terms of practices and social impacts: the theme of
project technological design in the architectural project.
throughout their entire life cycle; logical processes concerning decisions aimed at
planning organizational structures and actions during the life cycle of the project
and the works, starting with the available resources (financial, human, information,
time etc.). Insofar as referring to design, the imaginative, meaningful and value-
based aspects (De Fusco, 1981), as well as performance-based (Maggi, 1994) and
operational (Zaffagnini, 1981) aspects all fully share the processual nature of design
in architecture. Anthropological studies of design encourage us not to classify
design into logical or intuitive activities, or into rationality or creativity; even in its
performance-based (aimed at responding to demands and objectives) or operational
(aimed at planning actions) aspects, design always represents, for individuals as
much as for the community and the collective, anticipation of a ‘future’ that is
sought, feasible and desired (Boutinet, 1990). All the more reason why design is not,
or shouldn’t be, a solely technical activity, or it risks losing its ability to innovate:
«Consolidating the moment of production and inventive innovation […] cannot
be reduced to the sole application of conventional techniques. Design requires a
technique that is achieved by representing the imaginary» (Vittoria, 1995). It is not
an exclusively technical activity, even when it abandons conventional techniques and
makes reference to innovative technologies, whether they be design or construction
related, as it is design that modulates their use so that they are made in order to
«live», «neothesis» for which our brain, body (Toraldo di Francia, 2004), cultures
and societies must be ready.
If by «design» we denote an imaginative, creative, logical, performative,
performance-based and operational process, based on decisions and relative
communication techniques, the term «project» now increasingly points to a system
of actions and operators located at different stages – subsequent or integrated –
in time and space in the process of creating a work, its construction, operation,
maintenance and disposal. The design process is increasingly developed along
these phases, with different levels of participation in the transformation of the built
environment (Habraken, 1986).
If the interpretative framework outlined is acceptable, does it make sense today to
talk about technological design as a distinct area in the architectural project? What
responsibilities and expertise (knowledge and skills) are covered by the definition
of «technological»? We thought it important to ask the authors of TECHNE issue
no. 2 to reflect on this theme, not only because of its relevance in academic terms
as part of the reformulation of the Disciplinary Scientific Areas in Italy (MIUR,
2011), but also because we believe that design complexity requires a global, holistic
vision, the result of integration and collaboration between knowledge and roles,
rather than
a generalist approach and demiurgic behaviours.
Technological design has traditionally been understood as located at the pivotal
point between the ideation, conception of the work and its construction, but
the contemporary context in which the project is conceived and acts no longer
accepts these sequential and separate visions, nor are technologies in architecture
exclusively material. A designer with technological expertise can operate at
different levels of the project, working in multi-disciplinary areas depending on
his or her abilities and experience, within building, management, environmental,
information and communication, and digital technologies etc. What is the common
basis of this set of skills and knowledge aimed at the architectural project? In its
evolution according to disciplinary statutes and design practice, technological
design now shares some approaches that are also common to other areas of Design
Sciences. These approaches primarily refer to two paradigms:
– the inclusion of verifiability and evaluability in the design process;
– systemic thinking to manage complexity and uncertainty, attention to local and
global aspects, with the notion of an open system that is self-regulating.
Some of the contributions in this issue provide suggestions and points for
general reflection on the current role of technological design. Specifically,
Giallocosta focuses on the relation between ideation and the implementation
potential of architecture, new industrial production methods and ITCs, as
well as on the relation between the design and vision of the life cycle and the
relation between architecture and social systems. Peretti traces the evolution
of the subject and warns of the risk of the deformation of design processes
brought about by specialist views and the absence of director roles. Emmitt,
reporting on the unique British experience of the training and professional
role of Architectural Technologists, proposes the emerging ‘technological’
responsibilities of the present-day project: the theme of limited resources,
the preservation of local cultures and control of the social and technological
relations between humans and the built environment, and places these
responsibilities in a collaborative vision of design. Schiaffonati approaches
the issue in terms of the role of research for and in the project, with
designing in the university context operating at the level of ‘pre-competitive
development’, and technological design which assumes a meaningful role in
the contemporary world, as a critical conscience in regard to technologies.
On the topic of design research in the university context, both as regards its
scientific value and its relevance in relation to the institutional missions of
universities, Losasso provides a detailed study focusing on theoretical issues,
university policies and the evaluation of research, including questions that
he himself put to Bonaccorsi. Bonaccorsi addresses the complex issue of the
distinction between what is assessed in the project as a scientific product and
what lies outside this evaluation. The theme of design as a practice in which
the University can be involved provides the basis for an open debate in the
Journal between design training needs, research activities implemented by
designing and demands arising from the contexts in which the University
operates. In addition to those authors that have already been mentioned, Mecca
and, in ‘Review’, Antonini with the reconstruction of the legal framework and
consultations that have accompanied it in the national arena in recent years,
also get involved in this topic. Raiteri provides a stimulating approach to
the theme of education in architectural design and, with respect to changes
in design practices and changes in learning conditions, proposes adopting
complex approaches to simple issues, so that students learn to work in terms
of complexity, experimenting with real project conditions. The simplicity of
systems and the complexity of skills is the theme proposed by Menges, who
presents experiences of design research on the computational form generation,
implemented in a process aimed at sustainability, adopting criteria concerning
progressive differentiation, heterogeneity and the robustness of the system, the
result of the interrelation of material, form, structure and environment.
These themes are reflected in articles that present the results of research for
and in technological design. Ridolfi proposes the notion of ‘plan’ as a
progressive and open «comprehensive Act», so as not to preclude an effective
reformulation of the objectives and more appropriate ways of meeting the
changing needs, indicating this as a distinctive action of technological design.
Carr provides
an interesting contribution on the theme of technological design as
a collaborative approach, with the experiences of Permasteelisa and the
conditions under which creativity and innovative thinking develop. University
research on textile materials is also placed in this area, which Zanelli writes
about, emphasizing the contribution that it is capable of providing «with
‘constructive imagination’ and ‘non-routine skills’, encouraging cooperation».
The new challenges of technological design are found in the design research
referred to in the articles by Cuppelloni and by Attaniese and Duca, focusing
Architectural Technology Abstract. At least three fundamental aspects of the many singular technological approa-
ches to architectural planning are currently evolving significantly and are ripe for potential
and Technological Planning development. The first relates to enhanced opportunities for defining the ex-ante characte-
ristics and performance of building products and components, but particularly concerns
potential leadership assumptions in planning and the ‘reification’ of architecture through
‘collective’ behaviours. The second relates to the tendency to try and overcome the conno-
tation of architectural projects, inclusive of their entire life cycle. The third relates to current
evolutionary developments (either potential or simply implicit) in performance approach.
Key words: Architectural Technology, Methodology, Innovation
− advance management planning with in synergy with these assumptions2. (in this context), the innovative import
regard to the new situations thus produced Consistent with the basic backgrounds of which is already widely recognised
− identifying and managing the dynamics of building processes and especially and shared:
generated in various different spheres with current conceptual developments − new manufacturing methods (and
(economic, social, etc. ) and on various and their particular fields of application building component manufacturing
levels and scales (settlement systems, big (non-linearity, management of complex in particular, despite the delays and
areas, etc.) projects, etc.), Architectural Technology limitations that sometimes arise)3,
− the values attributed to the relationship operates by constantly updating those − greater diffusion of and major
between ‘memories’ and the need for ‘roots’ most characteristic of the developments in applications and,
change discipline: especially those relating to especially, information technology
− managing the often crucial, emerging the strictly ex-ante relationship between models and platforms (and Information
links with information technology, etc. technology and project, and therefore and Communication Technologym –
Naturally, in this case as well, we are between the formulation and potential ICT).
dealing with significantly interconnected execution of the architecture (in regard, As is now clear, these innovative
aspects (with each other, first and therefore, to its being completed scenarios trigger just as many potential
last), in which cross-disciplinary input according to clearly defined strategies). developments in architectural planning,
converges. Equally, however, Architectural Relatively recent opportunities, and in the ‘heuristics’ of planning itself.
Technological disciplines process attributable to ‘endogenous’ input and The most significant current building
implications according to their own basic contributions to the discipline itself, sector manufacturing techniques or
assumptions (technological innovation, inform the definition of new declensions techniques borrowed from other sectors,
systematic approach, etc.) and develop of this relationship; these opportunities not to mention the potential applications
theoretical/methodological and operational include the ongoing development on two for ‘intelligent’, nanostructural materials,
connotations, sometimes particularly interesting operational fronts etc., as well as the innovative use of
traditional materials, the constant where the former would appear to in planning activities, dictated by the
perfecting of current production include significant developments in opportunities offered by ICT platforms
organisation models (just in time, lean planning activities, thus prefiguring the and up-to-date models (and predictable
production, and so on), etc., actually nature of the latter (in terms of both developments) as well as by the optimal
create a great many new technological product performance and morphology, interactions between the innovative
options, used to define the ex ante physical-chemical characteristics trends described above, also impacts on
characteristics and performance of certain etc.). There is widespread awareness, the potential reworking of formulary and
products and building components, moreover, of the positive impact of decisional (as well as ‘heuristic’) processes
thus informing their development4. progress in information and telematic in architectural planning. Advanced
However, scenarios of this kind cannot technologies on planning activities: these interoperability, or collaborative design,
be ascribed to a sort of new artisanship, range from ‘pioneering’ assumptions experiments suggest that excellent
that persists in current innovative of their operational effectiveness and integration can be sparked between the
trends, characteristics and industrial developments in the cooperative potential various inputs and operators involved
production methods (interchangeability, of team-work in relation to planning, during the creative, operational and
productive economies, routine operating to actual availability and, especially, decisional planning stages, triggering
organisation methods, etc.) although to ‘recent’ developments in enhanced, ‘collective’ behaviours (more effective
progress has definitely been made. implementational dialogical capacity than an optimisation of the general
It is rather a question, in relation to and timeliness models based on expert concept of team-work)6. In this sense
opportunities/need for conceptual knowledge, data-bases, management and «(…)
redefinitions, of spheres of evolution decision-making processes (building a planning and building culture tends
that confirm the tendential obsolescence information model, interoperability, to be generated, the strong point of
of the ‘traditional’ dualism between etc.)5. which is what tends to be referred to in
‘procedural’ and ‘product’ innovations, Certainly the tremendous evolution sociological and anthropological research
as ‘collective intelligence’ (…)» (Campioli, have sparked and influenced by major (and architectural management),
2011), or ‘connective intelligence’7capable, studies and research into Architectural studies and research into the field of
in other words, of maximising the overall Technology, focusing on management maintenance have also had considerable
integrations of skills and contributions to and maintenance issues at various levels. impact on operational, theoretical
the project in a holistic sense, in order to Their importance, which has been widely and methodological developments
draw up leadership roles in the planning acclaimed, is indubitably affirmed by in technological planning. With the
and ‘reification’ of architecture. the idealistic antecedents in Sir Thomas introduction of the framework law on
‘Knowing how to manage’ and best More’s Utopia; the second Book says: public works (again excluding relevant
utilise the innovations deriving from «(…) But among the Utopians all things studies and applications of potential
these evolutionary developments is are so regulated that men very seldom interest in terms of urban maintenance),
paramount. In formal systems, for build upon a new piece of ground; and maintainability issues, especially where
instance, up-to-date information are not only very quick in repairing construction organisations are concerned,
technology models (and their likely their houses, but show their foresight determine significant architectural
evolution) can feed a risk of determinism in preventing their decay: so that their planning developments and ‘extensions,’
(Arlati and Giallocosta, 2009) that buildings are preserved very long, with which may also herald further
can lead in turn to the thwarting or but little labour, and thus the builders developments.
malfunction of the evolutionary use of to whom that care belongs are often In fact, the latter (architectural planning)
technological planning in architecture without employment, except the hewing is already «(…) a global and interactive
(and architectural planning tout court), of timber and the squaring of stones, process that (…) demands careful
in regard to all the previously-mentioned that the materials may be in readiness for assessment of the entire life cycle of an
aspects (and those yet to be discussed)8. raising a building very suddenly when edifice up to its dismantling and recycling
For years, conceptual (and ‘broad’) there is any occasion for it»9. Along with (…)» (Felli, 2011). But maintainability
developments in building processes studies and research into management issues tie in with production,
management and maintenance issues that men very seldom build upon a new two drivers. The first concerns the need/
and, where they dovetail with more recent piece of ground; and are not only very opportunity for further development
and innovative experiences, especially quick in repairing their houses, but of the performance approach as against
in relation to flexibility of use and show their foresight in preventing their dynamics that clearly take account of
(potential) diversity of uses, as in major decay»10. cultural, axiological, mnemonic factors,
contributions to architectural planning, Morris’s description of the relationship etc., (cf., for example, Di Battista, 2006).
tend to override the (conceptual and between architecture and its users, is The second explores the ways in which
operational) meaning of ‘planning’ that extremely pertinent: architecture is «(…) implicit needs are made manifest (as
still subsist: from the resources utilised the set of modifications and alterations related to architecture, obviously), as
to the built work, to its entire life cycle made in the earth’s surface in order to distinct from as-yet unperceived factors,
(Torricelli, 2011). meet human needs (…)»11. Equally, it thus highlighting the interdisciplinary
In this sense ‘project planning’ with is clear the Architectural Technology approach to problems (social psychology,
the ‘indubitably axiomatic’ input disciplines bring greater meaning to the cognitive sciences, etc.).
of Architectural Technology (or conscious contribution architectural In the first case, given its specificity
‘technological planning’), internalises planning has to make, interpreting of approach to planning, Architectural
the concept of ‘ongoing improvement’ the relationship mostly in a needs/ Technology promotes established
(typical of the theory of quality) and performance mindset. interface with the other planning
thus renders the ‘thus far’ inevitable The pertinent evolutions, which are disciplines. As well as providing concrete
malfunction between the development sometimes manifestations of a growing methods of creating architecture and
dynamics of the exigential systems awareness of the many, complex meanings satisfying functional needs (as well
and the services on offer less likely. of the links between architecture and as optimising ‘consumer’ value), this
Thus, therefore (and to some extent, social systems, and are sometimes clearly interface impacts on (and also makes
reductively): «all things are so regulated trend-based, are basically triggered by sense of) parameters of a symbolic,
semantic nature, etc. Thus the scenarios (and, equally, to respond to ethics at the very least.
technological disciplines (particularly as explicit social expectations), satisfying
they are currently understood) interpret implicit needs, which by their very *To Marida
the human needs that inform the «set of nature are even less formally expressed,
modifications and alterations made in the «(…) tends to modify these scenarios NOTES
earth’s surface»12, in a ‘broad’ sense, and by anticipating cultural models (with 1
The term ‘ ‘virtual’, ‘according
develop what ‘has already been affirmed new signs and new meanings) and the meaning attributed to it by St.
by the Masters of our Trade’ à propos satisfying future needs (…)» (Di Battista, Thomas Acquinas and other scholarly
‘the formal and expressive innovation’ Giallocosta and Minati, 2010). This philosophers, implies that there is a
of architecture (Felli, 2011) accordingly. can then lead to creative ‘excess’ in particular purpose for every architectural
Thus, given its specificity of approach, architectural planning, and in relation to project, consistent with the definition of
Architectural Technology cannot impinge ‘endogenous paradigms’ in technological the potentiality of the work according to
adversely on planning and on the disciplines. its various connotations. This purpose
‘paradigms’ therein. However, anticipating implicit needs therefore, according the scholarly
In the second case, while clearly linked naturally presupposes that these will then meaning above, consists of the reason
with the first, there is a trend towards be interpreted, which could generate a why an effect can ‘ ‘virtually’ ‘exist (the
satisfying as-yet unperceived needs, risk of unacceptable interference with potential concretisation achieved by every
even as people are being made aware of the dynamics of needs-based systems: architectural venture, for our purposes),
these same needs (architecture’s ‘public’, alterations, induced needs, etc. Measures where the nature of the latter is not
therefore). Thus, if satisfying explicit geared to containing risks of this sort, already contained in the former (cf., for
needs (by ‘tautologically’ diachronic therefore, demand the subsistence example, Minati and Pessa, 2006).
means, in relation to their onset) implies of an optimal relationship between 2
These assumptions include performance-
aiming ‘simply’ to improve established technological planning and planning based approaches, an interesting topic,
*A Marida
NOTE
1
Il termine ‘virtuale’, riprendendo il significato attribuitogli da San Tom-
maso d’Aquino e da altri filosofi scolastici, vuole esprimere una finalità pre-
cipua di ogni progetto di architettura, consistente nella definizione delle
potenzialità dell’opera secondo sue diverse connotazioni. Tale finalità costi-
tuisce pertanto, nell’accezione scolastica a cui si è accennato, la causa in cui
è ‘virtualmente’ presente un effetto (la possibile concretizzazione compiuta
di ogni episodio architettonico, per quanto qui interessa), laddove la natura
del secondo non sia pur già contenuta nella prima (cfr., per esempio, Minati
e Pessa, 2006).
2
Fra tali assunti, l’approccio prestazionale costituisce tematica di un certo
interesse, e presente nei saggi di altri autori per questo numero di TECHNE.
3
Cfr. Davidson, 2002.
4
Sintomatico è il caso dei materiali compositi. Ciò che li distingue da «(...)
altre tecnologie consiste (...) nella possibilità di essere progettati e ottimiz-
zati in base alle richieste del mercato in quanto presentano parametri di
adattabilità elevatissimi. Il fatto che prodotti e semilavorati in FRP siano
programmabili per i customer requirements apre un panorama molto sti-
molante per l’elaborazione progettuale, soprattutto per quanto si verifica
nelle industrie fornitrici, perché, al loro interno, la tecnologia si affina con-
tinuamente in un prodotto che, pur essendo spiccatamente industriale, può
facilmente modificare le proprie prestazioni» (Toni, 2005).
5
Cfr., fra gli altri: Arlati e Giallocosta, 2009; Carrara, Fioravanti e Kalay (a
cura di), 2009; Eastman, Teicholz, Sacks e Liston, 2010. Cfr. anche, circa
alcuni brevi cenni sulle modalità di interoperabilità tecnica, semantica e
politica: Marescotti, 2006.
6
Qui possono intendersi, per comportamenti da ‘essere collettivo’, quelli
propriamente di tipo olistico, ascrivibili a esiti e dinamiche di interazioni
also covered by other authors in this and political interoperability modalities: what could be described as ‘collective
edition of TECHNE. Marescotti, 2006. intelligence’ is that, unlike what tends
3
Cf. Davidson, 2002. 6
In this case, ‘collective’ behaviours may to happen in the latter, each individual
4
Composite materials are a case in point. refer to holistic behaviours, ascribable to or group maintains their own identity
What distinguishes them from «(...) other outcomes and dynamics of interactions within what is an extremely articulated
technologies is (...) the fact that they can between autonomous agents who at and extensive network of connections
be designed and optimised on the basis least share a ‘common set of behavioural (Tagliagambe, 2007).
of market demand, given their strong microregulations’ (Minati and Pessa, 8
Cf., more generally (on formal
adaptability criteria. The fact that FRP 2006). systems and connotations of artificial
products and semi-finished products can 7
Forms of ‘intelligence’ attributable intelligence): Hofstadter, 1979; Penrose,
be tailored to customer requirements opens to ‘collective beings’ can be defined 1989, in Penrose, R. (2004), La mente
up extremely stimulating opportunities in relation to their ‘problem-solving nuova dell’imperatore, BUR, Milano,
in terms of project planning, especially for abilities’, unlike the ‘inability’ of individual I.. Cf., on technological determinism
the supply industries, because technology agents (cf. also Minati and Pessa, and technological proxy: Butera, 1998;
is constantly refining products whose 2006). Unlike ‘collective’ intelligence, Dioguardi, 2005.
performance can easily be modified, ‘connective’ intelligence can, according 9
Moro, T. (1516?), in Moro, T. (1996),
despite their conspicuously industrial to De Kerckhove, mean (…) a form of L’Utopia, Laterza, Bari, I.
nature» (Toni, 2005). connection and collaboration between 10
Ibidem.
5
Cf., among others: Arlati and different individuals and groups of 11
Morris, W. (1881), in Morris, W.
Giallocosta, 2009; Carrara, Fioravanti and individuals that stems from a reciprocal (1947), “The Prospects of Architecture
Kalay (ed. by), 2009; Eastman, Teicholz, relationship built on the basis of dialogic in Civilization”, in On Art and Socialism,
Sacks and Liston, 2010. See also, for some exchange. The most characteristic aspect Londra, cit. in Benevolo, 1992.
brief remarks on technical, semantic of this, which distinguishes it from 12
Ibidem.
REFERENCES
Arlati, E. e Giallocosta G. (2009), “Questions of Method on Interoperability in Architecture”, in Minati, G.,
Abram, M. e Pessa, E. (Ed.), Processes of Emergence of Systems and Systemic Properties, World Scientific, Singapore.
Benevolo, L. (1992), Storia dell’architettura moderna, Laterza, Bari, I.
Butera, F. (1998), Sviluppo tecnologico e disoccupazione, Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, Roma, I.
Campioli, A. (2011), “Qualità dell’architettura: innovazione, ricerca tecnologica e progetto”, in TECHNE, No. 1, pp. 62-69
Carrara, G., Fioravanti, A. e Kalay, Y. E. (Ed.) (2009), Collaborative Working Environments for Architectural Design,
Palombi, Roma, I.
Davidson, C. H. (2002), “Tra ricerca e pratica; il trasferimento di tecnologia, l’osservatorio tecnologico e l’innovazione”,
in Sinopoli, N. e Tatano, V. (Ed.), Sulle tracce dell’innovazione, Angeli, Milano, I.
Di Battista, V. (2006), “Relazioni lineari e non lineari nel progetto di architettura”, in Di Battista, V., Giallocosta, G. e
Minati, G. (Ed.), Architettura e Approccio Sistemico, Polimetrica, Monza, I.
Di Battista, V., Giallocosta, G. e Minati, G. (2010), “L’auto-architettura nei sistemi sociali”, in Capone, P. (Ed.), Ricerche
ISTeA verso una edilizia “ragionevole”, Medicea, Firenze, I.
Dioguardi, G. (2005), I sistemi organizzativi, Mondadori, Milano, I.
Eastman, C., Teicholz, P., Sacks, R. e Liston, K. (2010), BIM Handbook, John Wiley & Sons, New Jersey.
Felli, P. (2011), “Una rivista scientifica per un progetto innovativo”, in TECHNE, No. 1, pp. 8-11.
Hofstadter, D. R. (1979), in Hofstadter, D.R. (2009), Gödel, Escher, Bach: un’Eterna Ghirlanda Brillante, Adelphi, Milano.
Lauria, M. e Giglio, F. (2011), “Progetto e produzione dell’architettura oltre la regola dell’arte”, TECHNE, No. 1, pp.124-
129.
Losasso M. (2010), Percorsi dell’innovazione, CLEAN, Napoli.
Marescotti, L. (2006), in Di Battista, V., Giallocosta, G. e Minati, G. (Ed.), Architettura e Approccio Sistemico, Polimetrica,
Monza, I.
Minati, G. e Pessa, E. (2006), Collective Beings, Springer, New York.
Moro, T. (1516?), in Moro, T. (1996), L’Utopia, Laterza, Bari, I.
Morris, W. (1881), in Morris, W. (1947), “The Prospects of Architecture in Civilization”, in On Art and Socialism, Londra.
Penrose, R. (2004), La mente nuova dell’imperatore, BUR, Milano, I.
Tagliagambe, S. (2007), “L’epistemologia del progetto come cultura della complessità”, in Bertoldini M. (Ed.), La cultura
politecnica 2, Mondadori, Milano, I.
Toni, M. (2005), FRP Architettura, Alinea, Firenze, I.
Torricelli, M. C. (2011), “Oltre la crisi. L’ottimismo della ricerca”, TECHNE, No. 1, pp. 12-17.
Technology architecture: the Abstract. The author proposes a reflection on the evolution and possible future deve-
lopments of Architectural Technology as an academic discipline, in light of its historical roots,
discipline for the future definition through a path that sees it divided into different areas of specialized knowledge, all heavily
characterized by attention to the methodological aspects in the project. Faced with potential
of a manifesto developments, the author identifies two alternatives: one aimed at consolidating specialized
aspects according to a plural vision of technologies, the other aimed at reconstructing a uni-
que integrated discipline. The author takes the second direction, proposing to guide Archi-
tectural Technology, in research and training, towards the construction of generalized skills,
albeit with controlled specificities, that support the project’s capacity to direct.
Key words: Architectural technology, Academic discipline, Abilities, Project
the specific weather and basic conditions After a huge research and found the characterizing modules may have been
are our strict teachers; the instruments universal outline of the history of the hypothetical Architectural Technology
are the available materials, the tools and instrumentation (practical, poetic, discipline in the past centuries.
hands of the «man the maker», conceptual theoretical, conceptual, virtual, systemic, The first concept that comes to mind is a
constraints are, economics, culture, operational, procedural, environmental, figure similar to an explosion. The matter
memory... the Genius Loci. energy, sustainable, etc..) of designing and expands, it enriches with contents, and it
It is also likely that, in different forms construction, we could probably have also integrates with many disciplines, practices
from the specific theoretical title History an astonishing surprise. No wanted to be and knowledge, throughout time and
of Technology Architecture and disciplines disrespectful to history, we will find that places of the planet, people, nations and
relates to this in the last 10,000 years, the the useful pages for our economic needs cultures.
work that we imagine has already been are most likely the last. The last few pages From father who teaches his son how to
written, dispersed in thousands of essays firstly read and understood of the huge use, first the straw, branches, leaves, mud
and treatises scattered in hundreds libraries historical culture acquired, they would and then stones, how to shape them,
and dozens of electronic gigabytes storage: be different from the same pages read laying down, tie them up, to the great
should only be reorganized according to without that important ideological and builders of bridges, roads, aqueducts, and
our need and draw the continuation of cultural conditions. temples. From carpenter who teaches his
the historical path in the next 10, 20 or Let’s therefore imagine to be in the assistant and his team, how to treat the
30 years. The years for which the current perspective of the Great History, we try wood, cut, shape, assemble them, jam
generation of technologists and teachers to summarize into a synthetic intuition and link them up to the manufacturer of
will be responsible for managing the next the importance of the virtual cultural fantastic laminated wood structures, to
theory and practice of teaching and of the history, which certainly exists, although, the North American carpenter who builds
necessary research to uphold and renew it materially we do not have any evidence, the two by four sections, firm reticular
in becoming current events. and, at this status, we describe which structures of the balloon frame, he teaches
his team the rules of thumb (rules of Before leaving the historical narrative from factories, kilns, artisans, quarries,
thumb) as the Americans call the practice of intuitive synthesis, it is useful to and foundries logistically planned
rules of building (of thumb): sections, remember that with the technological according to the needs of the assembly
distances, rigors, arrows, corner solutions, instrumentation above mentioned, in the and construction building site. Just
nails, hammers, etc. long history of the built planet, artifacts remember the Gothic cathedrals in
In this historical succession of techniques and works of great technical complexity Europe that marked the real beginning of
at different times and different ways, a and structural were made, and controlled the Renaissance: large semi-continental
new figure takes place; the chief builder management processes that involved geographical multi-generational family
(architect). The Master, head Master, regions and sometimes semi-continental business with financial management
who controls the process on site and built spaces for period of times, in many cases, issues that have had seriously engaged
without drawings based on memory affected several generations (pyramids, current management structures and
practice. roads, aqueducts, bridges, temples, cities, highly equipped. They were funded by
Long after, schools begun to teach the fortresses and cathedrals). solid multi-national financial Companies
architects how to build rather that do Constructions that would create more with the support by a sort of monocracy
not build, and they’ll never build, so it than some tension and criticism, even lines of command (the determination of
begins the history of theoretical teaching, the most sophisticated technological the Prince, Count, Duke, King, Sultan or
teaching you more how should be built equipment of nowadays. Building sites, the Pope): this last, perhaps, the secret of
than actually to build. No longer with which were employed tens of thousands the success of their companies, but also of
manual examples on site, but outside, of workers for dozens of years, housed, their catastrophic failures (Matteoli, 1989).
away from the practice, in the abstract fed, transported, financed, centrally According to the documents found,
space of the theory and narrative, written and complete managed. Supplied by generally all the constructions of the great
communication, drawing, spoken or by materials, components and equipment builders of the past had no drawings or
computer. purchased near and far markets, products specifications; they were executed on the
basis of wood scale models in (sometimes) had to eat and drink during their lunch figure is replaced by the contractor-
and then carried out and supervised by break without leaving the dome. He also engineer and by the construction worker
the Master. Some stone elements were used to draw, not always with success (urbanized rural labourer). A technical
cut on the basis of models of the real the pontoons (the famous badalone) to and organizational ‘progress’, however,
paper. The supporting structures resisted transport the materials needed across the decreases the quality of executive and the
centuries, wars, fires and earthquakes, Arno river. experimental quality of the building site.
but were not calculated or verified by In the great historical context of By gathering all the information of the
the construction science and still today, thousands years, only two centuries ago industrial culture after World War II,
many, jealously keep some secrets to the construction technology was then which opened to the human sciences, and
comprehend mathematics and geometry. entrusted to traditional morphological theories of design, the beginning of the
Three or four hundred years ago, the codes: this is the way you do the walls, building industrialization era marked a
architect chose the stones and bricks. and so the vaults, the lintels, and so the vision in which the architect reclaimed
Brunelleschi had designed all the special carpentry roof … so that in many of these its important role again, key element of
bricks (and regular ones) of the Santa artifacts is still visible the signature of the the design process. In this perspective,
Maria del Fiore dome in Florence and the 'Master' or his initials or logo. the architecture project originates from
blocks machine to form them, regularly The innovations introduced with the the study of demanding requirements,
Michelangelo chose the marble quarries advent of new structural technologies, and often articulated by variety of functions
for St. Peter and Antonelli felt the sound of in particular with reinforced concrete and and extension of time, than those
the bricks of the Mole one by one, beating steel marked the beginning of last century, considered part of an industrial project,
with a hammer to assess them, from the transforming the building sites into a which it developed in the definition of
sounds, the bearing capacity. Brunelleschi more fragmented working process and, in form, configuration of functions up to
organized the shift work of the builders some ways similar to industry standards. the aspects of production, economics
on the dome and dictated what they The chief architect Master builder and management. It emerged the idea of
planning by a team rather than a single the particulars and discussed with the ergonomics...). Quality building regulation
individual and the methodological issues craftsmen about the installation issues. marked the turning point. Particularly
became of paramount importance. Fifty years ago in Italian schools of it is worth remembering that in 1964 in
The line briefly drawn absolutely does not architecture , they taught the ‘construction school of Architecture were professorships
want to entirely describe the reality of the elements’ and in the 60s graduates drew of Construction Elements and Applied
construction industry in our country or in window joints, gutters, eaves, walls of Chemistry to the construction materials
the advanced economies, but only a cue to eight, twelve... and corners, gaps and roof and mineralogy. In the early seventies
trigger a debate on the issue. grid structures. the discipline Construction Elements,
In this context it is interesting to note The greatest boom of Technology whose contents expressed in those terms,
how the construction trade has been and Architecture as a discipline has its roots appeared out of date for the production
remains, even today, a relatively backward in the years after the Second World trade, changed its name.
sector and scarce productivity growth, War: 1948-1953. Under the pressure of The Architecture Technology was
compared to many other financial sectors: the post-war reconstruction of Europe, born and pushed by industry changes;
despite the innovations, in the projects international bodies like the CIB (Conseil gathering together other disciplines, the
and building sites still persist practices International du Batiment, International challenge represented by a vision of the
that do not benefit the improvement of Council for Building) promoted the project open to methodological aspects,
economic and technological quality of the industrialization of the building trade sociological, economic, scientific and
construction process. and this opened up new spaces to the technical, performance-based on quality
Only sixty years ago the architect- disciplines of technology (regulation, building efficiency of the project. The
technologist drew the details of Quality building efficiency, coordination technological discipline has become the
construction: Gutters, chimney pipes, and modular aspects joints, eligible reason of the study of the transformations
windows, doors and windows profiles, dimensional errors eligible, certification, of matter and the information applied
gaps and roof grid structures, he wrote site management, material handling, to the purpose of the project and the
architectural work (Ciribini, 1984). It was carry out in the project. because the physics technique opted for
a real burst, intended to pass on the know The updating of the Technology the ‘building physics’, introduced by the
how has brought the discipline to deal Architecture discipline becomes Technology Architecture. Regarding
with huge epistemological issues, scientific increasingly fast, the field expands to new the other disciplines, we can say that
and technical characterized by a very disciplines, methods and theories impose the composition, only few years or
strong and important methodological as tools to design and build and manage so has begun to share the assessment
approach. This essential condition, if not the plan, manage to build complex of the importance of the energy issue
at the cost of an escape from reality, still processes. in the project area. But, in view of its
require the need for a synthesis. After the energy crisis of 1973, the unique characteristics, such discipline,
From the lined turn it articulates technology architecture engaged the field it was intended to carry out the project
the discipline within the Faculty of of energy in buildings earlier, and in the and its connection with the context
Architecture, which has seen the processes of settlement, then, exploring particularly from a formal point of view
definition of a variety of professional from the side of the architecture and the and perception, often expressed with not
divisions: instruments regulation project, a sector such as the energy, which well founded values in terms of technical-
of construction processes, project was once the specific competence of the scientific and also, even today, sometimes,
technology, communication technology «Building Physics». A subject performed, among the techniques we note rejection of
planning, building management however, exclusively from the point of this subject matter.
technology processes, building process view of the relationship between energy From the energy side, and not only
of industrialization, technology and equipment. that, we have reached the current
maintenance, building restoration The field of ‘passive’ design of the flourishing sustainable exception of
technologies, technology innovation ... buildings was not, then, taken into technology (everything: materials, design,
all, however, strongly characterized and consideration from this subject in schools architecture, processes, components,
attentive to the aspects of method that are of Architecture. It took almost ten years, etc...). An ambiguous exception actually:
it is, in fact, more like a recovery right non sustainable building. It’s a debate still environment, it is essentially hostile, or
after half a century of architecture going on. at least estrange compared to the natural
environmentally and vigorously absurd, A similar debate regarding environmental environment and, in absolute terms, even
after decades during which the obligation architecture, analogous concept unsustainable.
of the formal research ruled the culture of as sustainable architecture, if not In fact, using environment and energy,
the project, in schools of architecture in identical, understood as a coherent and buildings are environmentally negative
the profession and, in the happy oblivion environmentally friendly architecture. and unsustainable. This is to minimize
of centuries of environmental coherence Concept that has consolidated, marking the negative weight and the unsustainable
and strict compliance of the Genius Loci the transition from a architecture in of the interventions as you well know it
Vitruviano. Almost unaware, return to relation to climate, to an architecture is impossible, in theory, which homes
the past, after several years of different in relation to other elements of the behave like a tree. Maybe it’s time to
tendency. planet as water, air and vegetation. It curb the ‘sustainable’ environmental
The concept of sustainability should would be logical to think that a building enthusiasm and look at more on realistic
be within the architecture concept and which denies or does not respect the tendency, but go beyond this subject
not already an accessory problem or an environment not to be classified as would lead us to stray into a ethical
optional aspect: Vitruvio had classed it in architecture. discussion in which I have no intention
the category of the utility (utilitas). To be So as we notice, in the two meanings, to discuss.
more precise, the architecture is as such Environmental and Sustainable of the Another subject explored by this
as sustainable, an equal requisite in the architecture and technology, what could discipline is the Technology for historical
value of the firmitas. In fact you cannot define a superfluous specification? buildings or the technology of building
qualify since architecture, a building that In reality the issue is less simple: every renovation and functional of historical
has an unstable structure. As well as it human intervention, even the most buildings. The debate in this subject is
shouldn’t be classify since architecture, a attentive to reduce its impact on the on two levels: one, sometimes harsh,
between the contenders of a philological today, in the large and tumultuous subject in the Italian academic world, the debate
restoration to the original materials, in of the Project. on these two issues can be articulated and
the design solutions and manufacturing It is not a new problem, which appears frayed in many aspects ranging from the
processes, and two, by those who opt always in the debate of our discipline multiplicity unified technology to diverse
‘formal’, by using new materials and and addressed at many meetings in the technological breakdown, in a continuum
technologies to restore historical building. last years, from Sorrento to Tolmezzo to of diverse situations, with different
A refined and academic clash and often name a few. It’s the old and controversial promoters passionately convinced of
pushed to the limits of ratio. issue of the subject and generality of their ideas, academic groups, academics,
In this specific subject technology is any professional profile, the old conflict schools and more of well-known in our
expressed in the definition of construction between the potential superficial of busy environment.
technology to be applied in restoring generalists and the dangerous conceptual Within the discussion regarding the
projects to deal with the project itself, restriction. There are two possible architecture project we must paid
paying attention to the procedures and developments of the dynamics: attention to the problem of the language:
process management. a. The evolution goes toward it is time to address our dialectic
In response to the multiplicity meanings consolidation and the autonomy of with definite guidelines to avoid
or disciplinary fields of the Architecture specialization areas and the proliferation misunderstandings, ambiguities that often
Technology practiced and practicable of technologies; hide the absence of concepts and issues
already today and to those who, b. The centripetal evolution toward hide behind a mask.
undoubtedly, will be in next future, there specialization in a single technological In the outlined alternative, I am for a swift
is the problem to define the hierarchy, discipline that covers all the skills as and rigorous recovery of entire discipline
interactions, fields and restrictions and, part of a unique indissoluble, integrated, unit: a technology is only one, in which
therefore, Overall, dealing with other control, in terms of supervise, interactions; we teach, with the correct hierarchical
disciplines in the architect curriculum of As often happens in Italy, and in particular criteria, the current and possible future
articulation as integrated and interacting industrialization, energy, environmental figure with multidisciplinary knowledge
chapters of the same culture design. If this resources, building life cycle analysis, and interact with other subjects of the
vertical and horizontal control of planning management of complex processes, etc. designing team with a major function of
processes and construction was possible Legitimate the occupation in this field. managing for the definition and control of
for architects in medieval, Gothic and In recent years, the area of project the quality process.
Renaissance era, it must be possible to do management in our schools of The recovery of a unique regulate
this nowadays , which have now more Architecture seemed to be taken by manifesto, dynamic, set on a core of
powerful and conceptual knowledge and the composition, the only one entitled didactic themes and aimed to research
memory of the individual and the ‘Rules to manage the project. But history has project, it is not an easy task. It is a self-
of art’. taught us that the architect of the past critical path imposing rigorous choices to
Only a person with general competence was also a physician, chemical, structural, prevent the deformation of the discipline,
over all the issues that has to check in the and the figure of technologist of today or jammed of academic rules, or loss of
project may be able direct the project, can fully interpret with a strong boost of identity by the effect of excessive dilation
making use of special advisers in the innovation. caused by cognitive marginal fields, and
various disciplines involved (structure, The field of various disciplines is clear, sometimes too specific than the core of
form, energy, equipment, lighting, who control the structures, which control the qualifying Technology of Architecture.
climate, acoustic, physics of the building, the form and context through aspects The ‘Polar Star’ path should be the
vegetation, financial management etc.) of perception of space... Who values the integration and coordination project
knowing, however, controlling these historic and architectural restoration of the specification complex of the
specific aspects, avoiding that these skills techniques, some physics, chemistry, Technology Architecture.
deformed the overall synthesis. history, the sociological aspects of living, A fundamental statement must guide the
The path of Technology through the etc. rebuilding of the design disciplines and
appropriation of fields such as law, The technologist must therefore be a among the Technology Architecture: the
project technically informed and correct should be recognized the useful and an institutional duty of the community
requires the knowhow. The substantial meaningful part of these areas, recovered of Technology, who, with authority and
difference from the project intended and clearly accomplished and expressed, example of its social activity and cultural
as research, exercise, eminently formal its finalization to the project. production, will instruct and validate the
practice. While this updating process, in many trends.
The path to redefine the current discipline cases, take place naturally through
field of Architecture Technology, the critical attention of the referees NOTES
wanting to maintain a role manifesto involved, in the other hand the change is 1
The first postwar edition of the
of the discipline with attention to the characterized by a strong opposition for Architect’s Manual was edited by USIS
centrifugal growth, it is not easy to set, or its natural tendency towards preservation (United States Information Service) and
to go through. In fact over the last thirty and natural resistance to abandon the the National Research Council (CNR)
years, after the explosion caused by the usual areas of research and teaching but in 1946.
Technology Architecture establishment perhaps exhausted . 2
Sustainability: defined in 1983 in a way
title, were added in the manifesto, along The manifesto, which should be defined, that may be objectionable according to
with new topics of interest and topical, will not be a closed fortress, but available the second Law of Thermodynamics by
also many marginal issues compared to to be explored and constant updated by Gro Harlem Brundtland, distinguished
the problem of the project. adding new tools and overcoming those Chairwoman of the World Commission
It is need a great deal of criticism and obsolete ones so as to guarantee vitality on Environment and Development
analysis of the specialize areas, marginal and topicality, trying to institutionalize the (WCED).
or depleted as the central theme result the changing process.
most clear and the manifesto more solid The critical evolution selection can be
in the overall scenario of the curriculum done step by step, calibrating the weights
of the degree course and research. It and titles in its path course, but it also
REFERENCES
Alberti, L. B. (1452), De re ædificatoria, Dieci libri sulla Architettura.
Ceragioli, G. (2002), Dare un’anima al futuro. Note per un umanesimo tecnologico, MILLE, Torino.
Ceragioli, G., Comoglio Maritano, N. e De Filippi, F. (2003), Uscire dal tunnel: tecnologie intermedie o avanzate e l’ibridazione
tecnologica per l’habitat nei paesi in via di sviluppo in Tecnologia, progetto, manutenzione, FrancoAngeli, Milano.
Ciribini, G. (1979), Tecnologia del design. Metodi e strumenti logici per la progettazione architettonica, Franco Angeli, Milano.
Ciribini, G. (1984), Tecnologia e progetto, CELID, Torino.
Matteoli, L., Pagani R. e Peretti G. (1978), Azione Ambiente, Cortina, Torino.
Matteoli, L. (1980), “L’Energia nel Territorio del Progetto”, Casabella, Vol. I. Si trova anche in: http://matteoli.iinet.net.au/
html/Articles/EnergiaProgetto.html.
Matteoli, L., Utopia, tecnologia e futuro, si trova in: http://matteoli.iinet.net.au/html/Articles/UtopiaEngItal.html.
Matteoli, L. (1989), Storia del vetro.
AAVV (1985), Manuale dell’Architetto, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Hoepli, Milano.
Palumbo, R. (1993), Metaprogettazione per l’edilizia ospedaliera, CNR-I.C.I.T.E, Progetto finalizzato edilizia, BEMA, Milano.
NOTE
1
La prima edizione postbellica del Manuale dell’Architetto è stata curata
dall’USIS (United States Information Service) e dal Consiglio Nazionale
delle Ricerche nel 1946.
2
Sostenibilità: definita nel 1983 in modo forse eccepibile dal punto di vi-
sta del secondo Prinicipio della Termodinamica da Gro Harlem Brundt-
land presidente emerita del World Commission on Environment and De-
velopment (WCED).
Technological design Abstract. Architecture involves measurable (tangible) and immeasurable (intangible)
elements, which makes the pursuit of good architecture a constant challenge for all
in a multidisciplinary, project contributors. It is often the immeasurable aspects, the intuition and feel for
a project and the way in which actors interact, which help to bring about exciting, creative
sensory, context and functional buildings that reflect the best of humanity, time and place. In this article the
author explores the role of technological design within an environmentally responsible age.
The narrative moves through the sustainable vernacular to the constructive link between
design and construction, concluding with some reflections on the shape of things to come
Key words. Technological design, Construction, Sustainable vernacular
Introduction
Building design and construction is largely a collaborative effort in which a range
of inputs are assimilated and interrelated tasks are undertaken by a wide range of
specialists. Everyone contributing to a construction project is, to lesser or greater
extents, concerned with issues concerning the integration of design, technology
and management. Building professionals need to understand the relationships between
manufacturing, detail design, assembly and disassembly, in short the ability to apply
available technologies and manage the process to ensure a quality product. One of the
biggest challenges facing practitioners is the enormous range of materials, products,
structural solutions and architectural styles from which to choose. The challenge lies
ISSN online: 2239-0243 in selecting the most appropriate to suit a wide range of (often competing) project
© 2011 Firenze University Press parameters. These decisions lie at the heart of the design process during which
http://www.fupress.com/techne designers, working individually and/or as part of a project team, make decisions
energy of the building and lower its (typologies). By working to ethical Cultural, economic, environmental
carbon emissions through ever more principles it is possible to realise and social aspects of sustainability
stringent building regulations and buildings that are sustainable and add need to be considered concurrently
associated guidance. For example, in value to society. The aim should be to and in line with the principles of
the UK all new build housing must achieve a sense of economy, enriching minimising and maximising:
be zero carbon by 2016 and other daily activities with the least use of – cultural sustainability requires
new buildings by 2019. Concerns materials and energy. Primary design sensitivity to the characteristics of
over climate change have led to a principles are to: the local community. By recognising
reassessment of how buildings are – minimise: waste, energy cultural and religious diversity it
detailed so that our built environment consumption, materials use, damage should be possible to make a positive
is more resilient to future shifts in to the environment, unhealthy indoor contribution to society. This may be
weather patterns. Collectively this environments, unethical practices, as subtle as engaging with the local
has brought about innovations in poor design community and incorporating local
materials and systems (the architectural – maximise: value, renewable energy detailing traditions into new building
technologies) and a re-assessment of sources, sustainable (natural) materials, styles
how we build. quality of life for users, sensory – economic initiatives may relate
engagement, ethical practices, good to affordability and whole life costs;
Toward a sustainable vernacular design. the use of local materials, products
Architectural design is practiced as With the drive to reduce the carbon and suppliers to sustain the local
a way of thinking and designing by footprint of our building stock it would economy; creation of new markets and
following some fundamental rules be easy to take a rather narrow view products in response to environmental
(principles); not by conforming of sustainability (energy reduction legislation etc.
to a fixed style or a set of forms only) and overlook the wider picture. – environmental aspects include,
for example; efforts to reduce waste; requirements by being creative and sustainable buildings. Changes in
energy efficiency and carbon neutral thinking about the fundamental attitudes to how we build and to how
buildings; improve the quality of the performance requirements of the we apply architectural technologies are
internal environment by eliminating building and its impact on the also related to our better understanding
toxins and improving air quality. Other environment over its long life. of healthy buildings and our sensory
initiatives relate to the use of renewable Invariably this may create tensions (re)engagement with our immediate
and natural materials, adaptability and between cultural, economic, environment.
the reuse of materials environmental and social factors. But it
– social aspects relate to ethical also stimulates markets for innovations Constructing the constructive link
sourcing of materials and considerate in both process and product. In the UK the importance of technical
treatment of the environment and The response to concerns over climate design has brought about the
employees; the health, safety, wellbeing change has been to use new materials development of a new professional,
and comfort of workers and building and products with recycled content, the architectural technologist
users; community involvement and new techniques and new architectural (and architectural engineer). The
empowerment; and responding to the details and, in some cases, a return to development of this new profession can
local cultural context. techniques and processes used by our be traced back to the architect’s gradual
Primary drivers behind a more ancestors. Concern for our planet has retreat from the construction site and
sustainable tradition may simply be also resulted in a return to natural and architectural detailing; resulting in a
to comply with current legislation renewable materials and traditional gap to be filled by others with better
and guidance (such as Codes and building methods, some of which are technical skills. This trend can be
Standards). It is, however, possible being used in conjunction with highly seen in architectural education, with
to push the boundaries and design sophisticated off-site manufacturing many schools of architecture giving
buildings that go beyond the minimal techniques to create innovative and less and less attention to technical
La forma del futuro Progettare e realizzare edifici che rispondono, piuttosto che
competono, con sistemi ecologici, che sono umani, opportuni e
ovviamente facili e sicuri da montare e usare, dovrebbe essere
lo scopo di tutti i progetti. Equilibrare l’olistico con il fisico, e
manipolare idee astratte verso solidi manufatti attraverso l’uso di
robuste tecnologie per realizzare edifici che sono belli, conforte-
voli e piacevoli, può diventare un’abitudine. Questo richiede una
approfondita comprensione delle tecnologie costruttive, della
progettazione e del management: i componenti della tecnologia
dell’architettura. Inoltre richiede che le varie discipline associate
alla costruzione lavorino insieme e si chiedano costantemente il
perché e il come costruire.
Quando partiamo col chiederci come gli edifici sono stati creati,
costruiti e usati, iniziamo un lungo processo di raccolta, assimi-
lazione, messa a punto e reinvenzione della nostra conoscenza
pratica di base: eterni studenti del nostro argomento. La cono-
scenza della progettazione è fondata su una comprensione di
come gli edifici sono messi insieme, usati, maltrattati, conserva-
ti, aggiustati ed eventualmente dismessi con la maggioranza di
materiali riutilizzati in un nuovo manufatto. Questa conoscenza
evolve con il progetto di ogni nuovo edificio. È un processo di
identificazione e analisi del problema; di generazione dell’idea;
di raccogliere, analizzare, produrre e coordinare informazioni; di
trasformarle in conoscenza e di usarle per rendere il processo
The shape of things to come collecting, assimilating, adjusting and be difficult to challenge established
Designing and realising buildings that reinventing our practical knowledge protocols. Technological advances
respond to, rather than compete with, base; perpetual students of our subject. in manufacturing, information
ecological systems, that are humane, Design knowledge is grounded in an technologies and product development
timely and of course simple and safe to understanding of how buildings are raise the prospect of new opportunities
assemble and use, should be the goal put together, used, abused, maintained, to be creative and to realise buildings
of all project. Balancing the holistic repaired and eventually taken apart that are in harmony with their
with the physical and manipulating with the majority of materials reused in natural environment. Regulations
abstract ideas towards solid artefact a new artefact. This knowledge evolves are constantly evolving which
through the use of robust technologies with every new building project. It is a places changing emphasis on the
to realise buildings that are beautiful, process of problem identification and way in which things are done, often
comfortable and enjoyable, can analysis; idea generation; gathering, necessitating a change in established
become addictive. This requires a analysing producing and coordinating and familiar procedures. Clients
thorough understanding of building information; turning it into knowledge expect their professional advisers to be
technologies, design and management; and using it to make the process of competent and knowledgeable about
the components of architectural building more effective, with the topical developments. Thus lifelong
technology. It also requires the various ultimate aim of pleasing clients and learning is an essential component of a
disciplines associated with construction providing exciting, vibrant, sustainable professional’s commitment to his or her
to work together and to constantly and healthy environments for all those vocation; and essential element in the
question why and how we build. who use them. drive to stretch the tradition toward a
When we start to question how For designers working in a pluralistic more sustainable building vernacular.
buildings are created, assembled and society, with no dominant design The success of buildings, and ultimately
used, we begin a lifelong process of thread or coherent framework, it may the success of those involved in
Acknowledgement
Questo articolo è basato su materiale relativo al libro dell’autore che è in corso di
pubblicazione: Architectural Technology, Second Edition (Wiley-Blackwell, spring
2012).
building projects, depends on attention inability to learn from others, wasteful of the architectural technologist,
to detail. Attention to physical joints working methods, ‘tick-box mentality’ both the official role promoted by
and details, and attention to the to management CIAT in the UK and that of other
interaction of the various parties to – maximise: effective communication, building designers such as architects
the building project. Professional creative interaction, knowledge and surveyors operating in this field,
designers need to master the sharing, efficient and effective working will continue to evolve, shaped and
technologies available to them and methods, flexible and responsive reshaped by the industry and the
apply technology in such a way as to management. society in which we live and work.
improve our built environment for Architectural technology as a discipline The challenge is to constantly evaluate
present and future generations. To do and as a knowledge domain has evolved what we are doing and why, and seek
this effectively and efficiently requires rapidly in the UK since the early 1990s, to create a stimulating and sensory
a suitable managerial framework in and in doing so it has started to re- building every time we work on a
which people can work creatively and establish the synergy between building new project. The ability to make life
collaboratively towards a common goal. design, technology and community. better for building users and the planet
It also requires the ability to assemble a The socio-technological relationship is, quite literally, at our collective
temporary project team that can work between humans and buildings can fingertips.
together in a creative and productive be enhanced through the application
manner. Returning to the fundamental of architectural technology to realise Acknowledgement
design principles of minimising and exciting, stimulating and sustainable This article is based on material
maximising, project participants built environments. In particular from the author’s forthcoming book
should aim to: the opportunity to address complex Architectural Technology, Second
– minimise: ineffective challenges through the detail design Edition (Wiley-Blackwell, spring 2012).
communication, sterile interaction, process is greater than ever. The role
Design in the educational Abstract. The theme of education and scientific research for architects and engineers as-
sumes a particular connotation due to the diverse polarity, today, of places where design
process for architects occurs, its connection with the analyses, specialist in-depth examination and synthesis of
the proposal. The very high ‘technological level’ reached in architectural design risks being
and engineers uncritically applied. The persistence of the applicative aspect of design does not exclude
the possibility of basic and experimental research being conducted in universities, although
within the transmission of knowledge related to the acquisition of practical skills deriving from
industrial technologies, for their current and correct use. Architectural design in the University
must assume the connotation of «precompetitive development», in a system of objectives
with undisputed ‘structural’ reason.
Key words: Design, Training, Research, University, Architectural Technology
The reform debate has focused on the role that the University can and must play in
scientific research for the socio-economic development of the country; in the face
of problems and challenges posed by the market; by the redefinition of institutional
contexts even at the supra-national level; and by the dynamic processes of technological
innovation, departing from a radical approach to economic, social and environmental
sustainability.
Scientific research encompasses multiple scales of knowledge, linked and composed
differently in the post-modern society, in which, with the emergence of the knowledge
ISSN online: 2239-0243 economy, the disciplinary components disperse in a reticular pattern as opposed to
© 2011 Firenze University Press the traditional pyramidal structure. It is as if there was a new Copernican revolution,
http://www.fupress.com/techne where knowledge is the primary factor of development that can cope with the crises and
imbalances of globalization. and cognitive systems therefore require manner. Design incorporates a very
The speed of technological innovation acknowledgment and the adjustment of high ‘technological level’, with the risk
is related to the constellation of network an institution central to the formation of of mindlessly exhausting it solely on the
nodes, to their reconfiguration and broader and broader masses, with the goal applicative logic of a range of sectorial
restructuring in relation to the actors of playing a critical role in the ‘systemic solutions, without articulating a unitary
involved in the promotion and use of crisis’ we are going through. In response perspective. The ‘applicative approach’
knowledge itself. This process is altering the to the undergoing changes, uncertain defined by the pragmatic culture that
places of knowledge production, which are future and the need to re-establish ethical governed the processes of the industrial
not limited anymore only to the historically standards for the relationship between man revolution, the transformation of nature
appointed institutions. Information / technique / technology, Marc Augé used and the radical innovations in production
communication technology, multimedia an anthropological approach to show the liaisons is no longer enough2.
and social networking continually create only possible way for education to make The persistence of the applicative nature
new places in the geography of knowledge. a unanimous sense of the change and to of design should not prevent basic and
This context illustrates a crisis in education, retrace the reasons for «design»1. experimental research in universities,
with a consequential vulnerability in the The discourse on education and scientific even as part of the transmission of
role of the University, caused by the break research has a particular connotation knowledge related to the acquisition
from the traditional hierarchical model in for architects and engineers, due to the of practical skills derived from mature
favour of a different articulation of the elite polarity of the different design production industrial technologies for current and
and leading classes. However, the nature places today and to its connection with proper use. Design within the University,
and timeline of the undergoing reform the analysis and synthesis of the proposal. different from professional design, should
process are not likely to change the system The challenge is to overcome the linear therefore embrace the connotation of «pre-
in the short term. The internationalization process of a positivist array and to competitive development», in a decidedly
and the outsourcing of information employ technology in a more conducive ‘structural’ system of objectives, as opposed
to the ‘superstructurality’ of the work of art3. relate to places outside the school where between the Italian construction sector and
It is necessary to note that in architectural technological innovations and transfers are investments in research, development and
design there is an uncertain, and an under- proposed to the building industry and its testing, finds a partial motivation in the
investigated line, between the demand supply chain (Schiaffonati, 2008). peculiarities of a highly fragmented and
problem analysis and the functional and Unfortunately, there is no doubt that, within territorially dispersed industry, as well as in
spatial synthesis that the finalized work the Faculty of Architecture, research is the characteristics of real estate properties;
needs to incorporate. We could reverse Le very limited and circumscribed, reflecting however that still doesn’t justify it as far
Corbusier’s slogan saying that la maison n’est the lowest overall rates of investment as the investments necessary for building
pas une machine à habiter meaning that the at the national level. Relations with the or urban conversion, maintenance and
formalized knowledge that generates the building industry are poor as well, which conservation, for the valorisation of a great
design and construction is not reducible to in itself is structurally not inclined towards cultural heritage.
the repetition of a few rules, referring to the investment in research and development. The situation shows a total lack of
epistemological culture that undermines The same critical issues are noted in ‘connection’ between the various actors
any schematic and linear relationship. relation to public entities in the territorial / stakeholders involved in building
Speaking today of «architectural government. It is a structural weakness and urban design. It also reflects the
technological design», and not just of made more pronounced by the lack of backwardness of decision-making, a
design in general, has a poignant historical research centres, in contrast to the situation ‘commissioner crisis’, resulting in a design
significance. If technology is such a in other countries where pre-competitive that is ‘indeterminate’, subjected to multiple
significant key to the contemporary world, development and technology transfers programming, financial and administrative
then we can’t help noting the superficiality permeate more extensively in the secondary uncertainties. «If the continuous and
of many design approaches, unable to assess sector, from large industries to small and progressive sharing of choices among all
the problematic nature of its undiscerning medium enterprises4. stakeholders is considered a condition for
use. In consequence, there is a need to This particular criticality of the relationship the success of a planned initiative plan
and if the design process can be assimilate is made by the culture of design, very design training.
to a complex decision system taken by all focused on architectural composition and Since 1980’s, the academic legislation has
players, then you can not underestimate therefore on approaches that give primacy introduced specific norms6 regarding
the importance of the techniques and to architecture as free artistic expression. professional activity with regard to the
procedures that facilitate the sharing» (Del And this often cause an uncritical use of full-time and part-time teachers. These
Nord, 2011). technology for expressive reasons that do norms have a special significance, as well
Departing from this hypothesis, the design, not have any economic and environmental as a critical one, for those subject areas that
strictly speaking, is a link of a ‘chain’ that sustainability. derive their teaching knowledge directly
connects to other links, upstream and In Italy, the difficulty to manage building from the profession: as it is the case with
downstream of the production cycle, from or urban ‘grand projects’ staying within urban, architecture and technological
planning to management, and thus requires an adequate timeframe, cost and quality, design. At the beginning, professional
the knowledge and understanding of is attributed to a certain extent to an practice was denied to those who had opted
decision-making system logic as a whole, idealistic culture of design, which operates for the full-time and were in charge with
as well as of management techniques. a category and value-based distinction the most relevant tasks in the academic
Dimensions that are nearly absent in between practical-applicative activities and management. With the introduction of
the Faculties of Architecture, which are conceptual ones, between humanistic and academic autonomy, the approach has
still based on the mid-century teaching scientific culture5. been diversified depending on the location.
methods, without a significant integration The design practice, even in academia, In some universities, limited professional
of the production management knowledge. should manifest the need for a close practice was allowed for full time faculty,
This is yet another problem that, in addition understanding of the implementation upon prior authorization.
to educational programs, concerns the processes. Not having the opportunity Since the recent university reform7, things
faculty and their training. to practice the steps from design to have evolved towards an almost complete
In this sense, a significant contribution construction generates a significant gap in ban of the professional practice, establishing
a clear distinction between full-time and evolutions of the subject. In the first effectiveness, timeliness, transparency,
and part-time. It must be noted that the version of the law the Universities were fairness and competitiveness, referred to
legislation has always allowed research and allowed to prepare preliminary projects, by European norms – evolves towards an
consulting contracts with public and private probably in the mood that, in this phase ample, almost all encompassing spread
entities within the university facilities, in of definition and simulation of design of the public competition procedure,
particular of the Departments. This activity alternatives, the experience of research minimizing the secrecy of public clients, it is
is so intra moenia, however, that the design centres could be an added value. The clear that the academic research centers and
is limited almost exclusively to phases opposition of engineering companies, for their full-time professors (who represent a
upstream of the preliminary design. This obvious competition reasons, has led to majority) are excluded from an increasingly
means feasibility studies and preliminary amendments to this possibility. topical debate on the complexity of design
documents, which, while outlining It should be mentioned that after some and its implementation.
alternatives and requirements, however, appeals, the argument on the trade press As a result, a major concern has emerged
do not allow a complete exploration of and the decisions of the Overseeing in the scientific disciplines that in the
the project sequence to the construction Authority of Public Works, Services and undergraduate Architecture programs
phase. Ulterior levels of detail, redirected Supplies Contracts and of the Council of the faculty members, particularly those
to professional responsibilities, including State9, it was reached the decision that the in architectural design and technology,
those defined by law, both as regards the Universities are not economic entities, are affected by such limitations, hence
absent and the approvals of the technical precluding the possibility to participate in enlarging the gap between the teaching of
documents, both for the liability phase of joint ventures, and hence to competitions architecture and its practice. This issue is
construction of artefacts. that give access, in a majority of cases, to even more relevant to the physicality of the
Around this theme, with and after the loans for public design commissions at construction activity as a set of technical
passage of the law for public works,8 a building or urban scale. acts related to different disciplinary sectors,
debate has started with different proposal In a scenario that – based on the efficiency, with the necessity of inflecting the related
theoretical apparatuses. particularly sensitive to all issues of design, and Landscape: Comparative Experiences,
The rapid changes make a linear given its multi-scale interdisciplinary. that Marc Augé, invited by Massimo
consequentiality between basic and applied It is necessary to pursue these aims that Venturi Ferriolo, held May 4, 2009 in the
research and pre-competitive development are certainly difficult to achieve given Faculty of Architecture and Society at Milan
increasingly problematic, given that the corporate resistance that hinders the Polytechnic. The references to structuralism
innovation is increasingly determined process of reform and liberalization of and to Lévi-Strauss’s investigation methods
by the amplification of areas and places professions, long and repeatedly requested are obvious.
of production10. This concern has been by the EU. 2
During the first PhD program in
at the centre of a heated debate in the There remains no other way to encourage «Architectural technology», started in
Forum Making and teaching architecture the relations between research and the 1983 by the then Department of Planning,
in Italy11, analyzing the particularity of institutions with a demand for design Design and Building Production of the
our universities in relationship to the and production, to identify new roles Milan Polytechnic, in partnership with
European context and to the chances of for academia that rise at the height of its Naples and Turin, Joseph Ciribini redeemed
contemplating the practice of design as part time and of the territorial and building the purpose of design from any technical
of departmental research. dynamics, and to continue the newly creed, dedicating it instead to exploring a
New proposals are necessary also with started process of academic change with spatial and figurative dimension and capable
regards to the evaluation of the scientific proactive and innovative spirit, avoiding a of combining each transformation with a
activity of scholars and he recognition of regressive closing. sense of responsibility. A similar discourse
design as a core activity of many faculty enclosed spaces, to clearly distinguish the is to be found in the contributions of Enzo
members in the formation of new architects original sections from the complex Paci to Casabella, borrowed from Husserl's
and engineers, even in the new sector 08/C phenomenology, and in Ernesto Nathan
«Technological architecture design» that NOTES Rogers' reflections «Utopia of reality».
includes the previous ICAR/10-11-12-13, 1
It refers to the conference on Anthropology Philippe Daverio, during the lectio
NOTE
1
Il riferimento è alla conferenza sul tema Antropologia e paesaggio: esperienze a con-
fronto che Marc Augé, invitato da Massimo Venturi Ferriolo, ha tenuto il 4 maggio
2009 presso la Facoltà di Architettura e Società del Politecnico di Milano. Evidenti i
riferimenti allo strutturalismo e allo stesso metodo di analisi di Lévi-Strauss.
2
Già nel primo Dottorato di Ricerca in Tecnologia dell’Architettura, promosso nel
1983 dall’allora Dipartimento di Programmazione, Progettazione e Produzione Edili-
zia del Politecnico di Milano, convenzionato con Napoli e Torino, fu proprio Giusep-
pe Ciribini a richiamare la finalità del progetto riscattato da ogni fideistico tecnicismo,
per esplorare una dimensione spaziale e figurativa capace di coniugare le valenze di
ogni trasformazione con la consapevolezza della responsabilità. Come peraltro i con-
tributi su Casabella di Enzo Paci, mutuati dalla fenomenologia husserliana, e nella
prospettiva di Ernesto Nathan Rogers dell’«utopia della realtà».
Anche Philippe Daverio nella lectio magistralis tenuta il 16 settembre 2011 al Teatro
Scientifico Bibiena di Mantova, in occasione del 7° Seminario estivo OSDOTTA, su
«Innovazione, creatività e progetto», ha ripetutamente richiamato il nesso che inter-
corre tra il progetto e la dimensione antropologica.
3
La ricerca universitaria si struttura su diversi livelli. La ‘ricerca di base’, non finaliz-
magistralis held at the Teatro Scientifico products expendable on the market and between scientific and humanistic culture,
Bibiena in Mantua, September 16, 2011 makes possible the cooperation between as asked in the sixties by Charles P. Snow
with the occasion of the 7th OSDOTTA different competitors (Fund FIT Fondo in The two cultures and a second look, in
Summer Seminar on «Innovation, innovazione tecnologica del Ministero dello the Italian context far more difficult for the
Creativity and Design», has repeatedly Sviluppo Economico and CP European disciplinary entrenchments that are against
drawn the link between design and Collaborative projects). The ‘industrial a pragmatic evolution of the study plans.
anthropology. development’ has no public funding 6
Presidential Decree No. 382 of 11 July
3
University research is structured on because help only some pompetitors 1980, “Reorganization of university
several levels. The ‘basic research’, not (private funding to the enterprises). teaching, relative range of training as
aimed at economic profit, constitutes the 4
According to 2010 OECD data well as didactic and organizational
largest share of activities in the universities (Organisation for Economic Co-operation experimentation”.
(co-financed PRIN Progetti di ricerca and Development) Italy in 2008 invested 7
Law of 30th of December 2010 number
di interesse nazionale and FIRB Fondo 1,18% of its GDP in Research and 240 “Norms in material of organization
per gli investimenti della ricerca di base Development, when the aim of EU is the of the University, the accademis staff and
from MIUR Ministero dell’Istruzione 3% before the 2020. In other Countries was: recruitment, and the delegation to the
dell’Università e della Ricerca, NoE Sweden 3,75%, USA 2,77%, France 2,02%, Government to stimulate quality and
Network of Excellence at European level). UK 1,88%, Spain 1,35%. The data include efficiency in the University system”.
The ‘applied research’, on the other hand, is public and private investments. 8
Low of 11th of February 1994 number
linked to achievable targets, although still 5
The difficulty to overpass the idealistic 109 and following modifications and
far from the market (FAR Fund for research thought of some categories as architecture integrations.
and specific calls of, and UE funds STReP and construction, already identified by 9
See the recent ruling dated 2 May 2011
Specific targeted research projects). The Benedetto Croce in Aesthetica in nuce, or of the Council of the State opposing
‘pre-competitive development’ is close to the necessity of starting new relationships the possibility of the IUAV in Venice
Thoughts on basic training Abstract. If research, also in the technology field, produces interesting results, little
attention has devoted to education and to the relationship between the first and the
for the design: relationships second. But the wealth of knowledge now available (even for web accessibility) is pro-
foundly changing the approach to design and, therefore, to university education.
with research innovations This contribution is to open up a debate and to encourage a confrontation on this
issue.
One critical point concerns the alternation between the conceptualization and the
experience throughout the process that must see the student as the protagonist: from
first ideas up to the actual execution and to the expected life of what has been desig-
ned.
This implies that we are favoring a complex approach to simple themes rather than the
reverse.
Key words: Design, Innovation, Education, Sustainability, Connectivity
The risk, therefore, is that the ‘normal’ The theoretically available innovation especially at a time when absolutely
design activities (not related to great is not seen as a carrier of innovation new elements, with which each of us is
buildings and to great professional of the design methods, but as a forced to face, consist of a deep change
organizations) and the results of supplier of new specialist content to be in the students with whom we must
research march along two roads with packaged in specialized courses to be relate and in the context in which they
no intersections. This brings to two dished up to passive learners, who do will operate. I do not think, however,
reciprocal damages: on the one hand, not understand their consequences in that interesting experiments are
research tends not to take advantage of the experience of doing. missing, what is missing is an exchange
the natural phase of testing and of its These two issues are inevitably of ideas and an open debate.
feedback, being although, by definition, intertwined: the impact of research A rhetorical question perhaps, or
applied research, whose validity is and technological innovations onto perhaps necessary: is still there a sense
rapidly passed from the innovation, the ‘daily design’ on the one hand in the adjective «technological» given to
and on the other hand, the approach to and, in the other, the consequences the word design? The same comments
the design and to the methods for basic of research on an innovative approach that introduce the theme of this
training tend to remain structurally to the teaching of design (innovation TECHNE issue would suggest, perhaps
unchanged. in the design approach before than in unintentionally, that the answer was
But while the market ends up to the result produced ). not.
impose procedural and instrumental For years, I’ve been thinking as If we try to delete the list of the skills
innovations in the profession, unjustifiable the general indifference typical of the contributions given
unavoidable with the more vivid given to this theme (which, together by technology, we don’t know what
users1, basic education in our schools with the research, is the primary remains of the design itself.
of architecture is renewed almost motivation for the existence of the We should, rather, analyze what
exclusively in the theoretical contents. university) by our scientific community, characterizes today, the design
Note sui fattori «Of all the arts, architecture has the realest and strongest links with the
innovativi del era in which it is produced» (Bouchain, 2009). Non c’è dubbio che il
contesto del progetto tema dominante nell’ambito della progettazione, in questo momento
(ma un momento ormai dotato di un passato oltre che di una proiezione
nel futuro), sia quello della ‘sostenibilità’, in tutte le sue declinazioni
e a tutte le scale di intervento. Non è, evidentemente, il solo fattore
innovativo, ma è sicuramente quello che ha prodotto la necessità di
rivedere i paradigmi dell’architettura, insieme alla rivoluzione digitale,
al mutamento del rapporto delle opere con il tempo e alla crescente
complessità dei problemi da affrontare (determinata anche dalla mole
di informazioni disponibili, e quindi non ignorabili, alla portata di
tutti). In pochi anni (rispetto ai tempi della ricerca che da molto si era
dedicata a questi temi), si è assistito a una riorganizzazione abbastanza
radicale del modo di affrontare la progettazione.
Oggi le strutture di progettazione di piccole dimensioni (quelle
formate da una decina di addetti con diverse forme di partecipazione)
sono caratterizzate da un duplice fenomeno nuovo: il ricorso
frequente a competenze scientifico-tecniche esterne (geologi, fisici
tecnici, botanici, illuminotecnici, esperti di acustica, ecc.) che fino a
pochi anni fa intervenivano solo in casi particolari come consulenti
nel processo progettuale e, contemporaneamente, l’emergere di una
serie di competenze specifiche assunte dagli stessi architetti che
acquisiscono un sapere paraspecialistico, finalizzato agli scopi della
progettazione (architetti del verde, della bioclimatica, esperti in
calcoli energetici, di modellazioni informatiche, in LCA, ecc.). La
composizione di questi gruppi di progettazione riproduce un modo di
porsi attorno a un tema di lavoro che De Kerckhove (De Kerckhove,
1998) ha definito «intelligenza connettiva»: non si tratta più di inserire
competenze specialistiche in diverse fasi dello sviluppo di un’idea
progettuale originaria, secondo una sequenza lineare (dal generale
al particolare), sia pure con i necessari feedback, ma di organizzarsi
secondo un modello a rete policentrica, fin dalle primissime fasi
ideative.
Questo modello permette, pur da punti di vista diversi, che tutti
siano coinvolti simultaneamente nello stesso tema, avendo una base
activity and how it has changed in the between these two worlds is, as it is well the amount of information available,
methods and results. In other words, known, very uncertain). and therefore not ignorable, within
the so-called ‘technological design’ is everyone’s reach). In a few years
a real design approach, an alternative Notes on the innovative factors of the (compared to the long time the research
vision to a practice that remains tied design context was devoted to these issues), there has
to a substantially non-receptive mode «Of all the arts, architecture has the been a fairly radical restructuring of
compared to the changes taking place realest and strongest links with the era how to face the design.
today, even when, inevitably, it opens to in which it is produced» (Bouchain, Today, the small design organizations
the imperative of interdisciplinarity. 2009). There is no doubt that the (those made by a dozen people
Perhaps it can be recognized that, dominant theme in the design, at this with various forms of participation)
marching back upside-down along moment (however a moment, having are characterized by a double new
the path, facing design methods that already a past as well as a projection phenomenon: the frequent use of
rely, since the early stage of the design, into the future), is that of ‘sustainability’ scientific and technical expertise
on an approach of competences in all its forms and in all the scales outside the organization itself
interconnections that use appropriate of intervention. It is not, of course, (geologists, building physicists,
tools and skills aimed to the control the only one innovative factor, but botanists, lighting technicians, experts
of the decision-making process, these it is definitely the one that produced in acoustics, etc.) that until a few
methods are the products of the the need to revise the paradigms of years ago intervened only in special
technological research (which is a architecture, along with the digital cases such as consultants in the design
bridge between the ‘pure’ disciplinary revolution, the change of the relations process, and, simultaneously, the
research and the various operating between buildings and time and the coming out of a specific set of skills
areas to whom it may be applied. growing complexity of the problems taken by the architects themselves
But the definition of a boundary line to be faced up (also determined by who acquire a para-specialistic
knowledge, just for the purposes having a common information base configuration.
of design (architects of the green, concordantly directed since from To conclude on this topic: you can
bioclimatic architects, experts in energy the beginning, overcoming strictly not say that such an approach is
calculations, experts in computer disciplinary boundaries. Referring only the result of the problems
modelling, in LCA, etc. etc.). The to the use of a network and to a raised by sustainability, however,
organization of these design teams very interesting experiment by John the new complexity (methods and
follows a way of being around a Nastasi in the Product Architecture tools introduced by the different
theme of design that De Kerckhove Lab, Stefano Converso asks himself: performance requirements related to
(De Kerckhove, 1998) defined as «is a software able to establish a true sustainability) has made necessary
«connective intelligence»: it is no longer common space between different the collaboration between different
to include specialized competences professionals, to act as the basis for skills (not always clearly identifiable
in the various stages of development breaking some disciplinary fences as strictly disciplinary), multiplying
of an original design idea, according mainly in a inherently conflictual and them. The product of this process is
to a linear sequence (from general to complex process like is architecture?» innovative in its ability to respond to
particular), albeit with the necessary (Converso, 2008). The answer is not new demands.
feedback, but to organize oneself only positive, but very interesting. One more comment on the computer
according to a polycentric network The most significant indication that revolution. If originally somebody
model, starting from the earliest can be drawn from this approach thought that the computer was
concept stages. is that, recognizing the complexity configured as a technological prosthesis
This model allows, although from of a problem even ‘small’, it follows useful for the representation of shapes
different points of view, that all that the design organization permits and for using different calculation
members of a design team are involved the discarding of simplifications and models, by this time it is acknowledged
simultaneously in the same matter, shortcuts, assuming a suitably complex that the prosthesis has irreversibly
Riflessioni sui Premetto che sono sempre più convinta che la formazione dei
fattori innovativi nella laureati (in architettura, ma non solo) non debba essere finalizzata
formazione di base al raggiungimento di abilità professionali strettamente appiattite
al progetto sulle richieste del mercato del lavoro (ammesso che tali abilità siano
chiaramente identificabili in un dato istante). Sempre più è e sarà
necessario ricorrere a moduli o a forme di training per un continuo
e specifico aggiornamento alla professione, a seconda del campo in
cui ci si trova a lavorare ‘al momento’. L’accumulo di saperi ottenuti in
lunghe esperienze in un medesimo settore lavorativo sembra sempre
più irraggiungibile. La parte più caduca delle prassi professionali
si acquisisce o autonomamente sul campo o con brevi e frequenti
raccordi di formazione continua.
La formazione utile deve essere poco soggetta all’obsolescenza e non
basarsi sull’accumulo di informazioni (che, comunque, non ha niente
a che fare con la conoscenza). In altri termini essa dovrebbe essere
finalizzata a costruire una struttura flessibile volta a scegliere, di volta
in volta, le strategie di conoscenza e di progettazione più efficaci, in
una situazione data.
Silvano Tagliagambe – noto docente di filosofia della scienza,
epistemologo esperto in formazione, ricerca e innovazione – afferma
che ormai si tende a considerare inadeguato qualsiasi modello della
formazione basato sul presupposto che si possa procedere ‘per
sommatoria’, accatastando l’uno sull’altro ‘pezzi’ di formazione diversi.
«Occorre invece procedere con una politica sottile di intersezione, di
incastro, organizzando e mettendo in pratica processi formativi basati
sul confronto di prospettive diverse e sperimentando strategie di
interazione complesse» (Tagliagambe, 2010).
Ed Ernst Gombrich, da parte sua, parlando della formazione
universitaria, afferma che è tramontato il senso dell’educazione
‘all’antica’ che insisteva soprattutto sull’assimilazione della cultura
invece che sulla sua acquisizione (Gombrich, 1979). Nello stesso saggio
Gombrich spezza una lancia a favore di una struttura formativa che
changed the way of conceiving the one of the materials of the design knowledge accumulation obtained in
design process and turned in a quality itself. This strange mechanistic view long experiences in a single field of
improvement and into an approach of the relationship with technology work seems increasingly unattainable.
change itself to the design. This as a repertoire available to ‘translate’ The most fleeting nature of professional
observation is effective, paradoxically, a design idea having no body, denies practice, is acquired autonomously in
even when designers do not dominate the cultural function of technique and the field or with short and frequent
the information technologies (as it technology and of their new visions. connections to continuous learning.
could be seen in the famous case of The useful training system should
Gehry and the history of the museum Reflections on innovative factors in be little subject to obsolescence and
in Bilbao). The simple awareness of basic training for the design not relied on the accumulation of
their potential profoundly changes the I state in advance that I have become information (which, however, has
field of existence of possible design increasingly convinced that the training nothing to do with knowledge). In
solutions and of realization processes of graduates (in architecture, but not other words, it should build a flexible
(in particular the interface with only) should not be directed towards framework for selecting, from time to
industry). In contrast to the vision of the achievement of professional skills time, knowledge and design strategies
Gregotti (Gregotti, 2010), who reveals closely flattened on the demands of the more effective, in any given situation.
the violent prevailing of techniques labour market (provided that such skills Tagliagambe – well known professor
(means) over purposes, I believe that are clearly identifiable in a given time). of philosophy of science, epistemology
the contrast between the two terms is It is and it will be increasingly necessary expert in training, research and
impractical and misleading. According to adopt different types of continuous innovation – says that now we tend
to Gregotti the act of building the and specific upgrade professional to consider as improper any pattern
design goes through «an examination training, depending on the area where of training based on the assumption
on techniques» of construction as one is working ‘at the moment’. The that it is possible to proceed ‘by
summation’, stacking on each other they would need to communicate ‘for purposes, so contrasting to the ability
‘pieces’ of different knowledge. «We shared metaphors’. to select to that of accumulation
must Instead proceed with a thin policy In the same essay mentioned just of information and knowledge,
of intersection, interlocking, organizing above Tagliagambe notes that the discriminating what is important
and implementing educational illusion of solving problems with and relevant from what is less or not
processes based on the comparison «the engineer’s algorithm» (scientific at all. It is a process that involves the
of different perspectives and testing solutions to artificially isolated ability to restrict more and more the
strategies for complex interactions.» problems) has collapsed because «... the scope, so as to adapt oneself to space
(Tagliagambe, 2010). technology made it possible to expand and time circumstances where one
Gombrich, for its part, talking about enormously the range of observation has to operate. Thus the accumulation
the university education, says that the and intervention of scientific analysis of knowledge and notions is replaced
meaning of education ‘old fashion’ who and, as a result, has broadened the by a training ability to orient oneself
insisted particularly on the assimilation spectrum of problems and systems in the network (both literally and
of culture rather than its acquisition we can manage, in some way solving metaphorically) of relevant points,
has set (Gombrich, 1979). In the same them, including scenarios on a global without losing sight of the operational
essay Gombrich breaks a lance in scale» such as climate changes due to purposes.
favour of a training organization that the greenhouse effect, the shortage of
emphasizes a general culture than resources, etc. From abstract concept to the ‘doing’
hard specializations. The knowledge Such an approach denies the possibility and vice versa
accumulation required today for a ‘good of accumulating a priori the potential If we accept the conditions mentioned
culture’ now threatens to bury our mass of information available, above is thus to be concluded that,
young people coming from secondary favouring the formation versus the as claimed by Etienne Wenger2, there
schools unable to provide them what critical selection, for the desired are two hinges on the concept of
communities of practice and training: our faculties. There was a time when and the abstraction, in a circular way
participation and reification. In other we brought groups of students to do inductive-deductive
words, one learns by participating workshops on materials to the Grands – to involve students in a direct
personally to design activities (broadly Ateliers of Isle d’Abeau (Grenoble), experience that could result in the
defined) and reifying what is designed, where we learned many things: for practical construction of what has
that is giving shape to one’s experience. example, the usefulness of making been imagined. The transition from
This in general. In particular, the field abstract exercises which have as their the abstract image to the ‘thing’ is
of architectural design is the most topic the relationship between form and rich in theoretical implications to be
suitable to test these principles: the potential of a particular material within understood and conceptualized only
student is faced with an issue that needs certain constraints, so that students with their testing
to be transformed hermeneutically in could focus only on that aspect3. – to avoid the automatic recourse to the
a problem and, then, he must choose In the Studio basic training each technical manuals (even the most recent
between possible alternatives, according student must be personally involved ones), which suggests the imitation by
to the taken priorities, which to pursue according to these criteria: the adoption of pre-packaged solutions,
and develop, with the contribution – to focus on a holistic and complex of fidelistic reliability, instead of a
of which skills and knowledge, until topics to simple design issue (with a concept of performance integrated with
the testing of what happens when one few variables and clearly identifiable the whole idea
switches from the planning phase to the objectives), instead of applying – to accustom the student to discuss
material realization. But all this would simplified methods to complex issues with other participants in the design
require a real possibility of having (making possible a subsequent activity and construction process and to give
materials, equipment and laboratories of conceptual abstraction) reasons for their choices.
to build prototypes and parts of what – to encourage the conceptualization This approach is underpinned by
is planned, and this is very rare within by alternating between the experience a conception of architecture as doing
REFERENCES
Bouchain, P. (2009), “Of/Through/For”, The journal of an observer - Architecture d’aujourd’hui, giugno, p. 11.
Converso, S. (2008), “La forma oltre il software. La ricerca applicata del 'Product Architecture Lab' di John Nastasi”,
disponibile su: http://architettura.it/extended/20080924/index.htm (visitato il 03-08-11).
De Kerckhove, D. (1998), Connected Intelligence: the arrival of the web society, edited by Rowland W. (Ed) Kogan Page,
Londra.
Emery, N. (2011), Distruzione e progetto, Christian Mariotti editore, Milano.
Gombrich, E. H. (1979), Ideals and idols, Phaidon Press, Oxford.
Gregotti, V. (2010), Tre forme di architettura mancata, Giulio Einaudi editore, Torino.
Tagliagambe, S. (2010), ”L’innovazione e la creatività: tessitura di convergenza” relazione ad un convegno Modena-
Educazione, 21 ottobre 2010, disponibile su: http://www.luigiberlinguer.it/dettaglio/110680 (visitato il 19-03-2011).
a ‘caring’, mending, reusing, listening NOTES cost, to use locally available waste or
to those who live, reinterpreting, 1
I developed this theme in: Raiteri, R. abandoned materials, to introduce
collaborating, participating, as opposed (2008), Dietro le quinte dell’architettura: any device to promote sustainability
to the ideology of the tabula rasa innovazioni nella pratica quotidiana del of what is planned for the entire
(Emery, 2011). progetto, Maggioli editore. utility life cycle.
In an era of gigantism (the «bigness» by 2
Cited in Y. Benkler, La ricchezza della The aspects of sustainability are also
Koolhas) that remains an abstract pure rete, available at: http//welfarecremona. taking a metaphorical value that is
imagination in the students, the taking it/wmprint.php?ARTLD=8434 transmitted to the population and
care of what falls under one’s own (accessed 1 August 2011) local administration. This experience
direct experience, developing the whole 3
At the Faculty of Architecture will be published in the next issue of Il
process from concept to construction, of Genoa we came up with a progetto sostenibile Edicom Edizioni.
the introducing of the necessary mobile laboratory on the territory
innovative knowledge for the design, (RICICLAB), operating from a few
may be a necessary test for a good months, which activates small groups
education to the continuous self-study of volunteer students (appropriately
work in the future. selected) at the request of a local
It should not be missed, on the other authority, around the design of some
hand, opportunities to carry out more minor utilities (a meeting place for
complex and sophisticated design retired people at the seafront (Fig. 1),
experiments during the advanced years a tools shed, a shield for toilets in a
or during the graduate or doctoral park, etc.). The students must: to refer
thesis, with closer content links with with the place, to start a participatory
the results of research. process with residents, to build at zero-
Simple Systems – Abstract. The complexity of the cultural, social, economical and particularly ecological con-
text in which architecture is practised today necessitates design strategies and tactics that
Complex Capacities. achieve a high level of integration of seemingly opposed demands and criteria within the
material and construction systems we design. One possibility of unfolding novel synergies
Integrative Processes in such extreme conditions is to utilize the capacity of computers in the design process in
of Computational an alternative way, one that foregrounds and instrumentalizes the innate capacities of mate-
rials, manufacturing and construction processes rather than merely elaborating form in the
Morphogenesis digital realm. The computational approach that will be presented here questions the nature
of current design processes, but it is not a call for the replacement of the architect by com-
in Architecture puter driven design. Rather, under this approach, architects, instead of creating exuberant
shapes subsequently rationalised for constructability and superimposed functions, are able
to define specific material and construction systems by the combined logics of formation
and materialisation encoded in generative processes of computational morphogenesis.
Key words. Design process, Computational approach, Computational Morphogenesis,
Material and construction systems
01, 02, 03 |
AA Membrane Canopy 2007
Emergent Technologies and Design
Programme (M. Hensel, A. Menges, M.
Weinstock)
Architectural Association School of
Architecture
properties of the materials and production diversification of the elements and sub- Secondly the mostly heterogeneous,
processes used. The dataset underlying elements of a material system that is system-external influences tend to lead to
the respective material system results created by the interrelations with external an overall system made up of increasingly
from the capturing of the reciprocal influences and demands is referred to differentiated local adaptations. In other
dependencies of different system-inherent as differentiation. This is of decisive words the continuing (re)definition of
properties. These complex relationships, importance for the design-approach system and process-variables through
which result from the very materiality presented here, for two reasons. For precise values or the fixing of the
and its physical properties, the constraints one the differentiation is only reached weighting of certain parameters within
and the logic of production and assembly by means of Computational Design’s the generic framework leads to a specific
processes, thus constitute the basic set inherent capability to look at information instantiation of the system. The field
of information. The characteristics of and form separately, as only this allows of possibilities thereby opening up is
materialization are therefore part of the one to deal with systems that are defined multifaceted and complex. Therefore
genotypical features for the computer- through their degree of variability within the fixing of the system variables is not
based generation of the system. As all of the system-inherent confines and not goal oriented, also because the goal in
these features and rules have a specific through their specific shape or form. The most cases cannot be defined a priori.
bandwidth to different variables, inside becoming form in the hereby presented Rather the process of progressive
the framework of this definition there design- and research-approach is thus differentiation is a stochastic search,
is considerable space for developing the always based in the possibilities and comparable to the principles of natural
most diverse phenotypes, arising from the constraints of the actual materialization, evolution (Hemberg, Menges, O’Reilly,
interaction with external influences and as its properties and the scope of 2004). Generations of individual material
the constant reconciliation with spatial fluctuation of its variables are embedded systems are being generated this way.
and performative criteria. into the computational generative The interdependency with the relevant
The process of increasing structural processes. environmental influences and forces
resulting from the specific make-up of characterize the performative capacity of design-methodologically looked at in
each phenotype is then analyzed and the resulting material system. isolation, such as structural technology,
evaluated. The resulting interaction building physics, or space organizational
between the material arrangement of Simplexity in Architecture criteria, become part of an integrative
the system and its surrounding (macro-) The research- and design-approach generative process which directly includes
environment plays a major role in this, presented here in extracts is essentially the complex interrelations between
as it also leads to changes in the (micro-) based on treating the above described material system and performative
occurrences inside and beyond the interaction with external influences, capacity. The complexity of such
confines of the system. After this, based thus the performativity, and the interrelations requires moving from
on the evaluation criteria a selection ensuing modulation together as the focus on the singular shape to the
of the most effective systems is made, integral characteristics of the material recognition of patterns, which begin to
whose information sets, respectively systems that cannot be looked at in emerge during the process of increasing
whose crossbreeding represent the isolation. The interaction of the material differentiation of the system – in space
basis for the next generation of material arrangement with the specific (macro-) and in time. Thus computational design
system individuals. It’s important to note environment of space, load, climate, capitalizes on the computer’s potential to
that also spontaneous changes of the light, sound, etc. in which it is embedded balance multiple influential factors, carry
information sets can appear, that is so- causes local changes of the (micro-) out multiple processes and to deal with
called mutations, whereby the evolution occurrences inside and beyond the complex relationships and thereby makes
of the system represents essentially confines of the system. The modulation it possible to recognize patterns of such
an open system. In the course of this of the environment is refered to as the different nature during the design process
evolutionary process, the increasing performative effects of the material and to explore them in order to take
specificity of the local modulation of system. This means that partial aspects of advantage of the performative capacity
space, load, climate, light, sound, etc. construction systems which are currently which results from the integration of
REFERENCES
Burry, M. (2011), Scripting Cultures – Architectural Design and Programming, Wiley, London, pp. 40-42, ISBN: 978-
0470746417.
Hensel, M., Menges, A. (2008), “Inclusive Performance: Efficiency versus Effectiveness”, Architectural Design, Vol. 78 No.
2, pp. 54-63.
Hemberg, M., Menges, A., O’Reilly, U.-M. (2004), “Evolutionary Computation in Architecture“, Architectural Design, Vol.
74 No. 3, pp. 48-53.
Howard, R. (1998), Computing in Construction: Pioneers and the Future, Oxford/Woburn: Butterworth-Heinemann.
Lewis, W.J. (2003), Tension Structures: Form and Behavior, Thomas Telford Publishing, London.
Liu, Y.T., M., Lim, C.K. (2009), New Tectonics – Towards a New Theory of Digital Architecture, Birkhäuser, Basel, pp.
118-125.
Mark, E., Gross, M., Goldschmidt, G. (2008), “A Perspective on Computer Aided Design after Four Decades”, Architecture
in Computro, Proceeding of the 26th eCAADe Conference, Antwerpen (Belgium) 17-20 September 2008, 169 - 176.
Menges, A. (2006), “Polymorphism”, Architectural Design, Vol. 76 No. 2, pp. 78-87.
Menges, A. (2007), “Computational Morphogenesis”, Proceedings of the Third International Conference of the Arab
Society for Computer Aided Architectural Design (ASCAD), Alexandria (Egypt) 28-30 November 2007, pp. 725-744.
Menges, A. (2008), “Integral Formation and Materialisation: Computational Form and Material Gestalt”, in B. Kolarevic
and K. Klinger (ed.), Manufacturing Material Effects: Rethinking Design and Making in Architecture, Routledge, New York,
pp. 195–210.
Menges, A. (2010), “Form Generation and Materialization at the Transition from Computer-aided to Computational
Design”, Detail (English Edition), Vol. 2010 No. 04, pp. 330-335.
Moncrieff, E. (2005), “Systems for Lightweight Structure Design: the State-of-the-Art and Current Developments“,
Computation Methods in Applied Sciences, Volume 3, Springer, Berlin, pp.17-28.
Mueller, B., Newmann, H. (2003), Origination of organismal form, MIT Press, Cambridge.
Otto, F., Rasch, B. (1996), Finding Form, Edition Axel Menges, Stuttgart.
Terzidis, K. (2006), Algorithmic Architecture, Oxford: Architectural Press.
becoming form and becoming material in presented here is thus not based on the
a novel fashion. optimization of singular aspects, but on
The differentiation arising from the the evolving integration of a multitude of
computer-based evolutionary process criteria within one system. This leads to
has yet another important consequence. a functional redundancy with respect to
Certain characteristics, which evolved certain single characteristics, but makes
during the differentiation of the individual the overall system very robust. This type
material systems on the basis of specific of overarching robustness is yet another
requirements, may turn out to possess significant result of evolutionary criteria.
performative qualities that are unrelated Keeping in mind that any architectural
to the initial criteria. This performative design is always an intervention in a de
integration is very different from the facto unknown future the concept of
approach of optimizing functionally robustness as a basic property of evolved
separate subsystems that is still systems in architecture can take on much
common in architecture and the related broader implications. Differentiation,
engineering sciences today. In contrast heterogeneity and robustness become
to this, the approach described here can a component of social, economical and
be understood as a gradient system, ecological sustainability.
which does not need to be functionally The complex material systems that arise
subdivided into subsystems, but which from reciprocities are fundamentally
can cover a whole range of performative different from the designed complicated
criteria within a small set of system levels. constructions of contemporary
The research- and design-approach architecture. In contrast to their overly
04 |
elaborate nature that is often regarded As of yet, the feasibility of the presented
as a goal in itself, the differentiation research and related design approach
of a material system results from the towards integrative computational
particular spatial, structural, climatic, morphogenesis based on readily available
luminous or acoustic conditions or construction materials has been proven in
criteria. The evolutionary processes at the a number of full scale prototypes.
same time ensure that this differentiation
occurs within the solution space of
materialization. This means that within
the search space set by materiality,
production and assembly, novel
possibilities can be found. Here, the main
investment is of a design methodological,
intellectual nature. Therefore the
04, 05 |
research- and design-approach presented
here does not require exotic materials ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010
or expensive production processes, but ICD Institute for Computational Design
can actually become relevant precisely (Prof. A. Menges)
in contexts with scarce resources. It
enables the creation of relatively simple ITKE Institute of Building Structures and
systems out of readily available materials Structural Design (Prof. J. Knippers)
which, through their differentiation, can Faculty of Architecture and Urban
develop complex performative capacities. Planning, University of Stuttgart
Verso una cultura I temi della qualità e della produttività scientifica rappresentano ormai
della valutazione per gli Atenei una priorità e l’attuale quadro legislativo incentiva gli
approcci fondati sulla cultura della valutazione, prevedendo che
l’attività di ricerca delle strutture universitarie sia valutata a partire
dalla produzione dei singoli ricercatori.
Il dibattito evidenzia altresì quanto la cultura della valutazione
richieda di tener conto della qualità e dei contenuti dei prodotti, senza
innescare rischiose ‘rincorse’ alla produttività ma promuovendo prassi
virtuose che riescano ad elevare la rilevanza scientifica dei contributi,
coerentemente con le caratterizzazioni dei vari ambiti disciplinari. La
stringente attualità del tema è, fra l’altro, avvalorata dal fatto che in un
recente documento dell’ANVUR (Agenzia Nazionale di Valutazione
del Sistema Universitario e della Ricerca), sono individuati due grandi
raggruppamenti (tecnico-scientifico e umanistico) all’interno dei
quali attuare il confronto della produzione scientifica1. Rispetto a tale
inquadramento è auspicabile che siano meglio graduate le specificità
disciplinari proprie dell’area dell’Architettura e introdotti correttivi
all’interno dei due macro-raggruppamenti, così come è esplicitato nei
The project as product Abstract. The topic of project as product of research for the Area of Architecture can
be considered therefore central for tradition, for the recognized value on social, econo-
of scientific research mic and environmental effects of the works of architecture and, finally, for the declared
accreditation from scientific bodies and evaluation structures of Athenaeums.
As it is not reasonable to imagine an automatic correspondence between project and
its research value, such value is clearly verifiable when for it are underlined specific
qualifications in base to genetic peculiarity, to particular operational developments, to
exemplary modes of production, to evident cultural, social, economic and environmen-
tal effects.
Within the various components of the design introduced recently by the CUN (National
University Council), the reference of technological design to the problem solving field,
in which it is possible to organize decision-making abilities and manage information
for the project success, refers to the knowledge fields and to the activities that interact
with the know-how, with the method and with the simultaneity of theoretical and prac-
tical knowledge.
Key words: Evaluation, Technological design, Researches for the project, Complexity,
Innovation
The debate also highlights how the explained in the general criteria of the for comparability and accreditation
culture of evaluation requires to ANVUR document and as was shown of the scientific production of areas
consider the quality and the contents by statements of intent during audits and scientific sectors based on the
of the scientific products, without with some ANVUR components. On proposal of CUN (National University
triggering dangerous ‘run-up’ these topics an important debate has Council) will also be considered.
toward productivity but promoting been implemented in departmental Within a general framework directed
virtuous practices that can elevate the and faculties structures that, for to evaluation systems both quantitative
importance of scientific contributions, scientific areas such as Architecture, and qualitative, it is highlighted since
coherently with the various disciplinary has identify consistent criteria with a long time the need for the Area 08
areas. The pressing value of the theme the terms in which research is made – Architecture, to define an internal
is supported by a recent ANVUR on a national level. The procedures ranking of the research products,
paper (National Agency of Evaluation of scientific production typical of in order to avoid distortions in the
and Research of the University the area 08 – Architecture, in their assessment due to the application of
System) where two major groupings generality do not provide categories criteria specific of other areas with
are identified (technical-scientific of ISI products, citation indexes or different specificities. The action
and humanistic) within which the use of H-Index to measure the promoted from 2008 by the CPA
implement the comparison of scientific impact of the research work. The (National Conference of Deans of
production1. grading criteria for scientific products the Faculties of ) through the study
Compared to this framework, it is of the National Research Registry of of the evaluation systems mostly
desirable that the specific disciplinary the CINECA and universities criteria accredited and already used by the
contents of the architecture areas will be for the researches evaluation, will Italian universities and the institution
better graded, introducing correctives have to interact with the guidelines of the Research Commission of CPA,
within the two major groupings, as proposed by ANVUR. The proposals has led to the identification of research
products consistent with the established In the recent document Criteria, tradition, for the recognized value on
procedures of scientific production indicators and parameters for national social, economic and environmental
in the Faculties of Architecture. scientific enabling in which the CUN effects of the works of architecture and,
Research Commission worked also defines the requirements for scientific finally, for the declared accreditation
for the identification of criteria and works of Area 08 - Architecture, from bodies like CPA, CUN, CINECA
indicators for evaluation. In addition however, are clearly identified as and numerous evaluation structures
to publishing, in its documents the products of research «projects featuring of Athenaeums.
CPA has highlighted projects, planning innovative works and artifacts Such topic requires some passages
and research for the project as central characterized by high science and and reflections starting from the value
products in architectural research. technology contents (published in of the project as complex product
In addition to planning, it is scientific journals with a critical essay whose score, in terms of ranking, must
intended to remark that conception, by another author, published in a book be compared for example to other
development and production of the with a critical essay by another author, typologies of products, also from
project is the main object of teaching or published in catalogs of exhibitions other CUN Areas. The project must
and research in architecture, together with Scientific Committee) that satisfy be set besides in relationship both
with the research instruments for the the scientific criteria specified in the to innovative operational practices
project in which it is dealt with complex CUN advice of 24.2.2010». and the development of normative
cultural issues, as well as decision- situation (related, for example, to
making and information aspects related Project as scientific activity of safety conditions, to comfort and to
to the phases of building process, with knowledge and prefiguration energy output in buildings), both
the industrial production and the The topic of project as product of to the transformations of public
construction management and with research for the area of architecture administration and professional world.
several intervention contexts. can be considered therefore central for The current social and ethics instances
compared to various ‘crises’ (economic, in its physical structures but also of prefiguration and anticipation and it is
climatic, energetic) direct the project managerial and functional aspects, characterized as a process of complex
toward a greater and inevitable with implications that invest an and multidisciplinary nature. A project
complexity and toward an ability ample spectrum of problems such as is finalized to the resolution of a datum
to answer to the pressing demands creative, technical-scientific, economic, problem to realize, generally, artifacts
rising in numerous areas today, from anthropological and ethics issues. for the human, social and economic
inhabiting to sustainable development. Physically modifying the environment progress and explicit itself as ‘action
It deals with an articulated subject in which people lives, an architectural of knowledge’, analytical or synthetic
that requires to consider numerous project contributes to form a complex depending to the phases and the
problematic knots. As it is not system of relationships between the problems that it has to face.
reasonable to imagine an automatic man and urbanized and natural spaces. The project generally has a practical
correspondence between project and In its general lines, the project activity goal, inside which the process of
its research value, such value is clearly has therefore a point of specific arrival knowledge turns into organized
verifiable when for it are underlined and a clear development from the phase learning in logical form, rationally
specific qualifications in base to genetic of planning up to the realization and communicable and liable of
peculiarity, to particular operational to its conclusion. The project works verifications inter-subjective, although
developments, to exemplary modes of on blocks of aims, activities, tools and rational will implies also the creative
production, to evident cultural, social, abilities, it consolidates itself through contribution (Renna, 1970). The
economic and environmental effects. recursive actions that incorporates component of imagination operates as
The project and the activity of new information and new variable, tool of knowledge, starting from the
designing research in architecture it is related to analytical, inductive, assumption that, in decisive moments
are aimed to prefigure future orders deductive or analogical procedures. and in every area of knowledge, the
with transformations of a context The project concerns the area of mind works according to a process
of associations of information, that The project activity sees the overcoming to the project type and the demand
is the fastest system to connect the of the conventional ‘one director’ figure characteristics.
endless forms of the possible, keeping (single subject or group), head of a From these complex developments, a
in mind of combinations and choosing team of many specialists external to structured debate has emerged in recent
those that answer to the preset goals the architecture field (structural, plant, years, whose outcomes are found, for
(Starobinski, in Calvino, 1993). geotechnical engineers, geologists, example, in the scientific areas new
The project is in fact the result of accountants, sociologists, etc.). The definitions proposed by the CUN that,
a continuous process of interpretation inevitable knowledge integration from those characteristics, attribute to
of reality with the help both of objective produces new configurations within design precise specifications in the areas
elements, both of creative contributions the project teams; new architecture of architecture technology, urban and
of those people able ‘to read it’ specialists bring ‘other’ skills which, regional planning. Far from wanting to
(Tagliagambe, 2005), representing every although within the architectural unravel the design into a sum of several
time a ‘unique product’ and the place project, express remarkable knowledge components, this proposal reflects the
of the multiplicity of the relationships and bespoke skills in many fields, obvious specializations within Area
among varying, agents, subjects and such as environment, restoration, 08 - Architecture, that contribute, in an
contextual conditions, but also an area history, technology, urban planning. organic way, both to the teaching and
of the study of such connections and Innovative management methods of the formulation of scientific products in
the result of a process that develops project production, which represent the fields of project, plans and research
from deterministic passages to actions an advanced research response in the for the project.
of synthetic-intuitive character. current period of crisis, give rise to The presence of technological design
‘networks of expertise’ between various refers to a broad and trans-disciplinary
Technological design and research structures, whose connection from time context focused on knowledge,
activity to time depends on the requests related methods and tools to respond
Valutare il progetto A valle della individuazione da parte della CPA della centralità
e le ricerche per il dei «progetti» e delle «ricerche per il progetto» come prodotti di
progetto ricerca, per ciascun prodotto la Conferenza dei Presidi delle Facoltà
di Architettura ha proposto specifici criteri di valutazione in base
a indicatori e modalità di accreditamento3. Da un lato sono stati
individuati elementi di fortuna critica e di riconoscimento nell’ambito
della comunità scientifica (prodotti pubblicati in rivista oppure in libro
con testo critico di altro autore, prodotti esposti in mostre o pubblicati
in cataloghi di mostre con comitato scientifico), dall’altro elementi per
un riconoscimento dei prodotti in termini di vaglio di commissioni e
di ricadute sul piano operativo (prodotti premiati, prodotti realizzati
nelle diverse forme caratteristiche dei SSD dell’Area 08 quali un’opera
costruita, un piano adottato, un ‘artefatto’ realizzato).
to specific verifiable parameters. the method and with the simultaneity the building process, production
Technological design, based on a of theoretical and practical knowledge companies, etc.) within which a project
systemic and performance disciplinary (Nardi, 1997; Nardi, 2003). The value or an artifact develops and is eventually
approach within the process stages of the technology component in greater realized as a built work considering the
related to the design, production and complexity projects and in relation/ social, economic and environmental
management of works and artifacts, integration with type-morphological implications.
expresses its project ability according aspects, highlights the importance of
to a knowledge and progressive technology choices both in decision- Assessing the project and the
‘revelation’2 path, in which have making and in those moments of researches for the project
a prominent role activities, timing, ‘political’ and strategy value, in which Downstream of the identification
cost, quality, and aspects of production, to evaluate, for example, not only the by the CPA of the «projects» and
management and operations, whose results of the first degree but also the the «researches for the project» as
declination takes place also on the secondary and induced effects of these research products, for each product
basis of experimental and innovative choices (Scoccimarro, 2008). the Conference of the Deans of the
instrument or the verifiability of the The specificity of technological Faculties of Architecture has proposed
results. design also fits within a framework specific assessment criteria based
The reference of technological design of enhancing the project information on indicators and accreditation
to the problem solving field, in which it content, in order to overcome the procedures3. On the one hand,
is possible to organize decision-making ineffectiveness of its outcomes and evidence was found of critical acclaim
abilities and manage information the decision-making, executive and and recognition within the scientific
for the project success, refers to the managerial criticalities. Relevant community (products published in
knowledge fields and to the activities variables involved are the contexts magazines or books with a critical
that interact with the know-how, with (the natural or man-made environment, essay by another author, products
exhibited or published in exhibition products will qualify when is evident phenomena of the processes of land
catalogs by a Scientific Committee); on the transferability of the results, the transformation, or specify the ‘way’ of
the other hand elements for a credit of elements of disciplinary progress, the the project, helping to understand how
the products in terms of commissions’ originality of contributions with regard to do, how to choose, how to address.
selection and impact on the operational to specific works topics, the exemplary With the entrusting to organizations
level (award-winning products, proposed solutions, the resolutive value and university professors based
products realized in the different forms of specific critical issues. on their qualified accreditation to
of the SSD of the Area 08 as built In some disciplines, including the Public Administrations, Associations,
works, adopted plan, ‘artifact’ realized). technology field, gain importance the Institutions, industries, businesses,
In general terms, to a quality project component of «the research for the professional world, these products can
a research value can be attributed if it project», that is research products be assessed, as well as through forms of
meets parameters of relevance of the different from the traditionally sense of ‘critical acclaim’ (with quotes attributed
design topic, of a coherence of method, project and developed in an innovative to the exemplary work for its value
of the representation adequacy and of and original way in terms of university innovative or thematic, etc.), also based
the technical-descriptive restitution, of research methods (as in the case of on documented reasons, certificates,
the innovation in its many variations. meta-projects, guide lines, manuals, commission analysis, adoptions by
On another level, the project and the catalogues, technical specifications, public bodies.
researches for the project can respond strategic documents, preliminary Finally, what remains a sensitive issue
in terms of research to different types studies, technical standards, is the teachers contribution to projects
of questions in the field of studies regulations, maintenance programs, and researches for the project while
funded by public or private4, by third etc.). In other cases, the researches for in other contexts – such as medicine
parties, by competitions or calls from the project include systematic analysis – it is affirmed the inseparability of
public or private . These research and elaboration of issues, themes and operating functions from those of
NOTE
1
Documento del 22.6.2011 dell’ANVUR (Agenzia Nazionale di Valutazione
del Sistema Universitario e della Ricerca), dal titolo Criteri e parametri di
valutazione dei candidati e dei commissari dell’abilitazione scientifica nazio-
nale, all’interno del quale si dichiara l’intendimento di valutare i singoli ri-
cercatori in base al valore medio del proprio SSD sul piano nazionale.
2
Secondo M. Heidegger la tecnica è un modo dell’aletheyein, un modo del
disvelare e cioè della ricerca di verità. «In quanto disvelamento, quindi, e
non in quanto fabbricazione, la téchne è un pro-durre» (Heidegger, 1976,
pp. 9, 10).
3
Documento della Conferenza dei Presidi delle Facoltà di Architettura,
Commissione Ricerca - Criteri di valutazione per le pubblicazioni e i proget-
ti, bozza del 19.7.2011.
4
U. Cao, Note introduttive sulle questioni base del Forum, relazione tenuta al
Forum Fare e insegnare architettura in Italia, promosso da PRO-ARCH, Co-
ordinamento Nazionale dei Docenti di Progettazione Architettonica ICAR
14-15-16, Ischia, Casamicciola (Napoli), 8-9 aprile 2011.
REFERENCES
Heidegger, M. (1976), “La questione della tecnica”, in Saggi e discorsi, Mursia, Milano.
Nardi G. (1997), (a cura di), Aspettando il progetto, Franco Angeli, Milano, p. 56.
Nardi, G. (2003), Percorsi di un pensiero progettuale, Clup, Milano.
Renna, A. (1970), “Architettura e pensiero scientifico”, in AA. VV., L’analisi urbana e la progettazione architettonica, Clup,
Milano.
A. Scoccimarro, A. (2008), “I fattori esogeni dell’innovazione tecnologica: l’eteronomia della tecnica”, in Torricelli, M. C. e
Lauria A. (2008) (a cura di), Ricerca, tecnologia, architettura, ETS, Pisa.
Starobinski, J., cit. in Calvino, I. (1993), Lezioni americane, Mondadori, Milano, p.102.
Tagliagambe, S. (2005), Le due vie della percezione e l’epistemologia del progetto, Franco Angeli, Milano.
teaching and researching. For the specifically dedicated to research and is a way of aletheyein and a way of
quality of education and research, it is specifically funded, such as University revealing, that is the search of truth.
not desirable that those who teach or Centers of Excellence, Laboratories, «Being a revealing, then, and not a
do research in the field of the project Departments, university Consortia. manufacturing, téchne is a pro-duce
cannot cultivate continuously practical (production)» (Heidegger, 1976, pp.
and quality design experiences. The NOTES 9, 10).
interdiction for full-time professors 1
Document of 22.6.2011 by ANVUR 3
Document of the Conference of
to be part of project teams, on the - National Agency of Evaluation and Deans of the Faculties of Architecture,
one hand relegates, in an improperly Research of the University System, Research Commission - Evaluation
and equivocal way, the project to a entitled Criteria and benchmarks for criteria for projects and publications,
mere professional occupation (activity assessing candidates and Commissioners draft of 19.7.2011.
now carried out only by part-time for national scientific approval, within 4
U. Cao, Note introduttive sulle
professors), on the other hand requires is declared the intention to evaluate questioni base del Forum, sponsored by
the overcome of the inequality of individual researchers based on PRO-ARCH, National Coordination
opportunity and treatment of the the average value of its scientific of Architectural Planning Professors
university professors, ensuring that disciplinary cluster compared with the ICAR 14-15-16, Ischia, Casamicciola,
the project research can be carried national level. (Naples), 8-9 April 2011.
out jointly by all, even in contexts 2
According to M. Heidegger, technical
Evaluation of research Mario Losasso In your influential role at ANVUR, do you believe it is at all possible to
somehow grade the subdivision between the techno-scientific field and the humanistic field,
and project: an interview which has recently been making inroads into the area of research evaluation? It brings up a
with Andrea Bonaccorsi particularly ‘sensitive’ point for the project, which is programmatically a synthesis between
elements pertaining to exact science and human science.
Andrea Bonaccorsi I believe that the evaluation of research should stem
programmatically from respect for the way in which scientific communities produce
legitimate findings and manage their circulation. Evaluation cannot impose uniform
modalities or tamper with the autonomy of scientific communities. As regards this
aspect, there is ample evidence of the fact that the communication of scientific results
follows diverse paths: the main way is through international journals of hard science,
through international journals and proceedings of congresses in engineering and (in
part) computer science, while the human and social sciences achieve a mix of products,
in which monographs are essential parts and the language used is also the national
language. Naturally this diversity creates difficult problems in terms of measuring things
quantitatively: journal articles are accessible independently through databases, and
citations from article to article constitute a reasonable indicator of the quality of the
research, while none of that happens for papers and journals in Italian. In this regard,
then, it needs to be established whether the prevalence of publications in Italian forms
an intrinsic part of the production of findings (if I study Petrarca I express myself
ISSN online: 2239-0243 better in Italian; if I comment on an Italian law I will have almost exclusively Italian
© 2011 Firenze University Press language readers), or if it is not the legacy of a cultural and scientific situation that
http://www.fupress.com/techne requires being put squarely on the international stage. In this regard, I believe that it is
an individual work, cannot be either result of a form of expressive rationality evaluated! That means that one cannot
helped or hindered by any kind of work that doesn’t need the validation of a claim that the project is by itself the
by anyone else, it nevertheless needs community, but instead is aimed at subject of evaluation. The scientific
to be recognised that insofar as art creating a community of its own – the work on the project, before and after it
sheds light on established laws, once community of colour that values that is realised, is the subject of evaluation,
industry has popularized them existing expressive form. That is true in the as well as the way it is presented to
artwork loses a little of its originality in major works of artists, but it is also the community in compliance with
retrospect». central to the world of the project. If it the rules of scientific literature. In
wasn’t so, we would merely have before a nutshell, it is the collection of
This characteristic has a crucial us forms no more or less sophisticated publications which accompany the
implication in terms of evaluation. than problem solving. project and circulate in the community
One can evaluate only what is To assume the Proustian doctrine, one that disseminates knowledge.
considered to be knowledge legitimized can evaluate only what contributes to In a way, the project receives social
by a scientific community, or what the progress of science, that which is recognition in its own right in other
emerges from forms of communication «helped or hindered by the work of forms, including a reputation that
and themes selected autonomously by others». Art cannot be evaluated, in the is both social and economic. To
the community. Evaluation of research precise sense that it has to wait for the use an evangelical expression: «You
serves to grade the quality of results, recognition of its uniqueness, not by have already received your reward».
with appropriate methodologies, the scientific community but by society From the scientific point of view,
supplying ex-post indicators. as a whole. surgeons cannot be evaluated for their
Strictly speaking, on the other hand, So in a certain sense there is inside operations, jurists for their opinions
one cannot evaluate an aesthetic the project an element that can be in court, nor engineers for calculation
product. The aesthetic product is the evaluated, and one that cannot be codes, but each of these activities
needs to be accompanied by products sphere and the professional sphere definition, a profession obtains
accepted for publication by their cannot be found in the object of the economic value from the uniqueness
respective scientific communities. activity, only in the pattern of the of its services. The professional is
organisation of the work and the not limited to applying a body of
Mario Losasso Bearing in mind the economic considerations. knowledge, but produces solutions for
inseparability between the mastery of For all the artificial sciences, to use the the client, adapting knowledge related
operational functions and of teaching expression of Herbert Simon, there is to the specific situation and providing
and research, recognised as they are an inseparability between practice and services that are therefore unique to
in many fields of knowledge, how is it research. That goes for social sciences, that location. Especially highly regarded
possible to reconcile the ‘necessity’ of like law and economics, or applied is the element of adaptation and
conceiving projects and constructing sciences, like engineering or medicine. uniqueness; higher still the economic
works of architecture on behalf of It is also a most appropriate notion, I value that can be extracted by the client.
teachers in the area of the project would say, by virtue of the aesthetic- Because of this economic structure of
with the current restrictions on the performative element, for architecture evaluating knowledge, the profession
development of such activities? The and design. You can’t teach what you does not cultivate a dissemination of
teachers in the field of the project find don’t practise. So it doesn’t make sense knowledge, nor the development of
themselves in a paradoxical situation, to draw a precise outline on the basis of methods that further the possibility
comparable with that of a teacher a legal definition of the activity as such. of replicating the results. A highly
of surgery who has to teach surgical However, an important difference valued surgeon benefits from the fact
operations on patients without ever exists in the way in which operational of being the only person who uses a
having performed any... activities are carried out by the certain technique. The diffusion of the
Andrea Bonaccorsi I find that the academics on one hand and the collection of knowledge that sustains
distinction between the academic professionals on the other. By his practice would diminish his value.
Here there is an important difference application of already-documented evaluation of its impact. The first is
with the academy. Those who work knowledge to specific cases. an exercise, continuing or episodic, in
in universities are not under pressure I confess that this distinction is not which the evaluators act ‘on behalf of ’
to extract an economic value, if not easily translatable into a legal form, the scientific community and evaluate
just on the margins, from their own mainly because the production of the intended quality of results, such
knowledge, because it has already been results carries the assumption of as relevance, originality, innovation
‘paid for’ by the State. It is implicit in responsibility towards third parties that within the scientific work. The State is
the contract the modern State makes belong to the professional world rather interested in this evaluation because
with the academy that there is a request than the academic one. But my opinion it knows that only good research
not to prevent but to spread knowledge, is that the separation between teaching produces positive effects on society.
to organise it, to codify it, to reproduce and practice is damaging. On another level, in the evaluation
it¸ and to circulate knowledge, of impact the evaluators act directly
including when it has a relevant Mario Losasso In evaluating research, ‘on behalf of ’ society and so different
practical element. in what terms do you believe that it is questions are asked. The criteria for
This distinction brings along important possible to consider the fact that project social impact do not coincide with
practical consequences: the academy and research represent instruments of those of quality, even if they are not
should be involved in the practice when knowledge and transformation of reality, orthogonal to them.
it is the provider of new knowledge, often bearers of important innovations We need to say that while in the
can generate creative or radically and cultural, social and economic spin- evaluation of quality there have been
new solutions, or bring about new offs? experiences backed up by findings in
competencies, while it should not be Andrea Bonaccorsi We need to other countries and an ample body of
involved – it should programmatically distinguish between the evaluation knowledge and of techniques, when it
‘decline’ to be – where all there is the of the quality of research and the comes to evaluating impact we are at
the beginning. There are pilot schemes considered acceptable. In the case time, it would be important to begin
in Holland and in several Scandinavian of publication in Italian journals, experimental initiatives for building
countries. As far as this topic goes, I believe that we need to move citation databases among journals and
ANVUR will begin a full consultation rapidly towards a system of national books in Italian.
in 2012 and start some methodological rating that corresponds to rigorous When the project constitutes an
work so as to promote the topic. methodological criteria. It will not integral part of the evaluation, in the
be possible to accept simple lists of sense that the publication cannot be
Mario Losasso What do you believe journals considered suitable by the interpreted without complying with the
can be some of the common indicators scientific community, unless they are material entirety of the project, it will
of the project and of the research for the a starting point for introducing internal be necessary to proceed systematically
project, bearing in mind the consolidated distinctions, both numerical and through forms of peer review and
patterns of production of research on the based on categories. A different line to consider publication and project
part of the scientific community in the of reasoning will have to be set down, together.
area of architecture in the national and probably over a long period of time, I believe that the setting up of
international arena? for volumes in Italian. It’s important the Evaluation of the Quality of
Andrea Bonaccorsi Insofar as the that the level of information increases Research (EQR) 2004-2010 will be
project is supported by scientific around the procedures for accepting an extraordinary occasion for starting
publications, these will follow the manuscripts and selecting authors – a dialogue between the scientific
relative logic of evaluation, with a in terms of transparent editorial rules, community of the project and ANVUR
mix of bibliometric and peer review detailed information to the authors, in the search for innovative solutions.
indicators. the use of anonymous referees, the
In relation to international publications, collegiality of editorial decisions,
bibliometric indicators can be openness to competition. At the same
The university Abstract. A reflection on the role of design in real contexts, within the scope of uni-
versity missions: training, research and knowledge transfer. The project understood
and design practice not only as experimentation, but also as a necessary test of the quality of research
and training in architecture. The best testing laboratory is reality itself, which under-
stands the rules of the market; it is therefore important for Faculties of Architecture
to identify specific facilities which, under current regulations and university bylaws,
allow the development of design activities for the transfer of knowledge from rese-
arch to society.
Key words: University, Research, Design, Experimentation, Knowledge Transfer
test is reality itself. For research and resources allocated to the university, link with research to be developed in
experimental design the most effective competition between schools competitive situations.
context is the design market where, of architecture at European and As part of the Knowledge Transfer
under real conditions, research can international level will become more mission it is thus important for
be conducted on solutions to complex pronounced, and schools that manage Faculties of Architecture to identify
and innovative design problems, to develop these activities within the specific facilities which, under
both in relation to agreements University will have an advantage in current regulations and their also
with public administrations and, the scientific and cultural updating of uncertain interpretations (as we can
primarily, in open competitions and teachers and the capacity to attract for read in Ernesto Antonini’s excellent
fair competitions: ideas competitions, certified professional training. contribution), allow these particular
design competitions and design The problem specifically affects full- knowledge transfer activities to
services competitions of a particularly time professors and young researchers develop. Therefore we are not talking
innovative nature, which result who work on design issues and about the performance of normal
in the winner taking on design otherwise run the risk, in times of professional activities, but setting up
responsibility. rapid change in design practices and facilities that can legitimately carry
Clearly the university’s role and technological innovations, of not out design activities, independently
contribution will always be connected staying sufficiently up-to-date and or in association with professional
to the transfer of specific knowledge thus being less effective and credible organizations, characterized by
derived from research and to the as instructors. Nor can we think that complexity and innovation, which
very development of the research and all teachers will become fixed-term in actually represent the transfer of
experimentation – it could not be order to professionally develop design knowledge from research to society.
otherwise. practice, and besides the intention is Based on the experience of managing
Against a backdrop of reduced not this but rather to promote a strong a large school of architecture with a
01 | Workshop di
documentazione e
progettazione sul centro
storico di Perm (Russia),
Facoltà di Architettura UNIFI,
Prof. Stefano Bertocci
Documentation and designing
workshop on the historic
centre of Perm (Russia),
Faculty of Architecture UNIFI,
Prof. Stefano Bertocci
01 |
02 |
03 |
Natura del piano e sue Nei numerosi scritti sull’opposizione tra programmazione e
condizioni d’essere progettazione una delle schematizzazioni più ricorrenti è quella che
si appunta sulla loro natura: una di tipo eminentemente analitica,
Il piano è progetto l’altra sintetica. È però del tutto evidente che tale manicheismo diventa
inaccettabile quando l’analiticità della programmazione diviene un
ostacolo a qualsiasi capacità di sintesi, alla possibilità di costruire
senso e consenso. Tale e restrittiva interpretazione sarebbe quindi
pericolosa: renderebbe l’azione celibe. E ancor più oggi in cui, grazie
a trattamenti numerici che viaggiano alla velocità della luce, l’analisi è
diventata non più molare ma molecolare aprendo mondi in cui è fin
troppo facile perdersi. È per tale ragione che la mia preferenza va al
termine pianificazione piuttosto che a quello di programmazione per
la possibilità di attribuire alla prima non la semplice regolamentazione
di fatti ma la produzione di un disegno strategico non necessariamente
razionale e necessario, comunque ragionevole.
Il piano diventa quindi la risposta all’esigenza di progettualità, alla
capacità di sintesi, alla possibilità di far emergere gli aspetti significativi
del problema da sottoporre al vaglio del ‘principe’: l’incarnazione
di aspetti essenziali e prevalenti rispetto all’elaborazione di analitici
programmi operativi atti a regolare un processo minuziosamente
The plan as a project Abstract. The article outlines a methodology for the building planning, which is the
result of studies and applied research carried out by the author over recent decades for
comprehending its process the reorganisation of school networks, intermunicipal multipolar universities, university
campuses and parallel experiences for the reshaping of hospital centres and structural
healthcare systems on a large scale.
The method reproposes the open project and metaproject making its operability topical
in light of the recent paradigms of rational methods of practice and the opportunities
offered by IT and value management. The aim is to present the project-related nature
of the plan as a project comprehending its process, focusing on designing a dynamic
and interactive pathway, one that might even be disconnected, capable of highlighting,
interacting and composing the majority of material and immaterial resources for the
construction of sense and consensus.
Key words. School building assessment, Feasibility study, Masterplanning, Collective
intelligence, Knowledge management
dangerous: it would make planning meticulously defined and meets the unable to manage complexity, has left
ineffective. Especially today, when administrator’s checking requirements. ample scope for private promoters,
thanks to digital processing travelling at The ‘plan as a project’ requires a turning towards partial solutions
the speed of light, analysis is no longer new skill that can no longer lean on to the problem. These solutions can
molar but rather molecular, opening analytical-rationalist methods and on occasionally be creative, but often only
up worlds in which it is very easy to get cause-effect logics according to which, to the benefit of a few, sacrificing the
lost. It is for this reason that I favour until yesterday, the transformation of system of guarantees. Examples of this
the term planning over programming. western land and cities took place. can be seen in office buildings, malls,
The former, not only allows for the In more recent history, rational hypermarkets, airports, new symbols
mere regulation of facts but for the approaches to urban planning have of post-modern urban society. In other
production of a strategic design, been replaced by methods to make words, the junkspace cynically praised
which is not necessarily rational and uncertain, confusing, indeterminate, by Koolhaas, where in the apotheosis of
necessary, however reasonable. very often shady constructions, in the plurality of choices, it is no longer
The plan, therefore, is a response to the which the collage city is the only shape possible to reconstruct cause and effect,
need for project capacity, the capacity that can inevitably and necessarily be so that the only possible purpose for
of synthesizing and highlighting the created. The urban plan becomes the these buildings is that of functionality.
meaningful aspects of the problem result of ‘project approach’ planning, In such a scenario, which Baudrillard
to be submitted to ‘The Prince’ for a practice of technical politics and a describes as ‘the ecstasy of excrescence’,
examination: an embodiment of reflection of a planetary scale financial a catastrophic condition of a society
essential and predominant features. merging. This practice was born out faced with an increased sense of
This is in contrast to the elaboration of the neo-liberalist policies of the uncertainty becomes exhausted,
of operating analytical programmes ‘80s which, for the sake of laissez-faire stunned, inert and apathetic, the urban
suitable to regulate a process which is and based on a weak concept that was plan loses its strategic function, only
to change into a recomposition of of contemporaneity, we should mention and open accumulation of knowledge
what it is. It does not anticipate and those that are borrowing the new through which to direct choices and
lead the transformation, but becomes paradigms of rationality, or better, prevent rigidly blocked solutions from
the justification of the status quo, of sensibleness, which are found in precluding an effective re-modulation
the run-up to an on-going change disciplines that are closer to mankind, of objectives. An act which ensures a
and, even worse, the place where such as sociology and anthropology. In more adequate satisfaction of changing
interests are indulged: a reification particular, in qualitative research and needs which can alter as the plan
of asymmetrical choices managed by in Grounded Theory which assumes develops. This has strong similarities
hardly-representative decision-makers, that there are no predefined theses to with ‘The Open Project’, often seen as
where the only weak stakeholder be proved, but that the results are the an element of strong destabilisation
is, almost always, the community. outcome of the observer’s involvement of the objectives of certainty and
This catastrophic condition attempts with the observed phenomenon and the control of the final result. More
to recompose itself in large scale therefore his/her ability to give sense to specifically, it bears similarities with
metropolitan plans, whose practice still his/her own actions. These abilities are the distinctive elaboration of the
has trouble in procuring efficient tools operational capacities which during the discipline of technology that is the
and methods capable of satisfying the implementation of the plan translate Metaprogetto, intended no longer as
large number of people that the plan into the capacity to comprehend, that a ‘matrix of multiple projects’ with
will necessarily affect. is, to embrace reality in its entirety, to an unlimited discretionary power,
give sense and meaning rather than but as a tool for progressive decision-
The comprehensive plan complying with laws and to encompass making, able to define, at various and
Among the possible planning practices and promote contribution rather than more appropriate times, the objectives
that today, more than others, seems to the separation of skills1. which are definable up until that point,
be able to effectively face the challenge It is a comprehensive act, a gradual and the corresponding monitoring
and management methods. Planning endowment of a plan, master plan, University and Research and the
must, therefore, be understood in plan directeur, is a mandatory and individual universities. In Italian
this sense. It is a project-related essential prerequisite to start any schools, however, the start-up of a
action, but a project-related action as operation concerning the structure ‘system-based’ planning triggered the
a plan that is aware of the existence of school and university property, in launch of vertical institutes. However,
of a process rather than a product. Italy the ‘system-based’ approach for this form of planning was ignored when
Capable of comprehending, that is, of infrastructural design is a rather recent it was first introduced. This act (Law
pointing out and appropriately causing practice. In 1994, the regulations of 97/1994), known to professionals as the
an interaction over time of material Legge Merloni on public works clearly ‘Law of the mountain’ and passed as
resources, knowledge and know-how identified one of the key elements an exceptional provision to keep small
which may be contrasting in order to of reliability of the entire process in schools in mountain villages going,
reconstruct a sense shared by most the programming phase and made offered the possibility of combining in
people. An argumentative, possibly provisions for the compulsory use of one vertical institute the management
even a disconnected, operating system programming tools. Even despite this of a nursery school, primary and lower
capable of simplifications, but at the fact, the administrations in charge of secondary school.
same time able to use all the cognitive the management of the school and A negligible fluttering of butterfly wings
potentials made available by the university property very infrequently which, as often happens, triggered
new information technologies and or superficially implement such plans. a violent ‘earthquake’ in the school’s
management sciences. One of the impulses for medium-long organisational engine and in the
term capacity projects in universities buildings housing it. The prospect of
The state of the art in school and was represented by the Accordi di contained costs for the first pioneering
university structural system planning Programma, programme agreements applications persuaded most people
Unlike other countries in which the between the Ministry for Education, to pursue the planning method and
in the attachment to Law 662/1996 Elaborating and managing plans for of the processes of construction started
of the Financial Law of 1997, this educational structures in Great Britain and the Joint Use,
indication was adopted, developed The organizational plan «…a contractual agreement… that has
and promoted across the entire The project of organisation and the a shared use by, and benefits, two or
country. A widespread administrative methods for identifying and involving more entities» which is deemed to be
reorganization was started with the most useful and meaningful important for the master plan’s success
transfers and numerous unifications subjects for the development of the (Department of Trade and Industry,
that interwove with programmes of plan are probably the most critical 1998; State Allocation Board, 2000). It is
works to make buildings comply with and influential aspects in the success equally clear, however, that the number
standard code, to retrofit them and with or failure of a master plan (U.S. of components cannot be unlimited
pressing needs for the expansion of an Department of Education Washington for objective operational difficulties
obsolete and inadequate property. This D.C., 1998). Accepting the idea that and for a latent increase in conflict2.
reorganization created a wide array the cognitive process must be as Therefore, during the experiments
of choices that continue to involve broad and as inclusive as possible, it conducted, the plan was to construct
local communities and have led some is clear that the involvement of the a stable core able to ensure a seamless
administrations to address them on widest representation of stakeholders action with the precise involvement of
the basis of special systemic studies is essential and effective if it is to be privileged witnesses, users and other
(Ridolfi, 2008). More specifically, by formalised in actual agreements and/ potentially interested subjects, who
adopting the master plans, which the or contract protocols as a means were guided and structured – also
author helped draft and, from which, of encouraging team work and hierarchically – on specific and clearly
he drew useful experience to refine a cooperation in order to generate value. outlined issues. Didactic projects were
working methodology which will be To this end, we should compare the targeted at the identification of the
explained briefly. new approaches for the management new areas in which to locate school
buildings, or in the case of university the Scientific Committee, which acts as a of alternatives and negotiation of
planning, processes of listening were guide, and the Research Unit, which has choices
initiated with the aim of getting to operational tasks. Equally, the counter- – the management phase: in which the
know the socio-economic reality as party is represented by the Stakeholder plan is presented and adapted.
well as to identify possible partnerships Committee, which has the task of The study phase is aimed at the
to involve in the investment project. negotiating choices and appropriately acquisition of local and general
Functionally, the organisational model representing the viewpoints of the information necessary to define the
adopted was one in which, according public and the private stakeholders, framework of objectives and the
to the scientific literature, is closer to and the Transversal Project Unit, which conditions of intervention (Scenarios).
the consultant3 type, who carries out includes engineers representing the As already mentioned, we are not
his or her tasks under the guidance client administration so that the bulk of talking of mere analytical activities,
of a group of external specialists dispersed or inaccessible information but of cognitive activities that cannot
whose responsibility is to approach can be collected in one common be set aside from the evaluation,
the issues and manage the working knowledge base. decision-making and communication
agenda. Figuratively, a joint working activities. The need arises for
table can represent the organization Planning the Process modulation of the investigation
adopted with the group of specialists/ The drafting of a master plan is activities and representation of the
consultants on one side and the client/ invariably related to the development of results in the forms which are most
users, with the support of the various three inter-related phases: useful in the consequent negotiating
technical departments, on the other. - the study phase: for the sharing of phase, with actions involving the
Specifically, the group of specialists- the knowledge and the prediction of synthesis/selection of information, its
consultants is represented by two alternative scenarios classification, appraisal, comparison
hierarchically distinguished entities: – the project phase: for the evaluation and, efficient ‘presentation’, a substantial
prerequisite for that ‘communicative stems from a number of negotiation its contents and information to prevent
action’ indicated by J. Habermas as a focus groups set up by the Stakeholder it from falling into slow decadence,
new frontier of rationality (Habermas Committee, including external experts oblivion and/or disuse. For this
J., 1986). as well, privileged witnesses and purpose, it is always recommended the
The following phase of project choice stakeholders. In this negotiation, it creation of a specific management office
is aimed at the definition of the is possible to compare and contrast to be set up together with the group
Optimised Solution for working at full the different alternatives, also in that has taken part in its elaboration.
capacity, but also and especially for the consideration of the consequences on This office would be in charge of the
solution/mitigation of the criticalities the transition phases. The burden of monitoring as well as the updating of
of the transition phases that invariably its final formalisation is taken by the the information bases, the procedures
represent an element of higher risk for consulting group that will represent for contracting services and jobs and
the full implementation of a plan. the assembly drawing and above all, the objectives which guided the draft.
The first meetings are punctually the behavioural rules to be adopted It is, therefore, the most burdensome
meant to receive feedback/validation in the last phase of the plan related activity in terms of time and resources,
regarding the results of the analysis to its management: a phase which is but it is an essential pre-requisite for
and correspondence to the objectives wrongly neglected in the belief that, ensuring the effective pursuance of the
set out. These could potentially be after the long and exhausting process expected results, the real control of
redefined to conclude the Programme’s leading to the approval of the plan, expenditure and, last but not least, the
formulation and are a representation of its implementation will be a mere development of a real planning culture
the most suitable/reliable scenario and technical question, almost an automatic in the public administrations.
of the features which are most critical/ one. In reality, the plan itself begins
urgent. Finally, the shift from the precisely with its management. It is Planning the product
Programme to the Optimized Solution, necessary, in fact, to constantly update A master plan is composed of two
separate documents, which can be immediate use by the client, without maintenance and works to make
contractually identified in a Feasibility the need for the plan to reach its final buildings comply with standard code
Study and an Implementation Plan. version. For the sake of brevity, we can – alternative Solutions File in which
The former gathers the intentions of thus identify some of its more frequent possible intervention alternatives are
the strategic development policies, ‘chapters’: gradually represented with the aim of
the territorial and local planning – constraints and Objectives File in facilitating the process of evaluation
orientations, the constraints, the which, besides the declared policies and and choice of solution
existing capacities and the various the possible development scenarios, – working agenda outlining an
alternative solutions, all of which presents the elements that influence approximate structure of the
would be sustainable. The latter, besides the rest and the main regulatory and working programme and a more
reporting an integrated ‘layout’ which financial references detailed schedule of meetings aimed
complies with the provisions set out – property File in which the results of at the negotiation of choices and
in the general planning, contains the assessments of the property’s condition relevant reports with the enclosed
enforcement regulations, that is, the and the perceived quality of each synthetic comparison matrixes for
principles and behavioural rules for building, its formalisation are conceived the judgement/evaluation to be
its consistent implementation and for in a way that makes it immediately immediately used by decision-makers.
contracting out the tasks. usable by the technical departments for
In these documents and during their the property management routines Planning the tools
drafting, in line with an approach – criticalities and Priority Interventions The making of the products mentioned
which treats the plan as an in-progress Map to be used for the drafting of above entailed the use of an especially
product, there are many and diverse the three-year programming and the designed instrumental apparatus
types of documents that are elaborated: relevant annual records in relation that, as with any tool, tends to get
intermediate phase products drafted for to the work carried out, especially, mixed up with the same operational
methodology. We would like to draw ‘qualitative’ aspects, the judgements Calculation based on Limit States was
attention to an IT tool prepared for expressed are based on multi-factor also developed: a tool and method
carrying out fact-finding campaigns evaluations, whose relevance criteria stemming from the observation
integrated by sub-routines to back up can also be personalised by a dynamic that during their day to day use, the
the evaluation. Beyond the analysis ‘weighing’ of the features in the crowding of places can go beyond
of a building on different scales (site, different classes and/or requirement what can be theoretically determined
building, premises, furniture and specifications. The system is therefore through the use of standards. Thanks
equipment) with the acquisition of the able to display and compare levels to the testing of some sensible factors,
technical reference documentation of quality and to report emerging it is possible to work out the quantity
(maps, general plans,…) and the survey criticalities, obtain synthetic of beyond-the-standard crowding up to
on the purpose of the structures and the judgements and detailed opinions its extreme conditions, finding a useful
characteristics of the services hosted, with diversified degrees of priority application in the monitoring of the
the system can be consulted and used according to the purposes of each transition phases, to show decision-
to issue synthetic judgements, make building to be requalified, enlarged, or makers the buildings’ receptive
comparisons, produce hierarchically dismantled/alienated. On the basis of ‘reserves’, as well as, their state of
ordered lists on both quantitative and cost standards, it is moreover possible suffering and the proximity of the point
qualitative aspects. For the ‘quantitative’ to predict the expenditure amount of ‘collapse’ in time. The tools created to
aspects it is possible to get some according to the type of intervention, ‘encourage’ triangular interviews on the
estimates on each building and on their as well as the returns from alienations outcomes of the survey campaigns and
meaningful regroupings according to that can be derived from each building. the negotiation of optimised solutions,
the current and future state of need, In order to assess the impact of were, however, more blurred. The first
on the basis of dimensional standards choices in the intermediate phases one is an empty map with areas that
that can, however, be modified. For the of the plan’s enforcement, the Needs cross over with the objects and results
NOTE
1
Per una più esauriente trattazione del concetto vedi: Ridolfi G. (2003);
(2006).
2
Vedi il lavoro dell’antropologo David Mosse (1995), una delle prime voci
che hanno evidenziato contraddizioni e conflittualità latenti nei processi
partecipativi.
3
Vedi la classificazione ad opera di Pimbert and Pretty, capitolo 4.4. “I diffe-
renti livelli di partecipazione”, pp. 87-88 in Quattrone G. (2003).
REFERENCES
Department of Trade and Industry (1998), Rethinking Construction. The report of the construction task force, Crow, London.
Habermas, J. (1981), Theore des Kommunicativen Handelns, Suhrkamp, Frankfurt,; trad. it (1986) Teoria dell’agire
comunicativo, Il mulino, Bologna.
Mosse D. and KRIBP Project Team (1995), “‘People’s Knowledge’ in Project Planning: The Limits and Social Conditions of
Participation in Planning Agricultural Development”, Agricultural Research and Extension Network, London, 1995.
Quattrone, G., (2003), La gestione partecipata delle aree protette, F. Angeli, Milano.
Ridolfi, G. (2003), “Progetto e saperi comprensivi”, in Missori, A., Tecnologia, progetto, manutenzione, Franco Angeli, Milano
Ridolfi, G. (2006), “Confidenza e fidatezza delle organizzazioni di progetto”, in Legnante, V. (a cura di), Principi di affidabilità
nella progettazione e nella costruzione, ETS, Pisa.
Ridolfi, G. (2008), “Un progetto strategico per il rinnovamento del patrimonio strutturale scolastico nazionale”, Rivista
dell’istruzione, vol 3, 2008, Maggioli, Sant’Arcangelo di Romagna.
State Allocation Board (2000), Public School Construction Cost Reduction Guidelines, Vanir, Sacramento.
U.S. Department of Education Washington, D.C. (1998), Schools as centers of community. A citizens’ guide for planning and
design, ED Pubs, Washington.
Industrial archaeology Abstract. This text describes two works that apply the criteria of environmental su-
stainability and technological innovation, in the field of architectural and urban redeve-
and suburbs: two cases lopment. The first is an intervention that renovates an historic complex in the city cen-
tre, the second consists in the transformation of a featureless suburban car park area.
of technological and These cases are very different in terms of intervention category and urban condition,
environmental design but completely similar in their methodological approach and even in certain characte-
ristics of their morphological characters and functional system. They are both public
works, similar in costs, realized in Rome in the past five years. The comparison aims
to draw, from practical experimentation, general considerations about relationships
between the goals of the project and innovation.
Key words: Sustainability, Innovation, Design, Refurbishment, Urban regeneration
or as a vector of widespread innovation, personal experimentations in the in 1928, rare examples in Rome of
but as a position on architecture, context of a much wider cultural, social structures in iron and cast-iron,
based on theories and methodologies, and technical dispute. the architectural project includes
on scientific procedures and precise In the old Gioacchino restoration and addition, structural
instrumentation, capable of guiding Ersochslaughterhouse in Testaccio, rehabilitation and eco-efficiency,
the entire process: from conception the most important work by conservation of the facies and new
to construction, passing through the Gioacchino Ersoch1, the project for the signs, in the context of a unitary, spatial
construction site that is a distinctive «Alternative Economy City» translates and material redefinition (Cupelloni,
research laboratory. an original programme into an 2010).
For the specific skills of technology, operation that tests the furthest limits The response to the functional
the goal of environmental quality is a of renovation under conditions programme - 12 separate activities on
turning point, unless one interprets it of restrictions on monuments. an area of 3,500 sqm - is the covering
as a simple extension of consolidated The Alternative Economy Citadel, of the gap between the portico and
roles in the complex game of the launched by the Office for Self- the cantilever roofs with a new steel
multidisciplinary character of the promotion in Rome, is dedicated to structure, that transforms the existing
project. Roles that are considered organic farming, fair trade, ethical roofs and the intermediate void into
collateral unless they are considered finance, renewable energy sources, an additional space. In the linear
to be minor rolesby the interpreters of open communication, responsible development, more than 200 metres,
the noble art of composition, although tourism and recycling and reuse of the new envelope is divided into
it’s becoming clear that the issue goes resources. different and flexible ‘modules’, that
far beyond the fences of education and Operating on the Pese del Bestiame alternate open spaces with covered or
architecture. Building, on the long Ersoch portico enclosed spaces, to clearly distinguish
Thus the two presented cases are built in 1888 and the shelters built the original sections from the complex
01 |
03 |
mostly glass envelope, that – also summer overheating, and enables the openings, providing summer cooling
thanks to the open space organization correct location of PV panels. and air exchange.
– ensures the maximal transparency The sheds’ glazed openings facing The optimization of thermal effects
to originally open structures. Glass north-west are shielded by vertical and natural lighting leads to the use of
façades and skylights required a careful panels and horizontal projections, stratified insulation glazing systems,
control of thermal behavior, starting preventing overheating in the summer low-E with neutral reflection, set on
from the orientation and position afternoons. aluminum profiles extruded with a
conditions, which are obviously not Located beside the sheds are flat thermal cut, with hinged, motorized
modifiable. The control of the impact skylights, protected by a stainless steel shutters.
of sun/air has made it possible to multi-perforated double slab, providing Aiming to reduce heat losses, high-
maximize the solar heat gains during the total shielding from solar radiation performance hemp panels are used on
the winter time and to minimize the during the summer and the maximum the roof and on the façades. Low-energy
solar radiation during the summer entrance of direct radiation during the lighting devices are used for artificial
time. General and detailed solar winter, and also diffused luminosity in lighting, with high performance and
diagrams have guided the design of the every season. long life: mainly fluorescent lamps
sunscreen system4. In addition to studies for the protection controlled by light sensors, and in some
The long, glass south-east façade is of the glazed façades from direct spaces metal halide lamps. The entire
protected by a system of horizontal solar radiation, an aerodynamic flows system of furniture and equipment,
plates on the lower part of the façade, analysis was performed. The analysis realized mostly on design, uses
completing the shading effect of the has resulted in an architectural design environmentally friendly processes and
existing roof. The openings system of where the flows are induced from the materials.
the new roof is a technological solution frontal openings, in the shade zone, The complex is equipped with 7
that provides natural light without as well as from the north facing roof independent thermo-mechanical power
houses, with high performance heat understood as the new neighborhood In this scenario the project operates
pumps air/water (gas HFC 407C; COP ‘piazza’. The site chosen by the City of through horizontal planes: the
3,97-5,95) and UTA with dynamic Rome’s Department for suburbs is an zero level, pedestrian and featuring
recovery > 70%. Use of nocturnal underused car park covering more than greenery, and a second level on slender
natural ventilation contributes in the two hectares: twice the size of Piazza steel columns, made up of precise
summer to the reduction of heat inside Navona; four times the size of the planes, just below the foliage of the
the building. Termini Station’s gallery. Crosswise it is pines, lapped by green embankments.
The complex has a photovoltaic system a marginal section at the base of a built- Between these two floors the new
based on 166 silicon panels, lead free, up hill, longitudinally it is a low plane spaces unwind: the newspaper library,
with an output of 180 Wp peak power, marked by a row of pine trees. the médiathèque, a 200-seat theatre
30 kWp total power and 40,000 kWh These characteristics and various and, on the opposite side, a 350-seat
annual production; it reduces the CO2 subservices dictate the structural rules, arena. Three buildings designed as an
emissions of about 25,000 Kg/year. limiting the potential building area open space, arranged behind a long
to a long, narrow strip, and this low metal wing which, crossing them,
The operation called «Piazza Elsa position - lower than the surrounding separates the park from the adjacent
Morante» is part of a vast plan streets - closes off views which just a street. The linear arrangement produces
to renovate «Laurentino 38», a few metres higher are extensive and three spatial environments, connected
famous GESCAL district for 32,000 evocative. by the transparency of the buildings,
inhabitants, characterized by the The size of the area is a resource and at onto which open the activities of the
typical problems of metropolitan the same time a problem to be resolved Cultural Centre: the «piazza of water»,
suburbs5. to avoid that ‘out-of-scale’ between man the main access to the neighborhood,
The project’s programme involves and urban structure which is one of the the «little wood» between the
the realization of an Arts Centre major problems of the neighbourhood. library and the médiathèque and the
«multimedia piazza» between the which requires energy needs to be In addition mobile vertical sun shades
médiathèque and the theatre. increasingly covered by renewable shield the glazed façades facing south/
For a neighborhood which energy and systems of containment, west, protecting the studying and
programmatically has no centre, the makes use of ecological and photo- reading spaces also against being seen
project proposes - not an unfeasible, catalytic materials, produces electricity from the park.
traditional piazza, but a series of via photovoltaic systems, and The limitation of heat loss is carried
piazzas. Each marked by large steel accumulates rainwater to irrigate the out by embankments on the north side
pylons carrying the photovoltaic park. and by walls realized with brick blocks
plants: cubes of light as urban signals. The attention to sustainability is made of mixtures of natural clay and
The route which connects the expressed particularly in terms of wood dust free from chemical additives.
piazzas spreads out towards the eco-efficiency: orientation and solar For the thermal and acoustic insulation
natural reserve, simulating the radiation studies; technical solutions for of the concrete structures, panels with
typical Roman relationship between the insulation of the concrete envelope; mineralized fir wood fibre bonded with
city and countryside: simple green control of transmittance with advanced Portland cement are used. The solution
hillocks - located on the south side façade elements and simple earthworks. solves the thermal bridge between wall
with a shading function and as wind The analysis of solar radiation leads to and ceiling thanks to the double casting
protection - bring variety to the views the design of the horizontal fixed brise of rough concrete walls.
constructing a sequence of meeting soleils. These, thanks to the various Interior and exterior concrete walls
spaces, with wooden letters that write angles, protect the glazed façades facing are painted with photo catalytic paint,
P E MORANTE6. east/south/west from the summer based on TX Active with titanium
Also in this case, the intervention, in radiation, but allowing that daylight to dioxide, antismog, antibacterial and
accordance with the City of Rome’s come in during the winter. The skylights self-cleaning.
then recent Deliberation 48/2006, on the top perform the same function. For the glazed façades primary
07 |
aluminum alloy profiles with a thermal of the complex is 25,000 kWh/a, 20% mix of Acer platanoides Globosum
cut are used, with polithermide and of the needs, with a reduction of CO2 and Acer buergerianum for the little
low-E insulating glass. emissions of about 16,000 kg/a. forest between the «water piazza» and
Use of active systems: advanced Finally, considering the maintenance the library, and between this and the
conditioning mechanical plants, costs and the management of green médiathèque. Trees and grass lawns are
made of machines that use gas HFC; spaces, ground materials and wood watered through collected rainwater, in
low energy and long life lighting - species were selected with particular 4 tanks for a total of 250,000 litres.
fluorescent and LED for the inside and attention. Proving the criteria and instruments
outside spaces – complying with the Combining the economy and ease of environmental sustainability, these
regulations for the collection, recycling of maintenance with the maximum two cases, even if their location and
and disposal of RAEE. draining surface,, stabilized floors the functional program are different,
Mechanical plants: the theatre has have been made with coloured inserts, present strong similarities.
a conditioning plant with recycling, concrete castings with travertine-stone Their linear development, the serial
the open spaces have radiant panels inserts, concrete castings with pebbles nature of the buildings, the alternation
associated with cooling plants with fan and little stones, wooden slats, and of fullness and emptiness, and the
coils. earthworks and a grass lawn. continuity from interior to exterior,
Four PV plants have been realized: Also important was the attention to but it is above all the methodological
three on huge technological trees for the choice of trees. The existing row of approach that unites the two
10.26 kWp and an energy production Pinus pinea was treated, and other 40 operations.
of 13,500 kWh/a, in addition to the new trees were planted: Quercius ilex One follows the aim of the conservation
PV on the top of the theatre building on the perimeter facing the natural of a heritage of industrial archaeology,
for 7.84 kWp, and a production of reserve; three huge Ginko biloba on subject to restrictions on monuments,
11,500 kWh/a. The total production the entrance to the «water piazza»; a and also the aim of technological
3
The METALOCK system (1947, on the occasion of the PhD Thesis of
Coventry, UK) is a method for the cold Carmen Gimenéz Molina, Universidad
repair of cracked and broken fusions. Politécnica de Madrid, 2011.
It consists of applying shaped bars of 5
PdZ 38 district of Laurentino; 1971-73
steel alloy with a high nickel content in urban project P. Barucci (group leader);
corrugated small cavities – carried out 1973-74 architectural project P. Barucci,
with given intervals perpendicular to the P. Catalano, E. Borzi (group leaders);
fracture – associated with threaded holes 1976-84 realization. The structure
along the fracture line, in which are of the district is characterized by the
inserted screws of the same alloy. Used iteration of a base module, made of
in industrial contexts (machines, pumps, various similar buildings connected by
boilers, etc) the system was used for bridges, transverse to a large ring road.
the first time in Rome on the cast iron In 2006 the City of Rome demolished
columns on the roof of Campo Boario. three of the bridge-buildings, which
4
The energy simulations made in the had become icons of social and
design phase through the evaluation environmental degradation.
of direct and diffuse solar radiation on 6
Piazza Elsa Morante received the
the entire external envelope, according award Premio “IQU” Innovazione e
to seasons and orientations, has been Qualità Urbana (first prize category
verified on the project realized through Realized Works, Ferrara 2010).
Ecotect v.5.5 in association with 7
From the reasons for the honourable
Therm 5.2 and Window 5.2, starting mention in the award Premio Gubbio
from the data of the materials used, 2009, ANCSA, Bergamo 2009, p. 42-43.
REFERENCES
Cupelloni, L. (2009), “Interpretationen historischer Orte jenseits von Standardlösungen”, Detail, n. 11, “Sanierung”,
pp. 1153-1154 (“Interpretation of historic Sites. Beyond Standard Solutions”, Detail, n.1/2010, “Refurbishment”, p. 10).
Kaltenback, F. (2009), “Città dell’altra economia all’ex Mattatoio”, in http://www.detail.de/artikel_cupelloni-sanierung-
schlachthof-rom_24791_It.htm, Monaco.
Randaccio, L. (2009), “Struttura antisismica in acciaio prefabbricato”, Imprese edili, n. 4, anno XIX, maggio, pp. 22-26.
Toffolon, M. (2008), “The Alternative Economy Town in Rome”, Glass in it style, n. 2, anno IV, aprile, pp. 4-11.
Nicolini, R. (2008), “La città dell’Altra Economia”, L’Architetto Italiano, n. 24, anno IV, febbraio-marzo, pp. 8-11.
Panzini, F., Il Centro culturale “piazza Elsa Morante” al Laurentino 38, in http://paesaggiocritico.com/.
Costa, A. (2011), “Il non luogo diventa piazza”, Paesaggio urbano, n. 2, anno XX, marzo-aprile, pp. 46-53.
Introduzione Numerosi studi dimostrano l’esistenza di una correlazione tra Erminia Attainese
prestazioni dell’edificio e performance umana, che determina LEAS – Laboratorio Ergonomia
Applicata e Sperimentale,
significativi effetti sull’efficace ed efficiente esecuzione dei compiti Università degli Studi di Napoli
lavorativi (Clemens-Croome, 2004). Il problema del controllo Federico II, I
delle prestazioni dell’edificio, attese o in atto (Volker e Prins,
2005), è particolarmente rilevante nei contesti safety critical, quali Gabriella Duca
LEAS – Laboratorio Ergonomia
quello militare, nucleare, medico o dei trasporti. In tali contesti, Applicata e Sperimentale,
ambienti inadeguati possono contribuire a determinare danni Università degli Studi di Napoli
alle persone o all’ambiente a causa della potenziale riduzione Federico II, I
della human performance (Noyes, 2001), così come ampiamente
riconosciuto nell’ambito degli studi sull’errore umano1 (Reason,
1990). In questi casi, è necessario adottare un approccio progettuale
teso a minimizzare il gap fra esigenze degli utenti, derivanti dalle
caratteristiche delle loro mansioni e dalle prestazioni complessive
dell’ambiente di lavoro.
Nel caso specifico dei centri di controllo, le attività consistono in
azioni di supervisione centralizzata di sistemi complessi, mediante
distributed control technologies. Il progetto di un control center è parte
del progetto di un più ampio sistema uomo-macchina-ambiente, il
cui scopo è quello di effettuare controlli minimizzando i potenziali
margini di errore umano.
Architectural design and Abstract. The paper presents an applied research concerning the architectural detailing
project of a refinery control centre in Morocco. The project was aimed at delivering the
technology in safety critical most appropriate control room conditions for the operators in charge of the supervision,
so that they could operate in the best possible environmental performances, minimizing
buildings: an applied research human errors and maximizing reliability and availability of facility operations in their who-
le. The paper describes methodological approach and results of the study, discussing
how users’ needs and expectations resulting from analysis of job activities, together
with a wide set of applicable technical standard and regulations, have brought to tech-
nical specifications integrating safety critical requirements into architectural detailing.
Key words: Standard, Architectural detailing, Performance design, Design process,
Control center
Introduction
Most recent advancements in built environment research have shown the
relevance of the correspondence of buildings overall performances for human
performances in accomplishing working tasks (Clements-Croome, 2004).
Given the general awareness of the need to control expected and running
performances of buildings (Volker and Prins, 2005), the problem of work
environments quality is particularly relevant in safety critical contexts. In
those situations, inadequate workspaces may cause damages for human life
ISSN online: 2239-0243 and/or environment due to a potential reduction of human performance
© 2011 Firenze University Press (Noyes, 2001), as widely acknowledged in the field of human error1 (Reason,
http://www.fupress.com/techne 1990).
In the specific case of control centers, A research driven design case: the
work activities consist in supervising architectural detailing of a refinery
the running of complex systems, control centre
by mean of distributed control Background of the project
technologies. In January 2007 the department
A control centre project is part of a DICATA of University of Naples
design for a larger system, based on Federico II was asked to provide
specific objectives and goals of the its expertise in ergonomics to the
control, with the view to eliminating «Samir – Morocco – Upgrade Project –
or minimizing the potential for Ergonomic Study» to be released
human errors. In order to achieve this by EsseTi engineering company,
goal, applicable standards specify that a Snamprogetti and Tekfen business
control centers have to be designed partner2.
applying a human-centered approach Mohammedia Samir plant is a
focusing on specific controls to be refinery running 24/24h. The centre
carried out. of the operation is the Main Control
The human-centered design Building, where all data are made
(ISO 13407, 1999) considers available for control and monitoring
the combination of humans and purposes. Rooms covered by the
machines, in its organizational and ergonomic study are 1 Operator
environmental context, as an overall Room, 3 Supervisor Rooms and 1
system to be optimized (ISO 11064/1, Engineering Room. The project was
2000). aimed to deliver a building supporting
the high reliability and availability room layout and desk scale; drawings not only for the need of integrating
of the whole facility operations, of layout and rack details, ergonomic ergonomic know-how with architectural
minimizing personnel involvement recommendations handbook with design and technology, but also because
and maximizing its reliability. The standard and regulation references. of the complex system of international
ergonomic study was requested to c. Milestone 3: Verification of standards standards and regulations that had to be
define the most appropriate work and regulations compliance for each complied in the site according to both
environment for the operators in charge technical and environmental identified national worksite laws and best practices
of the supervision. The study had to subsystem, by check lists, tables and recalled in the general contractor
support the implementation of the virtual tour. agreement.
general requirements coming from the The Laboratory of Applied and The main applicable standard reference
applicable standards into the specific Experimental Ergonomics established is the multipart ISO 11064, supporting
context. at the DICATA, was charged to carry the application of the ergonomic general
Three milestones with related outputs out the job, setting up a purposed approach to the design, redesign or
for research/design development were multidisciplinary team. The whole job refurbishment of control centers.
established, as follows: was carried out fully complying timing The complete framework of standard
a. Milestone 1: Requirements and and costs of the international project as and regulation references is given below:
technical specifications specifically well as getting the milestones approval a. Contractual international and national
elicited for expected control tasks at by all project partners. voluntary standards
building scale; drawings of architectural – BSR/HFES 100, Factors Engineering of
detailing. The standards and regulations Computer Workstations, 2002.
b. Milestone 2: Requirements and framework – EN 423/2002, Resilient floor coverings
technical specifications specifically The presented design case was – Determination of resistance to
elicited for expected control tasks at conducted under a research perspective staining.
Task analysis delle Il dettaglio dei compiti di controllo da espletare è stato analizzato
attività di lavoro nella effettuando un’accurata task analysis, procedura che, scomponendo
sala di controllo uno o più compiti in azioni elementari, descrive esattamente come
le azioni vengono svolte e in quali condizioni l’obiettivo di ciascun
compito è raggiunto (Attaianese e Duca, 2010). I dati raccolti in
– ISO 11064 Ergonomic design of – NF X 08-004, Couleurs. couleurs Integrating ergonomics into
control centres (Part 1, 2000; Part 2, d’ambience pour les lieux de travail, architectural detailing of the control
2000; Part 3, 1999; Part 4, 2004; Part 6, 1975. centre
2005). – NF X35-103, Principes d´ergonomie Ergonomics and human factors principles
– ISO 6385, Ergonomic principles in the visuelle applicables à l´éclairage des lieux for architectural detailing
design of work systems, 2004. de travail, 1990. Ergonomics, or Human factors, is
– ISO 9241, Ergonomics Requirements – UNI EN 12825, Raised access floors, based on understanding how people
for Office work with Visual Display 2003. operates and relates with physical and
Terminals (VDTs): Part 5: Workstation – UNI EN 1815, Resilient and textile organizational components of any kind
Layout and Postural Requirments, 1998. floor coverings - Assessment of static of system when performing a task. Under
– ISO 7730, Ergonomics of the thermal electrical propensity, 1999. this perspective, those tasks can be
environment -Analytical determination – UNI EN 429, Resilient floor coverings. performed in a safe and efficient manner
and interpretation of thermal comfort Determination of the thickness of layers, also thanks to the overall features of the
using calculation of the PMV and PPD 1994. built environment. (Burgess, 1981).
indices and local thermal comfort b. National laws Focusing on human–systems
criteria, 2005. – Décret n° 88-405 du 21 avril 1988 interactions, ergonomic approach
– NF EN 61547, Equipment pour portant modification du code du travail requires the, consideration of global
l’éclarage à l’usage general – prescriptions (deuxième partie : Décrets en Conseil environment’s effects on real people who
concernant l’immunité CEN, 1996. d’Etat) et relatif à la protection des is using it, overcoming the reference to
– NF EN ISO 14738, Safety of travailleurs contre le bruit + Article R stereotyped human activities which not
machinery. Anthropometric 232 - 8 – 7 reflects the reality (Attaianese and Duca,
requirements for the design of c. Mohammedia Upgrade Project – 2010; Aas and Skramstad, 2010).
workstations of machinery, 2003. Internal documentation. The ergonomic design process in the
Key performance area, La progettazione esecutiva è stata condotta sia a scala dell’edificio
requisiti e specificazioni sia riguardo alle postazioni di lavoro, controllandone l’integrazione
tecniche per il progetto (Emitt et al., 2004) ed assicurando l’efficienza delle attività degli
esecutivo utenti diretti (operatori) e indiretti (ad es. manutentori, visitatori,
ecc.). Pertanto il progetto è stato finalizzato a quattro key performance
area trasversali, così definite:
a. sicurezza e comfort
b. comunicazione
c. traffico e percorsi
d. pulizia e manutenzione.
Riguardo alla prima, i requisiti e le specificazioni identificati sono
riferiti al benessere psico-fisico degli utenti, considerando il comfort
termo-igrometrico, le possibili fonti di distrazioni acustiche e visuali
connesse al layout spaziale, le caratteristiche acustiche e di riflettanza
delle superfici e il comfort posturale. Sono state studiate le possibili
fonti di disturbo derivanti dai materiali di finitura, dagli impianti e
dalle attrezzature, confrontando più soluzioni alternative anche in
rapporto ai possibili rischi da esposizione a contaminanti tossici.
In merito alla performance area della comunicazione, sono stati
identificate task zone individuali, in considerazione sia dello scambio
di informazioni verbali, sia della localizzazione delle attrezzature di
controllo visuale, di uso singolo e condiviso, anche separando zone
con differenti funzioni per evitare possibili fonti di disturbo.
proposed case study was set-up in Task analysis of working activities in the b. roles and numbers of involved
following steps: control room people, specific task for each role
a. analysis of job activities and study Ergonomic data feeding the overall c. applied working methods by each
of related ergonomic conditions to be design of a control suite were based role: rules, procedures, responsibilities
assured by architectural features of the firstly on job contents and work d. communications between operators
control room; definition of ergonomic organization. involved in the same or in different task
requirements for the architectural plan Then, the first step of the architectural (vocals, hard copies message, digital,…)
b. definition of technical specification for detailing under the ergonomic communication supervisor-controller,
ergonomic aspects of lightening system, perspective was the preliminary controller-controller
materials and colors of architectural understanding of control tasks to be e. interaction ways with hardware and
finishes, HVAC plants, in an integrated carried out by mean of a task analysis. software check/signaling/input devices,
framework Task analysis is the systematic analysis f. work-shift and reliefs
c. definition of ergonomic characteristics of a task, or a whole of tasks, conducted g. operators posture and related
of control room and appurtenances by mean of tasks breakdown in some exertion based on console functions
layout, with reference to command and smaller scale elements, with the aim to and working methods
control devices reach and sight acuity describe exactly how human actions are h. required moving and paths followed
d. control of the correspondence carried out and task goal is achieved, by operator performing
between the whole of ergonomic observing interactions of people with its tasks.
architectural performances assured by the surrounding technical and socio-
the architectural design, its technical organizational system (Attaianese and Key performance areas, requirements
specifications and job characteristics. Duca, 2010). Data gathered in this and technical specification for
initial design stage concern: architectural detailing
a. control scope and activities flow chart The architectural detailing phase of
the project was conducted at two specifications were addressed to physically separated to avoid potential
different, strongly integrated, scales, psycho-physical wellbeing, considering sources of disturbance.
given the aim to assure full consistency thermal comfort, visual and auditory Traffic and routing key performances
between technical specification and distractions in spatial layout, as well refer to distances to be covered either
designed details at both building and as tactile, acoustic and reflectance for reaching the exact location of
workstations scales (Emitt et al., 2004). features of surfaces. Also potential displayed data either for exchanging
Together with the focus on safe and sources of visual, auditory and vibration information among operators.
efficient conduct of control operations disturbances from systems were They consider the overall working
by personnel, the detailing process considered, identifying appropriate organization in terms of procedural
paid attention to some other building countermeasures. Architectural and physical links, shortcuts and
performances related to the indirect detailing paid attention to minimizing infringements.
users of the building, therefore some possible risk of exposure to hazards Main aspects considered for cleaning
cross-cutting key performance areas such as toxic materials, pollution and and maintenance area concerned the
for built environment were defined, radiation. Obviously, postural comfort easiness and minimization of related
to which design was addressed. Key has been taken into account, too. operations. Those are the referred to
performance areas identified for the About communication, detailing potential accumulation of dirt and
Samir control centre are: activities were focused on task zones contaminants in the control suite and
a. safety and comfort of individuals requiring frequent innocuousness of cleaning agents
b. communication verbal communication, control suite needed. It also focused on keeping at the
c. traffic and routing equipment location in relation to minimum disturbance to the operations
d. cleaning and maintenance. the need of visual contact between of the control suite , by accessibility,
For what concerns personnel safety operators. Rooms and locations with easiness and quickness of maintenance
and comfort, requirements and different functions have been kept and repair activities (Attaianese, 2008).
REQ_finishes 2 Colours, textures and materials should be selected SPEC_finishes 23 Wall finishes should have a surface reflectance
to provide a pleasant working environment and a value included between 0,50 and 0,60. The surface
calming backdrop to the control activities being reflectance value should not fall below 0,50,
undertaken. as values below this can increase the contrast
[UNI EN ISO 11064- Ergonomic design of control between the ceiling and walls, contribute to a
centres Part 6: Environmental requirements for control gloomy environment, and increase electric light
centres] power consumption.
[ISO 11064-6, Ergonomic design of control centres
- Part 6: Environmental requirements for control
centres]
REQ_finishes 4 Wall finishes should be pale rather than bright and SPEC_finishes 24 The glazing bars and solid areas of the partitions
the colours selected to avoid psychological effects; should have a similar reflectance value (0,5 to
textured finishes help reduce reflected glare 0,6) to the periphery walls.
[UNI EN ISO 11064- Ergonomic design of control [Ref.: ISO 11064-6, Ergonomic design of control
centres Part 6: Environmental requirements for control centres - Part 6: Environmental requirements for
centres] control centres]
REQ_finishes 6 The excessive use of either dark or light finishes SPEC_finishes 25 Colour of the wall surface in the control room
on building structures or on furniture should be and appurtenances should be close to one of
avoided. following colours according the NCS – Natural
[UNI EN ISO 11064- Ergonomic design of control Color System:
centres Part 6: Environmental requirements for control - S 0520-Y
centres] - S 0530-Y
- S 0520-G90Y
REQ_finishes 8 Excessively strong patterns, seen as a backdrop to SPEC_finishes 26 In order to avoid glare conditions, architectural
visual display units or other control equipment, finishes colours should allow to keep chromatic
should be avoided. contrasts in visual field listed hereafter:
[UNI EN ISO 11064- Ergonomic design of control
centres Part 6: Environmental requirements for control GLAZE DIRECTION TOLERATED CONTRAST
centres] In the working area 1:3
The architectural detailing was achieved a. control workstations and furniture 02 | Esempio dei requisiti e delle specificazioni
implementing the flow of requirement layout di prestazione delle finiture delle partizioni
identification, technical specification b. control desk and furniture verticali
elicitation and details drawing. More dimensions and morphology Sample of technical requirements and
specifically, at building scale, this flow c. control desk and furniture finishes specifications for wall finishes
brought at detailing: and colors
a. Control room layout d. independent visual displays
b. Control room and appurtenances e. lighting workstation and control
lighting system room lighting
c. Environment lighting f. acoustic workstation and control
d. Lighting equipment room acoustic.
e. Control room and appurtenance Design and detailing activities paid
thermal environment particular attention to all technical
f. Control room and appurtenances features affecting visual tasks, referred
acoustic environment to single components and to their
g. Control room and appurtenances whole. Details identified technical
architectural finishes and colours. specifications of lighting system, in
– Flooring combination with natural light, and
– Ceiling colors were selected in relation to
– Walls reflecting power of materials and
For what concerns detailing of finishing considering their influence
workstations and furniture, details were on perception, attention and workload
addressed to: (Goins et. al., 2010).
03 | Tavola di dettaglio delle finiture: The validation of the architectural postures in built environment.
particolare delle finiture delle detailing project
superfici Last stage of the design process Conclusions
Detailing drawing sheet: particular concerned the compliance check, The research driven project presented
about surface finishes aimed at verifying that the whole of here allowed to put in practice a
the ergonomic technical specifications whole process of performance based
defined and applied in the Samir design for a safety critical building.
Mohammedia control centre matches The focus on performances required
all the applicable standards and laws. a technological approach to the
To provide evidence that all expected architectural project. In fact, the
performances were fulfilled, a matrix effort of eliciting users expectations
was built crossing each point of on the basis of actual functional
applicable ergonomic standard with needs responds to a major trigger of
the corresponding set of technical technology perspective on building
specifications. design. Formalization of the design
Moreover, an intermediate and final process, that in the presented project
simulation for the assessment of has been strongly supported by a
ergonomic performances of buildings, traceability system for requirements
working positions and equipment was and technical specifications, is a further
made by internal and external VR benchmark of technological approach.
views and movies, integrating a real like This, joined with the verification and
digital ergonomic mannequin for the validation outputs, provided all the
analysis of visibility, reachability and stakeholder involved in building design,
04 | Verifica intermedia per la selezione fra opzioni alternative basata sul confronto delle
prestazioni visive offerte da due diversi sistemi di illuminazione (vista parziale)
Partial view of intermediate verification for final selection based on comparison of control room
visual performances offered by two lightening systems
NOTE
1
L’errore umano è un’azione che causa o contribuisce a determinare un disa-
stro o un incidente, connessa ad aspetti diversi del comportamento umano,
come la percezione dei segnali, il problem solving o l’errore nella pianifica-
zione ed esecuzione di un’azione. Per la sua gestione è necessario adottare
un approccio sistemico che evidenzia il ruolo del contesto, nella sua più
ampia accezione, nel determinare il comportamento umano.
2
SAMIR-MOHAMMEDIA-MAROCCO-Upgrade Project – Ergonomic Stu-
dy “Convenzione di Ricerca tra Dipartimento di Configurazione e Attuazio-
ne dell’Architettura (DICATA) e EsseTi del 12/01/2007, Responsabile Scien-
tifico, Erminia Attaianese. Gruppo di lavoro: Gabriella Duca, Gabriella De
Margheriti, Stefano Santagata”.
3
Questo articolo è il frutto della stretta collaborazione delle due autrici. Ciò
nonostante, se parti specifiche devono essere attribuite alla singola autrice,
ciò può essere fatto come segue: paragrafi 1, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1 ad Erminia Attaia-
nese, paragrafi 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 e 4 a Gabriella Duca.
REFERENCES
Aas, A.L. and Skramstad, T. (2010), “A case study of ISO 11064 in control centre design in the Norwegian petroleum
industry”, Applied Ergonomics Vol. 42 No. 1, pp. 62-70.
Attaianese, E. (2008), “From the qualities to the quantities: applied ergonomics in a control room architectural project”, in W.
Karwowsky and G. Salvendy (Eds). AHFE International - Applied Human Factors and Egonomics Conference 2008 Proceedings.
Las Vegas July 14-17 2008, pp. 1-8.
Attaianese, E. and Duca, G. (2010), “Human factors and ergonomic principles in building design for life and work activities:
an applied methodology”, Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science, Vol. iFirst No. 30 September 2010, pp. 1-16.
Burgess, J.H. (1981), Human factors in built environment, Environmental Design and Research Centre, Newtonville MA.
Clements-Croome, D. (2004), “Building environment, architecture and people”, in Clements-Croome D. (Ed.) Intelligent
Buildings: Design Management and Operation, Thomas Telford, London, pp. 53- 100.
Emitt, S., Olie, J., and Schmid, P. (2004), Principles of architectural detailing, Wiley-Blakwell, Hobocken.
Goins, J., Jellema, J., and Zhang, H. (2010), “Architectural enclosure’s effect on office worker, performance: A comparison of
the physical and symbolic attributes of workspace dividers”, Building and Environment No. 45, pp. 944–948.
ISO 13407 (1999)., Human-centred design processes for interactive systems, International Standard Organization, Geneva.
Kobes, M., Helsloot, I., Vries, B. and Post, J.G (2010), “Building safety and human behaviour in fire: A literature review”, Fire
Safety Journal No. 45, pp. 1-11.
Noyes, J. (2001), Human error. In Noyes, J. and Bransby, M. (Eds), People in Control: Human Factors in Control Room Design.
The Institution of Electrical Engineers, Stevenage UK, pp. 4-16.
Pati, D., Park, C.S. and Augenbroe, G. (2006), “Roles of building performance assessment in stakeholder dialogue”,
Automation in construction, No.15, pp. 415-427.
Reason J. (1990), Human error, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge UK, p. 50.
Volker, L. and Prins, M. (2005), “Exploring the possibilities of correlating management with value in architectural design” in
Emmitt, S. and Prins, M. (Eds.), Proceedings of the CIB W096 Architectural Management, CIB, Rotterdam, pp. 47-59.
Tecnema Social Housing Abstract. The project is a collaboration between the company Termocasa in Reggio
Calabria and the research unit Stoa, of the Department DASTEC of the University of
Tecnema housing to improve Reggio Calabria.
This initiative was implemented in two phases:
energy efficiency and increase in the first, already completed, the following objectives were achieved:
the share of energy from Plan local knowledge of the experiment; theoretical and practical methodology of the
entire construction process to ensure the energy efficiency of buildings, description of
renewable sources typed technical solutions and verification of transferability.
To carry out this phase, it was used a Scholarship sponsored by «Termocasa».
- the second phase, which will require substantial financial resources, will begin with
the execution of construction projects and the subsequent evaluation of the energy
efficiency solutions implemented.
Key words: Minimum living units, Energy efficiency, System integration, Reversibility,
Aggregability
coordinated and directed by Prof. to energy savings, in areas with strong of the future: in the first, traditionally
A. Nesi, who conducts research into environmental vocation linked to the concept of durability, the
the DASTEC. The aim was to design − the consolidation, growth and temporal dimension is associated with
modular housing facilities, according dissemination of information and the maintainability, finalized to the
to the approach of social housing know-how that can allow informed maintenance and/or restauration of
and energy-efficiency aggregated for decisions of designers, enterprises, the initial performances, while in the
a temporary type of users (students, governmental bodies and common second it prevails the evolution concept
researchers, scholars) The interest is the people. and ability to adapt to the passage
testing and monitoring of technologies of time and compared to changing
with different types of energy supply Living in the contemporary world conditions (AA.VV., 1994; Raiteri,
systems and/for the exploitation The temporal dimension in the design 1996). The prefabricated temporary
renewable resources. A sort of and construction of architecture’s housing units, the «machine for living»
permanent laboratory experiment works in recent years has become that embodies all the characteristics
that uses a community of temporary one of the topics of greatest interest of contemporary housing, and that
aggregations where the audience is not and cultural debate. There are several perhaps more than any other formula
passive but participant in the operation phenomena that have helped change of becoming the architecture, is one of
and use of living units. the perception of the «time» in the themes explored since the advent
The study dealt with various thematic architecture, but the overall outcome of industrialization in construction
areas, such as: that can be attributed to them is the and even today is the illusion of
− the design and construction of transition from a static, dynamic many designers who engage in that
integrated models of intervention in dimension to a permanent, temporary borderland between the micro and
relation to the production of energy dwelling. To the Architecture of macrodesign, as evidenced by the large
from renewable sources and in relation «being» is overlapping architecture participation in the debate on these
Il Tecnema abitativo Il sistema abitativo base denominato Tecnema è pensato per realizzare,
tramite aggregazioni multiple, tipologie abitative complesse, modelli
progettati con sistemi integrati tecnologia/impianti per migliorare
l’efficienza energetica e aumentare la quota di energia consumata
proveniente da fonti rinnovabili e dotati di sistemi di monitoraggio e
valutazione dei consumi atti a perseguire obiettivi di miglioramento.
Nel caso specifico, attraverso un programma di monitoraggio delle
diverse soluzioni tecnologiche e di approvvigionamento energetico,
l’utenza (studenti o giovani ricercatori) sarà parte attiva della continua
sperimentazione dell’efficienza energetica dei moduli residenziali.
Layout funzionali Il sistema Tecnema è frutto di una ricerca progettuale che procede per
aggregazioni di moduli abitativi base con diverse destinazioni d’uso
e funzionali. Il modulo dimensionale che regola il progetto è M=120
cm. In questa griglia modulare è possibile collocare lo scheletro
issues. The temporary housing is a use of other technology resources The Tecnema
major technological challenge for the whose performance and expressive The housing system called Tecnema is
future and a field of experimentation connotations can be made available for designed to realize, through multiple
and innovation still largely unexplored. temporary architecture. aggregations, different types of
Rather than a product innovation The rapid transformations and housing complex. Models designed
is even more strong the need for an incessant streams of contemporary with integrated systems technology /
innovation process that establishes new socio-cultural make, require the systems to improve energy efficiency
conditions of employment of all current formulation of a new concept of and increase the share of energy
technological resources, but also that it living, a new reflection on man and consumed from renewable sources and
is able to bridge the gap between design on the construction of its space. The equipped with systems for monitoring
and technological possibilities now concept of «home» is not solely due and evaluation of consumption
available and the ability to transpose to the traditional model, synonymous in order to achieve improvement
and implement the part of those who of permanence and stability. The objectives. In this case, the users
have the responsibility to meet the contemporary house becomes more and (students and young researchers) will
demands of living in the con-temporary. more home «temporary», the emblem be an active part to test continuously
The guidelines of the temporary of mobility that characterizes our era. the energy efficiency of the residential
building are more inclined to designs Today the design of living space also modules, through a program of
in metal, wood and plastics, not becomes design of precariousness, monitoring the various technological
only because of the lightness as a raising the question of recognition solutions and energy supply.
prerequisite for easy movement of of the multiplicity of dwelling and a
the elements, but also the efficiency number of consequential interactions Functional Layout
weight/resistance. However, it would that the space is able to establish with Tecnema is the result of a research that
be a mistake to exclude at first the the elements it is related to. proceeds by aggregation of the basic
Il modello costruttivo Il modello costruttivo, in linea con gli obiettivi generali, deriva da
un processo progettuale che a fronte di una ridefinizione dei fattori
primari (tipologia, morfologia, tecniche costruttive, impianti)
consente di pervenire a un organismo edilizio di nuova concezione
dotato di un elevato grado di flessibilità e adattabilità d’uso e in
grado di ottimizzare i consumi energetici in relazione a condizioni di
benessere ambientale.
Tali capacità sono espresse secondo alcuni punti fondamentali:
– la riduzione del fabbisogno energetico dato dal miglioramento
dell’efficienza dell’involucro
– lo sfruttamento degli elementi naturali per ottenere le condizioni
di comfort interno
– l’integrazione e il dimensionamento degli impianti.
Per la definizione tecnica e costruttiva del modulo abitativo Tecnema,
in linea con le più attuali direttrici tecnologiche delle costruzioni 01 | Tecnema abitativo
temporanee, si è scelto di adottare sistemi costruttivi a secco e con Tecnema housing
into account the needs of users for techniques, equipment) allows us to envelope; structure; networks and
what concerns the outdoor areas of build the new design with a high degree equipment plant; inner envelope.
relevance, in order to increase the of flexibility and use adaptability , and The structural component is usually
endowment of the residential function can optimize the energy consumption complied with frame (usually steel
of the confined space, with open in relation to the environmental or wood, more rarely in reinforced
spaces for residential activities (report, conditions required. Such capabilities concrete), the inner and outer casings
lunch, etc...), play areas, parking areas, are expressed by some key points: are made of materials and components
etc. for horticulture and to ensure - the reduction of energy demand by selected as appropriate to the functions
a neighborhood residential with improving the efficiency of the envelope defined by the designer according
different levels of use (from private - the exploitation of natural elements to to the relevant physical stresses.
to semi-private, the collective). It also achieve comfort conditions inside In the gaps formed between these
provides the opportunity to specialize - the sizing of systems integration. macro-entities, are located the easy-to
some Tecnemas (for some parts or in For the technical definition and inspect networks. The building is thus
its entirety), and to collect functions construction of the living module conceived as a mechano where each
with different levels of aggregation and Tecnema, in line with the latest component is developed, but available
integration. technological lines of the temporary on the market (Imperadori, 2001).
buildings, it was decided to adopt fully- From a purely architectural point of
The constructive model dry building systems and technologies view, the separation of structural parts
The constructive model, in line with with S/C (Structure/Coating). and enclosure system facilitates the
the overall objectives, is the result of The system is essentially based on a expansion of the range of expressive
a design process that compared to a constructive paradigm released as possibilities of external curtains,
redefinition of the primary factors separate entities, with specific functions which are no longer constrained by
(typology, morphology, construction and performances, which are: outer the presence of elements of vertical
02 |
structure, and can be configured in and ‘skins’ of finishing outside-inside, shapes placing solid and void solely
order to accommodate instances the development of the floors where on the basis of internal organizational
figurative compositions and the gaps outweigh the solid, the design choices and constraints arising from
intentionality. From the standpoint of of a double partition walls made climate orientation of the building
technology, however, the system can of plasterboard on metal frames,, elevations. The choice of construction
meet increasingly specific ranges of adequate layers of insulation of the system S/C can also meet one of the
performance: environmental needs, vertical and horizontal enclosures, are key requirements for the design of the
requests for such plant, appropriate choices that lead to the achievement of housing system, the reversibility of the
solutions to promote the use of passive a comfortable environment superior construction process or the possibility
resources, use of materials to meet to that found in a traditional building. of re-using for more productive cycles
the regulations for the containment of The use of industrially produced of the material and technological
energy consumption, etc. components, which are assembled resources obtained from the de-
The energetic performance of the on site, allows to predetermine the construction work after his temporary
construction S/C lies above all in issues of quality and performance of use. On this matter, four points have to
the diversification of the layers and both the individual elements or sub- be considered:
their interoperability: movable or systems, and of the entire building. 1. Integration into the building
removable insulation panels (badwalls), By separating the enclosure from the elements.
external displays, interiors, furniture structure, it is easier to take action The peculiarity of the construction
intermediates, interspaces any external in all those critical points where method adopted allows preparing
bypass ventilated on the inside and it is most likely to have thermal the integration of systems and the
back again (Peretti, 2001). bridges and also the independence installation of new networks.
The design of housing systems based of sub-systems promotes the ability 2. Production / purchasing power.
on panels made of insulating layers to organize different geometries and Regards the system of acquisition of
energy from renewable sources (solar constituent parts of the construction strips of wood (30x50 mm). The inner
thermal, photovoltaic, small wind, system are described below and provide insulating panels of hemp allows the
geotermic) integrated systems and a basis for the drafting of specific items passage of traditional or evolved types
enclosure cover. of. of plant networks (radiant tubes)
3. System of distribution / delivery. - Structure. Hot dip galvanized steel the internal finish is made with a
With reference to two levels: the profiles with IPE and box of current plasterboard panel (single or double)
distribution of ‘networks’ from production, the connection system finished with painting. Some parts, for
the central clearing house, and the provides for the bolting of the elements. reasons of architectural character, the
distributors (fan coil units, VRV, In the foundation of an audience exterior finish layer is made of fiber
radiant floor to ceiling or wall, etc..). is expected the AC supply for the cement panels for outdoor finished
It can happen that sometimes the two distribution of loads, with plinths and with plaster and painting
systems can coexist. emerging steel plates for the connection - Horizontal Locks Coverage. The flat
4. Monitoring Management of the vertical structural elements. roofs, and the floors are made of steel
It refers to issues relating to both - Vertical Enclosures. Made with plates connected to the supporting
the end-use and the management desolidarised «sandwich» panels from structure by means of connectors and
of technical systems, in relation to the structure and assembled on site. The splitter load, the layers of completion
the conditions of comfort required, closure elements have the possibility of are starting from the outside layer of
as to the possibility of setting up different types of exterior finishes and gravel ballast, waterproofing membrane
monitoring stations and storage of data engineering integration . The concept of reinforced, polyethylene vapor barrier,
on consumption, savings potential, «basic» provides a frame in laminated horizontal shaft passing systems,
sustainability parameters (eg . CO2 wood (80x100 mm) to which it is plasterboard panel locking system with
savings the benchmark). The main attached a panel of external finishing integrated lighting
NOTE
Il presente intervento è parte di una ricerca il cui gruppo di lavoro è così composto:
Coordinatori: prof. Attilio Nesi, prof. Alberto De Capua (DASTEC, Università
Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria), Arch. Angelo Frascati (Termocasa); Responsabile
operativo arch. Maurizio Aversa (phd in Tecnologia dell’architettura, DASTEC).
REFERENCES
Aversa M., Giglio F. “Nuovi modelli per l’abitare”, dossier Costruire, n. 295, pp. 62-68.
Bologna, R. e Terpolilli, C. (2005), Emergenza del progetto - Progetto dell’emergenza. Architetture Con-Temporaneità,
Federico Motta Editore, Milano.
De Capua, A. (2002), Nuovi paradigmi per il progetto sostenibile. Contestualità, Adattabilità, Durata, Dismissione,
Gangemi Editore, Roma.
Delera A. (2010) “I nuovi requisiti tipologici per l’housing sociale”, Il Progetto sostenibile, n. 25, pp. 28-33.
Imperadori, M. (1999), Le procedure Struttura/Rivestimento per l’edilizia sostenibile – tecnologie dell’innovazione,
Maggioli, Rimini.
Imperadori, M. (2001), “Elasticità vs. Inerzia”, Modulo, n. 273, Luglio/Agosto.
Nesi, A. e Curcio, S. (1994), Residenze sanitarie per anziani, Edizioni Kappa, Roma.
Peretti, G. (1997), Verso l’ecotecnologia in architettura, BE-EMA Editrice, Milano.
Peretti, G. (2001), “Sostenibilità e risparmio energetico”, Modulo, n. 273, Luglio/Agosto.
Raiteri, R. (Ed.) (1996), Progettare l’abitare, Maggioli, Rimini.
Terranova, F. (2011), “Dalle case popolari al Social Housing. Successi e miserie delle politiche sociali per la casa in
Italia”, Techne, n. 1, pp. 36-47.
Zambelli, E., Vanoncini, P.A. e Imperadori M. (1998), Costruzione stratificata a secco Tecnologie edilizie innovative e
metodi per la gestione del progetto, Maggioli editore, Rimini.
“La sperimentazione ad Almere”, AA. VV. (1994), Housing 6, Etas Libri, Milano.
trellises green, protective elements disclose significant environmental energy supply systems and / or
«overcoat» facade ventilating, to housing-related (energy consumption, exploitation of renewable resources.
facilitate maintenance items, etc..). amount of energy produced from A permanent laboratory test that uses a
renewable sources, entry / savings community of temporary aggregations
Experimentation CO2, waste, etc..). It is expected, in this where the user can become part of the
The trial of the housing system and its regard, to form an aggregation of four operation and the use of living units.
logic is prescribed in two phases: the units (Tecnema residential) building
first is the prototype of the module technologies that maintain plant and NOTES
housing, the second phase is aimed distribution systems are identical, but 1
This item is part of a research
to develop a design guide for the different energy supply sources, in group whose work is as follows:
construction of a village education/ particular: Coordinators: prof. Attilio Nesi,
educational structured as a ‘laboratory 1. living units with a geothermal probe prof. Alberto De Capua (DASTEC
of attention’ on the issues of housing- (deep) Mediterranean University of Reggio
term social and sustainable to be 2. living units geothermal collector Calabria); Arch Angelo Frascati
carried out in an area located in the (surface) (Thermo), Chief Operating Architect.
village of Lazzaro Motta San Giovanni 3. living units with a natural gas boiler Maurizio Aversa (PhD in Architectural
(RC). condensing Technology, DASTEC).
In relation to the strong connotation 4. living units with air-ground heat
of eco-compatible village includes the exchanger and solar panels.
installation of ‘Totem energy’ who have The aim is to test and monitor systems
the task of storing data and instantly with different types of residential
La ricerca sui tessili Il presente saggio prende spunto dal racconto di esperienze recenti
tecnici al Politecnico di ricerca universitaria vissute in prima persona, per riflettere sui
di Milano cambiamenti in atto nel fare ricerca e nel fare progettuale e per
interrogarsi sulle opportunità che alla disciplina della Tecnologia
dell’Architettura vengono offerte nel quadro evolutivo della
società attuale.
L’esperienza che verrà ripercorsa è il frutto di un piccolo gruppo
di persone che opera all’interno dell’unità di ricerca SPACE
(Sperimentazione nel Progetto di Architettura e Ciclo di vita
dei sistemi Edilizi) del dipartimento di Scienza e Tecnologie per
l’Ambiente Costruito del Politecnico di Milano e che si sta via via
specializzando attorno al tema dell’architettura tessile.
Tale esperienza, così focalizzata su un campo specifico di materiali
e di processi, può rappresentare un punto di osservazione sulle
dinamiche tra progetto e tecnologia, laddove l’attività progettuale
si frammenta e si specializza sempre più, distinguendosi in
progettazione architettonica, strutturale, ambientale, tecnologica,
quanto più la tecnologia pervade ogni gesto trasformativo operato
dagli individui e della società.
Research and experimentation Abstract. This paper outlines the work being done by the Politecnico di Milano’s SPA-
CE (Experimental process for architecture and life cycle of building products) research
with technical textiles unit on the theme of textile architecture. It describes the major research done by the
unit, giving a glimpse of the strategies put in place by the university and the European
Union for pure research, applied research and even experimental design. The essay
also presents some thoughts on the impact of technological research on a project and
on the ability of technologist to contribute to the design process with ‘constructive ima-
gination’ and with ‘non-routine skills’, encouraging cooperation between specialized
areas and the achievement of goals using non-conflicting methods.
Key words: Research, Technology, Creativity, Project, Technical textiles
divided into architectonic, structural, and materials chemistry. or systems through the characterisation
environmental and technological design The second was far more concrete and of materials, the study of the
as technology becomes ever more a part is due to be inaugurated in October. manufacturing processes employed
of any transformation brought about by Called Textiles’ HUB (Heuristic and an assessment of the possibility of
an individual or society. Understanding in Buildings), it is a applying products/systems from other
research laboratory specialising in building sectors.
Hub and network testing potential uses of technical One could say the cluster is based on
Two initiatives have driven the textiles in buildings. The lab is linked the concept of epistême or procedural
multiple activities that SPACE is now to a local and international network knowledge, while HUB is about a
involved in as it seeks to explore textile of other parties and laboratories heuristic approach where something
constructions and, more generally, involved in testing textiles in a range of is achieved through trial and error
technological advancement in areas industries. and through in-the-field investigation
where technical textiles are used. The cluster and HUB are virtual and of coded procedures and the free
The first, put in place in 2008, could be physical meeting points for scientific organisation of new ways of operating.
described as intangible since it involved researchers, fabric manufacturers In other words, HUB is where things
the creation of a multidisciplinary (technical and normal) and the are done without a specific target and
research cluster for innovative textiles. network of designers and suppliers of where possibilities are tested without a
Known as CLUSTex, it was created membrane structures for buildings. set focus (the site for practising techné).
to encourage exchange among the They are also ideal places for discussion Its knowledge is drawn from the cluster
researchers and textiles experts at among the various parties involved in (site of the epistême), with its goal being
Politecnico di Milano in the fields planning building systems based on to find new and more effective ways of
of architecture, design, structural textiles. The objective is to help with ‘doing’ (praxis). The results can then be
engineering, mechanical engineering the development of new products and/ used by building-sector companies.
Both the cluster and HUB are highly The leadership of technology in pure ETFE (EthyleneTetraFluoroEthylene)
focused on technical textiles and the research: strengths and weaknesses transparent pneumatic foil cushions-
multidisciplinary network, both local In both of the initiatives in point 2, and that are seen, in their sectors,
and global, is essential not only for building technology is leading the way as being the most economic and
getting new research projects going, but and guiding the skill sets involved. environmentally friendly solutions,
also for in-depth examination and for Perhaps this is because this area is so it was possible to see that the relative
sharing any information acquired and fragile and lacking in specialisation, laminating techniques were compatible
any experimentation done. compared to branches of engineering and to work out how they could be
Moreover, given that Europe has and chemistry, that it is more willing to integrated. The technologists saw the
numerous textile research labs that enter new terrain, and to discuss and possibility to introduce into the dye-
test procedures that might become the cooperate before procedures have been sensitized solar cell production line
future Eurocode standards used for codified. It also has a clearer vision of the ‘corona ring treatment’ typically
textile structures1, having a centre at the goal, since this relates to advancing used for the aluminium powder
Politecnico di Milano will aid Italian the building sector. printing that increases the amount of
companies in this sector. Indeed, it Building technology played an equally light blocked by otherwise transparent
can support them in developing a central role in a multidisciplinary ETFE foil. Thus, they turned to
set of indicators based on the Italian pure research project designed to chemists and physicists specialising
manufacturing system, climate and create a photovoltaic organic cell on in macromolecules to commence
environment. These indicators can then a fluoropolymeric substrate2. Here, testing on a new type of organic cell.
be used in the debate for the upcoming by studying the industrial processes It was possible to focus on a shared
standardisation of the procedures for used to manufacture two technologies goal because of the industrial potential
planning, building and maintaining currently in development - third of the idea and the possibility of
textile structures. generation photovoltaic cells and widespread use of the resultant building
Le mille opportunità Dal 2010 l’European Research Council (ERC) introduce il campo
della ricerca applicata Lightweight construction, textile technology all’interno del settore
strategico denominato PE8: Products and process engineering
(product design, process design and control, construction methods,
civil engineering, energy systems, material engineering) sancendo
material, especially since, today, the she seeks to understand and examine group is involved in these projects in
only organic cell production lines use in depth the problems that other team varying ways.
a less high-performing and durable members, in their sectors, encounter. European interest in lightweight textile
transparent polymer, PET, as the structures is clearly evinced by the
substrate for laminating the cells. Thousands of opportunities for explicit reference to possible uses of
Certain features differentiate this pure applied research advanced textiles in the coordinated
research from more goal-focused In 2010, the European Research calls for proposals on the cross-cutting
applied research. First, the attempt to Council (ERC) added Lightweight themes of nanotechnologies (NMP)
foster mutual understanding, which construction, textile technology to the and the energy efficiency of buildings
was the basis for initiating the project strategic sector known as PE8: Products (E2B), where new lightweight building
and determining the budget, needs and process engineering (product solutions are examined as potential
to remain consistent over time since design, process design and control, replacements for the current accepted
genuine pure research necessarily construction methods, civil engineering, options that only seek energy efficiency
comes up against bottlenecks that force energy systems, material engineering). through mass. More specifically, in the
research teams to re-determine goals This allowed technical fabrics to be 7FP - Cooperation Work Programme
along the way. This need to reorient included in most of the research calls 2001 – Theme 4, the EU has created
results means that each team member for proposal in the VII framework a cross-thematic coordinated call
must, in his/her own area of expertise, programme to revamp the building between E2B (Energy-efficient
continually and substantially use his/ sector and construction processes. Buildings) and NMP (Nanosciences,
her ability to predict. In this type of The paragraphs below look at three nanotechnologies, Materials and
iterative and somewhat creative process, different types of projects that were put new Production technologies). There
a technologist can play an increasingly in place precisely because of the ERC’s are also two other really interesting
important guiding role the more he/ framework goals. The SPACE research calls for proposals: EeB-NMP.2011-1
on new work into minimal forms, activities should make it clear that
which can be created using the most the opportunities for applied research
advanced parametric design tools, are manifold. The first and second
that makes it possible to test forms examples are collaborative projects
that have already been hypothesised (large scale integration projects)
mathematically, but never structurally where the EU places great importance
analysed nor assessed in terms of on the creation of demonstrators
possible forms or modular potential in the member countries involved,
since it is impossible to create these rewarding efforts where universities
shapes using traditional soap-bubble and companies in the same area
simulations (Emmer, 2008). work together. The third project type
Finally, SPACE is furthering is CIP-EIP ECO-INNOVATION3.
cooperation with local companies, The collaborative projects give the
especially CENTROCOT (Cotton university the opportunity to carry
Centre in Varese), to seek funding for out real experimental research as
eco-innovation. Here, lifecycle design part of the project goals, but it is the
is central to the group’s work and is the CIP programmes that really make it
tool needed to undertake feasibility possible to guide the introduction of
studies into the industrial development new products and technologies onto
of a building product created by the market. In this case, experimental
recycling textile materials produced research is the starting point that is
along the supply chain. shared with companies willing to
This brief summary of the group’s develop an idea that a specific research
For example, if the external investor is a to exist between the parties and the
public entity, the research group might research unit also needs to have proven
be able to provide advice on decisions leadership in a given area6.
regarding a specific technical building In both cases, the research group ends
solution or to indicate alternative ways up working with people from different
to achieve the desired performance5. parts of the building industry, but
If the external investor is a private does so autonomously. This ensures
body, the research group can gainfully it remains independent and free to
consider the company’s specific formulate the research results, thus also
problem as part of more far-sighted becoming the mediator between all the
experimentation, where the timeframe other stakeholders.
is longer and less urgent. This means It is precisely the ability of the technical
the research group provides the designer to look forward and the
company with the typical ‘pre-project’ creativity of the technologist who is
research as there is no time for an always open to innovation that turn
actual project because of the pressing such occasions into opportunities
nature of the business world, unless the for real experimental research.
project forms part of one of the major Furthermore, such research might
multidisciplinary design teams (Arup, even provide the subject matter on
Arep, Buro Happold, RPBW, etc.). Of which new proposals for European
course, for a university to offer such a collaboration projects are built.
«research and development service» is
it necessary for established mutual trust
NOTE
1
Nel giugno del 2010 l’associazione europea TensiNet si è fatta promotrice
di una proposta di Eurocodice CEN/TC250/WG5: Technical Guidance for
the Design of Membrane Structures che è stata accettata con un tempo di
istruttoria complessivo di 30 mesi. Sempre dallo stesso anno è stato attiva-
to all’interno del TensiNet un gruppo di lavoro sul tema «specifications» al
quale afferiscono almeno due rappresentanti per paese membro, un produt-
tore o confezionatore di tessuti e un professore universitario, con la finalità
di discutere tutti gli aspetti che informeranno la normativa comunitaria in
materia di strutture a membrana. In questo contesto è stato recentemente
lanciato anche un round robin exercise, ovvero una procedura di confronto
volontario delle apparecchiature di test dei vari laboratori universiatari e
privati attrezzati alla progettazione, all’analisi strutturale, alla misurazione
delle proprietà e alla simulazione fluido-dinamica di sistemi tensostruttu-
rali a membrana. Tale esercizio ha indirettamente coinvolto anche la sede
milanese, agli inizi del 2011 ancora non attiva con le proprie attrezzature,
e i primi risultati sono disponibili nell’atto del convegno IABSE-IASS Sym-
posium: Beccarelli, Bridgens, Galliot, Stimpfle, Zanelli (Sept. 2011), Round-
robin biaxial testing of architectural coated fabrics, London.
2
Il gruppo di ricerca SPACE coordina per il biennio 2010-2011 una ricerca
di base finanziata da Fondazione Cariplo – Bando Materiali avanzati dal
titolo: SOFT (Smart, Organic, Flexible and Translucent) – PV: Creation of
a Photovoltaic Organic Cell on Fluoropolymeric Substrate to Integrate into
Smart Building Envelopes, in parternariato con il dipartimento di Fisica del
Politecnico di Milano e l’Istituto per lo sviluppo delle Macromolecole del
CNR. L’acronimo SOFT, oltre a descrive la cella che si intende creare (Smart,
Organica, Flessibile, Traslucente) richiama la tecnologia degli involucri in
ETFE, comunemente nota come soft technology, in virtù della leggerezza e
NOTES commenced. This exercise indirectly acronym SOFT not only describes the
1
In June 2010, the European association involved the Milan site, despite not cells that are the goal, but also recalls the
TensiNet put forward Eurocode being fully functional in early 2011, ETFE coating commonly known as ‘soft
proposal CEN/TC250/WG5: Technical and the initial results are available as technology’ because of the lightness and
Guidance for the Design of Membrane part of the conference documentation flexibility of the fluoropolymer film used.
Structures, which was accepted after 30 for the IABSE-IASS Symposium: 3
According to Decision no. 1639/2006/
months. In the same year, a working Beccarelli, Bridgens, Galliot, Stimpfle, EC, establishing a Competitiveness and
group at TensiNet also worked on the Zanelli, Round-robin biaxial testing of Innovation Framework Programme, eco-
«specifications». This group included architectural coated fabrics, London, innovation «is any form of innovation
at least two representatives from each Sept. 2011. aiming at significant and demonstrable
member country - a textile manufacturer 2
For 2010-2011, the SPACE research progress towards the goal of sustainable
or producer and a university professor group is coordinating pure research development, through reducing impacts
- and was designed to discuss all the financed by Fondazione Cariplo on the environment or achieving a more
aspects relative to future EU law on (Advanced Materials proposals). The efficient and responsible use of natural
membrane structures. In this context, title is SOFT (Smart, Organic, Flexible resources, including energy».
a round-robin exercise (i.e. a voluntary and Translucent) - PV: Creation 4
For more on this, see: Habermas, J.
comparison of the various test of a Photovoltaic Organic Cell on (1971), “Technology and science as
equipment used in the university and Fluoropolymeric Substrate to Integrate “ideology”, in Toward a rational society:
private laboratories that are equipped into Smart Building Envelopes, in student protest, science, and politics,
to plan and design, structurally partnership with Politecnico di Milano’s London, Heinemann Educational
analyse, measure the properties and physics department and the Italian Books; Callaos, N. (2008), The Essence
simulate the fluid dynamics of tensile National Research Institute’s Institute for of Engineering and Meta-Engineering:
membrane structures) was recently Macromolecular Studies (ISMAC). The A Work in Progress, in: www.scis.
REFERENCES
Callaos, N. (2008), The Essence of Engineering and Meta-Engineering: A Work in Progress, disponibile in: www.scis.org/Nagib-
Calaos.
Emmer, M. (2008), Bolle di sapone. Tra arte e matematica, Bollati Boringhieri.
Fabbri, M. e Pastore, D. (Ed.) (1998), Architettura per il terzo millennio, Fondazione Adriano Olivetti, Roma.
Foucault, M. (1966), Les mots et les choses, Gallimard, Paris (tr. it. di Panaitescu, E. (1978), Le parole e le cose. Un’archeologia
delle scienze umane, Rizzoli, Milano).
Gaut B. (2009), “Creativity and Skill”, in Krausz, M., Dutton, D. e Bardsley, K. (2009), The Idea of Creativity, BRILL, Leiden-
Boston, pp. 84-103.
Guattari F. (1989), Cartographies schizoanalitiques, Paris, Galilée, pp. 291-301 (tr. it. Cartografia schizoanalitica. L’enunciazione
architettonica, in AA.VV. Guattari, F., Architettura della sparizione, architettura totale. Spaesamenti metropolitani, Millepiani,
n. 7, Mimesis, Milano, 1996, pp. 25-32).
Guazzo G. (2003), “I ‘molti modi’ del pensiero progettuale”, in Bertoldini M. e Zanelli A. (Ed) (2003), Tecnica, progetto e
scienze umane, Libreria Clup, Milano.
Habermas, J. (1971), “Technology and science as ‘ideology’, in Toward a rational society: student protest, science, and politics.
London: Heinemann Educational Books.
Ricci, G. (2001), La logica di Dedalo. Tecnologia, progetto e parole dell’architettura, Liguori, Napoli.
org/Nagib-Calaos; and the definition used for innovative casing and covering being absorbed into that of methodology,
of «intensive poiesis» innovation solutions. The agreement is an incubator where the latter is seen as a diverse
formulated by Piero Bassetti in: http:// for technical building proposals that the cognitive approach to historical
www.fondazionebassetti.org/it/focus/ company and the researchers can develop and natural problems without any
innovazione_poiesis_intensive/. jointly, working on the basis of a concrete intention of establishing new truths and
5
This is the case with the 2010 contract opportunity each time. influences on the various fields of human
between the BEST department and the 7
In the contemporary world, «power experience, from science to art and
Municipality of Nora, which is designed is played out in terms of the speed of from the economy to politics» (Eduardo
to provide «technical and scientific communication and the control of Vittoria: quoted in Ricci, 2001, p. 4).
support for the design of an innovative information. In such circumstances 9
Giovanni Guazzo described constructive
coverage system using technical textiles architects are at a loss! [...] Politicians, imagination as follows: «given a specific
for the archaeology site at the small technocrats and engineers now manage practical problem to solve, the designer
Nora baths in Pula (Cafliari) and the such things with the least possible comes up with a possible solution on the
microclimate monitoring of the two contribution from the men of the art basis of the materials and tools available
mosaics of the two small baths at the Hegel once placed first among all other in the immediate vicinity; then, through
Nora archaeology site. It also sets out the arts» (Guattari, 1989, Trans. from the mental gymnastics, adapting the one
monitoring of the thermohygrometric Italian translation 1996, p. 25). to the other and both to the planned
performance of the coverage for the 8
« [...] the search for a technological building solution, he or she begins
mosaics». dimension that is commensurate with directly to wrestle with the problem;
6
The three-year research agreement the structures of the world today and and it is precisely while building that
between SPACE and Canobbio (a geared towards a different organisation it becomes clear whether the foreseen
company) is an example of this. It covers of society in the future, points to the solution is practical or not» (Guazzo,
Advanced fluoropolymer textiles to be idea of the very concept of technology 2003).
Using Technology and Innovative Abstract. Permasteelisa Group is a manufacturer of curtain walls specialized worldwide
in the creation of personalized architectural envelopes. The Group’s mission is to use
Designs to Build Complex innovative design methods and advanced technologies to construct architecturally
significant façades. In order to meet project budget and timing requirements 3D model-
Architectural Envelopes ling, personalized applications and automated production processes have been imple-
mented company-wide. Together with the new technologies, the new design methods
developed within the company, such as cold-formed units of curtain walls and toleran-
ce compensation units, have given designers the ability to break classic design rules.
Key words: Curtain wall, Façades, Innovation, Technology, 3D Models
As architects push the limits of design with taller buildings and geometrically
complex facades, new technologies and innovative designs in curtainwall
construction are emerging to keep up with these demands. Working as an engineer
with the curtainwall contractor Permasteelisa for the past several years, I have been
involved with utilizing advanced technologies in order to improve the engineering
processes on some of our more challenging projects. The ability to collaborate
with the architect at the early stages of design by using new technology has led
to the success of many of these projects. In order to reduce cost and meet project
schedules, 3D modeling software, custom MRP (Material Requirements Planning)
applications, and automated processes were implemented within the company. Along
ISSN online: 2239-0243 with new technologies, new design methods like cold-warping curtainwall units and
© 2011 Firenze University Press transitioning between offset units have not only met the design criteria for a specific
http://www.fupress.com/techne facade, but have given architects the ability to break traditional design rules.
Applicazioni Pur essendovi, sul mercato, molti validi strumenti di aiuto alla
personalizzate progettazione, in caso di lavori eccessivamente ripetitivi o di
carichi di lavoro sproporzionati legati a progetti complessi può
essere necessaria la creazione di uno strumento personalizzato ad
hoc o la realizzazione di un processo automatizzato. Alcuni edifici
possono richiedere la progettazione di più di 20.000 pezzi unici di
curtain wall che devono essere fabbricati, assemblati e spediti al
cantiere senza soluzione di continuità. Permasteelisa utilizza un
sistema MRP personalizzato al fine di raccogliere informazioni
geometriche dal wireframe 3D per guidare la fabbricazione di
modelli 3D e denominare ogni elemento in modo corretto. Il sistema
MRP mostra anche una rappresentazione grafica della facciata
per conservare la traccia delle varie unità, dalla progettazione alla
produzione. Tecniche di modellazione parametrica sono utilizzate
per ridimensionare i modelli di fabbricazione 3D, eliminando
gli errori che si fanno durante la reiterazione dell’operazione di
into our custom database (Fig. 1). on the market to assist in design, there
By using this geometric information are times when the repetitive tasks and
during the value engineering process, workload of a more complex project
more cost scenarios can then be call for a custom tool or automated
analyzed in a shorter amount of time. process. Some projects can lead to
On one project, the model not only more than 20,000 unique curtainwall
provided square footage information parts that need to be fabricated,
quickly, but the architect embedded assembled together, and shipped to
data onto each metal panel that site seamlessly. Permasteelisa uses
categorized the surface as flat, curved, a custom MRP system in order to
capped, or knife-edged. This allowed harvest geometric information from
us to quantify the metal panel types the 3D wireframe to drive the 3D
quickly and import the information fabrication models and name each
into our software to estimate the new part properly. The MRP system also
cost. The tight collaboration with the displays a graphical representation of
architect and the ability to work from the facade to track the units from the
the same 3D software platform allowed design stage to production. Parametric
for this architecturally significant modeling techniques are used to resize
facade to be built with cost-savings in the 3D fabrication models, eliminating
mind. mistakes that are made when modeling
the same condition more than once
Custom Applications (Fig. 2). While there are still many
While there are many beneficial tools companies that primarily use 2D
Metodi di Man mano che gli involucri architettonici diventano più 02 | La modellazione parametrica di modelli di
lavorazione complessi e vengono raggiunte altezze di costruzione sempre fabbricazione 3D
più importanti, non rappresentano più un’eccezione gli esempi Parametric modeling of 3D fabrication models
03 |
unit below. This is outside the bounds from all of Permasteelisa’s offices.
of conventional curtainwall design These technical support groups are
where the units must be aligned to given access to an internal company
achieve a proper air and water barrier. forum and meet regularly to share
By sharing knowledge and experiences ideas, software questions, and research
of similar concepts throughout the projects. Formal classes have also been
company, a two-piece gutter system developed to train each office on the
was designed that satisfied unit offsets design, building physics, and structural
up to 15 inches (Fig. 4). The parameters engineering concepts of curtainwall.
were shared with the architect early Learning from past experiences, new
in the design phase, so they could be software deployment strategies are being
incorporated into the design of the developed to include global standards
facade. Attributing to the success of and customized training materials to
both projects, was the considerable build talented personnel worldwide.
amount of interaction with the This will mitigate the amount of
architect and our early involvement in confusion and issues that can arise
the design phase. when new technology is introduced.
These training efforts are common
Training for large manufacturers, but they are
In order to promote new technology applicable to a construction project
and innovative thinking within the as well. For instance, architects and
company, technical support groups have manufacturers should meet regularly
been created with global representation to discuss new ideas and research
Beekman Tower
Luogo | Venue 8, Spruce Street, Manhattan, New York (USA)
Progetto | Design Frank O. Gehry
Data ultimazione | Completed in 2010
Numero di piani | Numbersof floors 76
Altezza | Height 267 m
Più di 25.000 parti di curtain wall uniche e 100.000 parti uniche di fissaggio del pannello.
7.700 unità uniche di curtain wall. 40.000 metri quadrati totali di curtain wall.
More than 25,000 unique curtainwall parts and 100,000 unique panel assembly parts.
7,700 unique curtainwall units. 427,734 total square footage.
InterActiveCorp Headquarters
Luogo | Venue Manhattan, New York (USA)
Progetto | Design Frank O. Gehry
Data ultimazione | Completed in 2007
Numero di piani | Numbersof floors 10
REFERENCES
Jenkins, J., Cory, C., Kahn, R. e Holt, E. (2010), BIM 101: An Introduction to BIM Modeling, The Associated General
Contractors of America, Virgina.
Conclusions
The ability to collaborate with
the designer early in the process
has fostered innovative designs
and efficient methods of sharing
information. To display the design
intent of complex facades accurately
and improve the quality during the
production phase, 3D models have
been used in all stages of a project.
Automating some of the processes
has also increased efficiency and
led to more accurate results. Taking
Abstract. La ricerca analizza la recente evoluzione registrata nel settore della pro- RICERCA/RESEARCH
gettazione e della produzione di componenti di involucro intelligente, costituiti da
layer dinamici, in funzione dell’esigenza di individuare i parametri tecnologici, fun-
zionali, qualitativi e prestazionali che guidano le scelte degli attori del processo di
innovazione e li spingono a sviluppare soluzioni e proposte finalizzate a trasformare
l’involucro dell’edificio da elemento statico ad elemento dinamico, capace di inte-
ragire, attraverso l’interoperabilità dei suoi componenti, con gli input dell’ambiente
interno ed esterno, rispetto al quale l’involucro è collocato come sistema di confine
e delimitazione.
Il programma di ricerca, sviluppato nell’ambito della tesi di dottorato “Smart Skin
Envelope: Sistemi di facciata intelligenti per il risparmio energetico” e della ricer-
ca “Abitare Mediterraneo”, indaga, in particolare, il settore degli Smart Envelopes,
ponendosi come obiettivo prioritario quello di individuarne e definirne le prestazioni
energetiche, sia attraverso l’analisi dello stato dell’arte che attraverso lo sviluppo di
un componente di facciata dinamico.
Parole chiave: Involucro architettonico, Componenti dinamici di facciata, Risparmio
energetico, Energie rinnovabili
Building envelope innovation: Abstract. The research analyzes the evolution of smart façade systems in the
area of design and industrial production, in order to investigate the technological,
smart facades for non functional and qualitative standards of dynamic façade and evaluate the energy
performance of the building envelope as a dynamic system that interacts between
residential buildings indoor and outdoor environment. The study focused on dynamic envelopes for office
building analyzing the evolution of façade systems in terms of: building construction,
innovative systems, smart materials, dynamic system. Aiming to improve building
energy performances.
The research, developed during the PhD thesis “Smart Envelope - dynamic and
innovative technologies for energy saving” and the research “Abitare Mediterraneo”,
aims to identify and define the energy performances of smart envelopes trough
the analysis of the state of art, related to dynamic building envelope of double skin
façade, and the development of a new dynamic façade system.
Key words: Energy Saving, Dynamic Skin, Smart Envelopes, Renewable Energy
example, have proposed new living form of photovoltaic and solar thermal the transparent module to be opened
models where buildings can change panels at night to improve night cooling in
configuration at the same time of the – to apply and test new and innovative the building during summer.
outdoor climate conditions. energy saving technologies in order The first idea of the design concept
The adaptive architectures can – to improve the energy performance has been the development of dynamic
be considered the future of the and the indoor environment of office and automatic system, that can change
contemporary architectural research buildings. its configuration also without the
and they can decrease the energy regulation of building users, decreasing
balance of buildings trough the control The smart skin developed in this the energy consumption for heating
of thermal energy, light energy and research is a mobile double skin with and cooling.
sound wave. a 50% opaque module, where a PV or The dynamic façade system is an
The research has the following solar thermal panel can be integrated, innovative solution and meets the
objectives: and a 50% transparent module. The current market needs in the building
– to classify intelligent and dynamic façade consists of several parts ‘dry’ envelop sector. In the last years this
envelopes related to building assembled with a window frame whit market sector have been develop the
production an aluminum metal coating. envelops that can change color and
– to set characteristics of technologic The modules are dynamic and can form in a short time and that can
systems and materials change configuration because the improve the building energy savings,
– to identify design principles façade is integrated with two mobile ensuring a good thermal insulation,
and operative tools for design and panels with a shading device and a and decreasing the production cost.
production of innovative building glass panel. In front of the transparent
envelope module a metallic mosquito net is Technological features
– to integrate renewable energy, in installed that allowing the window of The smart envelope is a unitized
system module, ‘dry’ assembled and double skin façade system, where it is The facade system uses a technological
allows an easy installation on building possible to customize the indoor skin, solution with the recessed panels. This
site. This façade system has a simple the air gap and the outdoor panel. mechanism allowed to hide in the
geometric design made with two The dynamic facade achieves good aluminum box the mobile elements:
modules: transparent and opaque. The performances in the terms of: the glass panel and the shading device.
modules can be installed with different – Thermal transmittance: the The recessed panel can bear a weight
geometries and in their frames different transparent indoor wall has a U value of of 180 Kg.
types of materials with different colors 1,2 W/m2K and the opaque indoor wall The mosquito net formed by a metallic
can be placed. has a U value of 0,3 W/m2K grid guarantees the window opening
The modules consist of fixed and – Acoustic insulation: 50dB and the night ventilation in summer
mobile parts, that can be operated – Mechanical Resistance: the façade has months in order to dissipate the hot
trough automatic or manual controls. a good fire resistance and mechanical stored in the office during the day.
The mobile parts, placed in the properties and can be tested with In the opaque outdoor module three
aluminum frames, are: accidental and dynamic loads PV panels can be installed that have
– an aluminum shading device – Air and water permeability: the an electrical energy production
– a transparent panel with stratified weather strip used in the frame between 0,50 and 0,30 kWP. The energy
glass 4 + 4. avoids the formation of moisture and production depends on orientation and
A vertical mosquito net is placed in guarantes a good air proofness localization of the façade system.
front of the indoor transparent module – Maintainability: the modular In winter the mobile glass panel is
and prevents the entrance of animals elements enable to repair, with isolated placed in front of the transparent
and insects in the office, while ensuring actions of maintainability, the facade module. So the smart facade will have
the night cooling. system without changing the global the shape of a double skin facade with
The façade system is designed as a performance of the façade a buffer zone that increase its U value
to 0.6 W/m2K. In this configuration different climatic zones in Italy: 3. Glass curtain wall with double glass
the façade guarantees a good thermal – Milan and thermal break frame. Size: 5,00 x
insulation and doesn’t decrease the – Florence 3,00 m.
natural lighting into the work spaces. – Palermo 4. Glass curtain wall with double glass,
In summer the panel with the And compared to four cardinal thermal break frame and external fixed
shading device is placed in front of directions: shading device system with aluminum
the transparent module, regulating – East venetians . Size: 5,00 x 3,00 m.
direct solar radiation and decreasing – South
heat load in the office. The mosquito – West 5. Glass curtain wall with double glass,
net is down so it is possible to obtain – North thermal break frame and external
a natural ventilation in the indoor mobile shading device system with
spaces all day long. aluminum venetians . Size: 5,00 x 3,00
We have built a virtual test room (3) m.
The sun screen, made with mobile and that has a size of 5,00 x 5,00 x 3,00 m
metallic lamellae, allows to regulate and has a wall where is possible to put 6. Double skin façade (unitized system
the light and minimize the glare the following façade systems (opaque typology) with natural ventilation of the
phenomena. and transparent): buffer zone. Internal and external layers
have size: 5,00 x 3,00 m.
Energy Simulations 1. Window with double glass and
thermal break frame. Size: 3,00 x 1,35 7. Double skin façade (unitized system
We have simulated the energy typology) with natural ventilation of the
performance of the facade system (4) m.
buffer zone and fixed shading device
using thermodynamic and lighting 2. Window with double glass and system located inside the buffer zone.
software. The dynamic energy thermal break frame. Size: 3,00 x 2,50 Internal and external layers have size:
simulations have been made in three m.
U (W/m K)
2
0,38 0,24 0,21
5,00 x 3,00 m. parameters: But for the smart facade the energy
8. Double skin façade (unitized system – Primary energy for heating (Qheat, primary need is bigger than that
typology) with natural ventilation of kWh) required by a glassed curtain wall and
the buffer zone and mobile shading – Primary energy for cooling (Qheat, transparent double skin (Case 3: 3450
device system located inside the buffer kWh). kWh and Case 6: 3750 kWh) because
zone. Internal and external layers have Then we have calculated: the solar heat gain decreases with
size: 5,00 x 3,00 m. – The total primary energy supply decrease of transparent surface.
(kWh) When the mobile glass panel is placed
9. Opaque curtain wall made with – Heating and cooling consumptions in front of the transparent module the
a insulated panel with rock wool (€) heating needs decrease by 5%.
(thickness 8,00 cm) and a window with – Heating and cooling CO2 emissions In the future, to improve the summer
double glass and thermal break frame. (kg). energy performances, it could be
Window size: 3,00 x 1,35 m5. interesting to evaluate the input given
10. Smart façade. Winter configuration. The simulations show that: by the use, in the mobile panel, of TIM
11. Smart façade. Summer. – In winter months for the smart or other change phases materials.
configuration without shading device facade, the primary energy supply for The smart facade should be oriented
heating is lower than that required by a toward south in the purpose to improve
12. Smart façade. Summer
brick wall (Case 2, 50% of transparent the solar heat gains and decrease the
configuration with shading device.
module and 50 % of brick wall: 4500 energy consumption for heating .
The thermal simulations have been kWh). The primary energy supply for - In summer months the smart facade
done with TRNSYS (TRaNsient System the three cities chosen and the four guarantees good energy performance
Simulation Program)6, analyzing cardinal direction is, in fact, of 4380 and in the configuration with the
for each situations the following kWh. shading device placed in front of the
Peso (kg/m )2
20,4 45,8 66,2
Assorbimento A2 % - 7% 9
Assorbimento A3 % - - 12
transparent module the primary energy the average natural lighting in the test Conclusions
need is of 770,00 kWh (reduction by the room. The simulations have show that The research has involved companies,
70% for the cooling), lower than that the smart façade, that has a transparent leaders in the engineering and
performed by a brick wall with a central module of size 1,50 by 3,00, allows to production of facades: Schuco, Metra,
window (Case 1: 1100,00 kWh) and also achieve the following results: Permasteelisa, Focchi. The smart façade
lower than that of a glass curtain wall – Good performances in summer prototype was developed and realized
or of a double skin with fixed or mobile months, with an illumination of 592 lux by Davini, a Tuscan company, and was
shading devices (Case 4: 1500 kWh, – Inadequate performances in winter used in the construction of the south
Case 7: 895 kWh, Case 5: 1527 kWh months, when the glass panel is placed and east facades of the New Centre in
and Case 8: 899,00 kWh). in front of the transparent module, with virtual environments and ICT of Lucca
The smart facade should be oriented an illumination of 300 lux. Chamber of Commerce
toward south or north so to reduce the In order to reduce the energy The advice of the industrial companies
thermal loads and the solar heat gains consumptions for lighting, the smart has improved the technological
and decrease the energy consumption façade should be located in the spaces solutions of the production process and
for cooling. where it is possible to have two of the construction phase.
– The best orientation all year round, in windows located in opposing wall. It’s The façade system has Schuco thermal
Florence and Palermo, is south, with a also necessary to install a electronic break frame and Pilkington glass
reduction of primary energy for heating light system that controls the artificial panels. This choice allowed us to reduce
and cooling by 40%. light and allows to switching on only the cost of the smart façade, bringing
the lights in the areas that aren’t it, without PV panels, at 850,00 €/m2.
The lighting simulations have been reached from the solar radiation. This cost is the same of those with a
made with the software Relux, with traditional double skin.
which it has been possible to evaluate In the next months, finally, we will
03 | Componente di facciata
dinamicoFabbisogno di energia
primaria per il riscaldamento
Smart facade system. Primary
energy need for heating
04 | Componente di facciata
dinamico. Fabbisogno di energia
primaria per il raffrescamento
senza schermatura
Smart facade system. Primary
energy need for cooling without
shading device
05 | Componente di facciata
dinamico. Fabbisogno di energia
primaria per il raffrescamento
con sistema di schermatura 03 |
Smart facade system. Primary
energy need for cooling with
shading device
04 | 05 |
analyze the real performances of at this stage: prof. Marco Sala, arch. Integration of component in the
the smart façade applied to the Alessio Rullani, arch. Rosa Romano and building project of the New Centre
construction of the building in arch. Diego Cosentino. Arch. Diego in Virtual Environments and ICT
Lucca and in the test cell in Florence, Cosentino has analyzed a first concept Chamber of Commerce of Lucca, which
evaluating its energy behavior in the for the dynamic façade on occasion is currently under construction.
Mediterranean clime. of his thesis: Dynamic envelope in 3
The virtual test room consists
Architectural: a case study of a modular of insulated walls to ensure the
NOTES façade system for the energy saving. performance of transmittance and
1
The main objectives of ABITA Supervisor prof. Marco Sala, Supervisor thermal inertia scheduled for opaque
activities are to promote, organize assistant arch. Rosa Romano. vertical and horizontal closure by
and develop research activities in Analysis of technological solution: the Decree 192/2005 and subsequent
the field of systems and architectural Advice engineer has been Paolo Nobile, amendments. The air exchange
technologies and in the transformation Schueco Padova provided in the simulation is in
of the built and natural environment. Energy simulation with TRNSYS. Have accordance with the provisions of
ABITA promotes the collaboration with participated at this stage: prof. Maurizio the UNI 10339: 1995 for office space,
industry with the goal of developing De Lucia and ing. Davide Fissi, Energy achieved by natural ventilation, was
innovative and energy - efficient Department Luigi Stecco of the considered 0.6 h-1. The temperature
envelope systems. University of Florence. indoors has been planned: 21 degrees in
2
The smart facade has been developed winter, 26 ° in summer months. At this
The prototype was developed and early stage of simulations we have not
through: realized by DAVINI s.r.l, Lucca considered the contribution of internal
Concept design. Have participated
07 | Integrazione del
componente di facciata
nel Nuovo Centro
in ambienti virtuali e
ICT della Camera di
Commercio di Lucca
The dynamic envelope
in east facade of the
New Centre in virtual
environments and ICT
of Lucca Chamber of
Commerce
Universities Abstract. The Council of State Decision of 3 June 2011 reiterated some limitations on
planning activities carried out by the University, more restrictive than those already for-
and planning activities mulated by other courts. The grounds for the Decision, however, indicate some methods
that the University can adopt in order to apply its research to real cases, particularly in the
field of architecture. The provision of services, including planning, to a PA is acceptable
both if provided directly within the framework of public-public cooperation agreements
and if conducted through companies, set up by the University, that work for public bodies
in accordance with the “in-house” model. With the provision, however, that the collabo-
ration activities are strictly functional to the University’s institutional responsibilities, and
therefore that they have a strong scientific research component.
Key words: University, Planning services, Competition, Research, Public Administration
Decision No. 10 of 3rd June 2011, issued by the Plenary Sitting of the Council
of State, brought the long drawn-out and controversial business of setting up the
hoc company, created in 1995 by the IUAV Venice University for the purposes
of planning-related activities, to a close.
Accepting the appeals of numerous professional associations of architects and
engineers of several of the Veneto provinces, the Council of State ruled that a public
Italian university could only set up «a commercial engineering company if strict
conditions guaranteeing its direct instrumentality for university purposes were
ISSN online: 2239-0243 adhered to, [i.e.]:
© 2011 Firenze University Press (i) a direct link between the business activities and the universities’ institutional
http://www.fupress.com/techne remit;
(ii) adequate mechanisms to ensure by specific legislation, rather than These limitations were naturally received
its instrumentality, such as a company approved in general terms, especially extremely favourably by professional
mission statement setting out the nature in where non-profit public bodies engineering bodies and companies,
of projects to be undertaken (...as related were concerned […]»; thereby also but were also thought justifiable and
to ventures raising the sorts of issues «preventing people with preferential pertinent by other sectorial operators
that would inform both research and rights from operating in competitive including the Confindustria Employers’
teaching), conditional on the fact that any markets»2. Federation and ANCE , the main Italian
particular company would consist solely of Many of the comments made in the Association of Building Companies6.
university teaching staff and students, or immediate aftermath of the ruling3 were However, although the limitations
recent graduates within a set period after to the effect that these conditions were imposed by the Decision on planning
graduation, and clearly defined conditions much broader-ranging than needed in and design activities undertaken by
of employment; the case of the IUAV and would in fact universities are clearly set out, the
(iii) tools for partners to ensure adequate prevent the university from submitting points relating to other parts of the
company monitoring; tenders for planning and design Council of State’s Decision are far less
(iv) all profits to be deployed for university services. Although the complexity of discussed, particularly those relating to
purposes; the issue might have dictated a rather the ‘positive’ benefits of actual solutions
(v) the exclusion of private partners»1. more cautious approach (and further arrived at through university research,
The ruling also stipulated that any juridical exploration)4, the premises especially in the architectural field.
commercial company set up by a public underpinning the ruling would appear to This is the most interesting aspect from
body «operating on the open market, in offer narrower interpretations than those a university’s viewpoint, however,
competition with private operators, and previously formulated by other juridical because it enables a workable legal
accepting commissions from both public bodies on the same matter5, and actually framework to be identified, which
and private bodies […] had to be covered constituted insuperable limitations. will serve to underpin «design
practice in the School [which] may professionals. Finally, as a corollary to solutions (absolute public participation,
constitute an extremely promising the latter, there is the collective interest entirely without private capital, or private
field of experimentation in didactic in «Universities as leaders in the field of control, its activities geared exclusively
terms, thus potentially bolstering the scientific research» in which «research or largely to the public partner), [a
professionalising aspect of study courses and consultancy, while deployed for formula] that is a neutral organisational
[bringing] Italian universities [into the use of public bodies, cannot be module, regulated by the institution,
line] with more advanced European indiscriminate […] but must dovetail under the intrinsic condition that all
establishments»7. absolutely with university remits, which forms of organisation are always and
The disputes between the IUAV and are to provide research and teaching, in necessarily instrumental to the pursuit
professional bodies in the Veneto hinge that they will be of benefit to research of the institutional ends of the institution
on an unresolved conflict between and teaching, or generate funds that itself […]»9.
at least three points recognised as will then be deployed for research and Cooperative ventures between
being socially relevant and therefore teaching purposes»8. universities and other administrations
covered by law: on one hand, there is In a complex situation such as this, were always the preferred option of
the interest in open, fair competition identifying the conditions that will the Conference of Italian University
for all participants in public tenders, enable these activities to be performed Rectors (CRUI), as demonstrated in the
which would allow commissioning compatibly with the legislative “Observations” relating to the Authority
Administrations to obtain the best framework has to be a priority. for the Supervision of Public Contracts
planning services at the most favourable The Council of State ruling identifies for Works, Services and Supplies (AVPC)
conditions. On the other, there is a the setting up of in-house university Hearing of 7th July 2010 in regard to
public School in a position to offer companies, for the purposes of carrying “Problems in the matter of tenders”
top quality training, which produces out activities for public bodies, as the submitted by universities and similar
skilled, up-to-date and well trained most appropriate of all practicable institutions “as provided for under
Legislative Decree No. 163/2006 [Public to contribute to the social, cultural, the public purposes as set out in the
Contracts Code]”10. financial and civil progress of the universities’ regulations (with particular
On that occasion, the Rectors’ collective»11. reference to the carrying out of scientific
Conference was the only body to «No matter how the issue of universities research), and the public purposes
be consulted on the matter by the taking part in procurement bids or determined by the regulations of other
Supervisory Authority, which thought competitions for commissions against stipulating PAs (which would benefit
it inappropriate for universities to take private economic operators is resolved, from the research outcomes in terms
part in tender submissions, on the it cannot invalidate the fundamental of tackling issues or solving problems
grounds that «[…]competition logic, principles of national and EU rights, essential to their own institutional
which establishes EU regulations on no matter how indirectly, with regard remits)»13.
the judging procedures for tenders to the full legitimacy of public-public This means that it could qualify
for public works, does not apply to cooperation as a radically alternative as an appropriate procedural and
collaborations between universities model (not, therefore, exceptionally organisational structure for overseeing
and public administrations geared to departing from) that of external university research activities relating
promoting scientific and technical competition between different economic to other Public Administrations14;
research. […] From this viewpoint, the operators»12. these also include activities involving
stipulation of agreements or covenants Thus, the combined upshot of the «research into complex planning and
between universities and public bodies Council of State Decision of 3rd June design problems, based on a mixture
is not just a means of procuring valuable 2011 and the CRUI AVCP Observations of skills and a multi-disciplinary
funding for university research purposes, of July 2010, would seem to suggest approach, geared to innovation and
but a means of passing on the results that «a collaboration agreement experimentation […], involving
and benefits of university research to [would be] an excellent instrument for individual faculty members and the
public partners, thus enabling the former simultaneously pursuing and achieving scientific community at various levels,
from feasibility studies to planning at very nature involve a certain amount public administrations, particularly
various levels of intervention15». of scientific research. where innovation-focused, will have
This collaboration could undoubtedly Documented evidence of the fact to be chosen with care, and therefore
take a great many different forms, all that the prospective collaboration is the research component that
of which would be likely directly to geared to «carrying out experimental characterises the university input will
involve university departments, as has scientific research, the preservation have to be demonstrated by objective
already been widely and repeatedly and furtherance of general theoretical and circumstantial indicators.
trialled16, as well as new ad hoc juridical knowledge gained during research, In some cases, it is quite clear that
and organisational bodies, set up put to the test with real, concrete, a significant amount of applied research
by universities, possibly in the form particularly complex problems, with by university consultancies will be
of partnerships, yet unambiguously a view also to employing abstract entailed. For example:
conforming to in-house company models knowledge in the pursuit of innovation – the development and trialling
as outlined by the Council and progress in the social, economic, of building systems, materials and
of State. civil and cultural fabric» will also be innovative components;
Within this system, one final but by no required17. – the development and trialling of
means marginal issue, relating to the Simply stating that the «planning unconventional procedural models
nature of the activity that is the focus activities carried out within a university and the relative processes;
of collaboration remains unresolved, can be classed as research»18, is not in – urban planning and architectural
however. In order to remain absolutely itself enough – solid evidence must and design planning in interventions
consistent with the model, any services be provided to back up this assertion calling for particularly high skills-bases,
carried out by a university to third in each individual case19. Instances in rated according to globally recognised
parties must be strictly germane to its which the faculties of architecture can standards, in the matter of energy saving
institutional remit and therefore by their provide skilled consultancy to other and sustainability, for example;
NOTE
1
CdS, Sentenza 03-06-2011, n.10 (Adunanza plenaria), Punto 37.
2
CdS, Sentenza 03-06-2011, n.10 (Adunanza plenaria), Punto 34.
3
Fra gli altri: Andrea Mascolini, “Atenei, il cds blocca le attività commerciali. Il
Consiglio di stato limita i casi in cui le università possono agire sul mercato come
operatori economici”, Italia Oggi, 10.06.11; Roberto Mangani, “Progettazione -
Sentenza consiglio di stato n. 10/2011. Alt ai progetti firmati dalle Università”,
Edilizia e Territorio - Norme e Documenti, n. 24, 20/25.06.11; Massimo Frontiera,
“Ateneo-progettista, no da Palazzo Spada. Professionisti soddisfatti della senten-
za del Consiglio di Stato. I giudici dicono stop alle università attive nel mercato
dei servizi. Esultano Oice e gli Ordini di ingegneri e architetti: «Era concorrenza
sleale»”, Edilizia e Territorio - Progetti e Concorsi, n. 24, 20/25.06.11; Camillo Ro-
mandini, “In house o out? Professioni vs Università”, Il giornale dell’Architettura,
anno 10, n.97, agosto-settembre 2011, pag.1.
4
A dispetto delle sintesi giornalistiche, su molti risvolti della questione esami-
nata la decisione del Consiglio di Stato appare decisamente meno tranciante. Vi
si afferma ad esempio che: «Entro i limiti […] di stretta strumentalità rispetto
alle finalità istituzionali dell’Ente, che sono la ricerca e l’insegnamento, deve am-
mettersi che l’Università possa agire quale operatore economico nei confronti di
– assistance in formulating procurement firmati dalle Università”, Edilizia e to act as economic operators for public
bids for planning contracts, taking part Territorio - Norme e Documenti, No.. clients (or comparable actors as provided
in adjudicating committees. As long 24, 20/25.06.11; Massimo Frontiera, for under Legislative Decree 163/2006),
as the work done by the universities “Ateneo-progettista, no da Palazzo not just directly, but also through
comes under the heading of «planning Spada. Professionisti soddisfatti della appropriate companies.» (CoS, Decision
research into complex problems, based sentenza del Consiglio di Stato. I giudici 03-06-2011, No.10 (Plenary Sitting),
on multi-disciplinary skills integration dicono stop alle università attive nel Para. 34.7).
and approach […]»20 there will be many mercato dei servizi. Esultano Oice e gli 5
Two particularly relevant precedents
other potential fields of application. Ordini di ingegneri e architetti: «Era exist. The first is the EU Court of Justice
concorrenza sleale,»” Edilizia e Territorio Ruling of 23rd December 2009 (on case
NOTES - Progetti e Concorsi, No. 24, 20/25.06.11; C-305/08: National Inter-University
1
CoS, Decision 03-06-2011, No. 10 Camillo Romandini, “In house o out? Consortium of Marine Sciences
(Plenary Sitting), Para. 37. Professioni vs Università”, Il giornale (CoNISMa) vs. the Marches Regional
2
CoS, Decision 03-06-2011, No. 10 dell’Architettura, Year 10, No. 97, August- Council) which rules that «Member
(Plenary Sitting), Para. 34. September 2011, p.1. States can regulate the activities of
3
These include: Andrea Mascolini, 4
Despite conflicting press coverage, entities, such as universities and research
“Atenei, il cds blocca le attività the Council of State’s decision appears institutes, which are non-profit-making
commerciali. Il Consiglio di stato limita considerably less trenchant in several and whose primary object is teaching
i casi in cui le università possono agire respects. It states, for example, that: and research. They can, inter alia,
sul mercato come operatori economici,” «Within the limitations […] of strict determine whether or not such entities
Italia Oggi, 10.06.11; Roberto Mangani, instrumentality to the institutional ends are authorised to operate on the market,
“Progettazione - Sentenza consiglio of the university, which are research and according to whether the activity
di stato n. 10/2011. Alt ai progetti teaching, universities should be allowed in question is compatible with their
objectives as an institution and those laid and Supplies (AVCP) held a wide- 8
CoS, Decision 03-06-2011, No.10
down in their statutes», and on this basis ranging consultation with various (Plenary Sitting), Paras. 34.5 and 34.7.
allows them to submit procurement bids, economic and institutional operators 9
CoS, Decision 03-06-2011, No.10
even where no business facility exists, on the interpretation of Art. 34 of (Plenary Sitting), Para. 34.
if they do not normally operate on the Legislative Decree (“Public Contracts 10
Conference of Italian University
open market and are in receipt of public Code”), in regard to universities Rectors’ Observations (CRUI) on the
funding. The second is the ensuing and similar institutions taking part basic document “Problems in the matter
Regulation (No.7 of 21.10.2010) with in bids for tenders. This interesting of submitting tenders as provided for
which the Authority for the Supervision collection of opinions, along with the under Legislative Decree No. 163/2006
of Public Contracts for Works, Services framework document put together by for Universities and similar institutions”.
and Supplies partly altered the previous the Authority itself, which forms the Authority for the Supervision of Public
Regulation No. 179/2002, stipulating that basis for the consultation, is available on Contracts for Works, Services and
in procurement competitions for public the AVCP website: http://www.avcp.it/ Supplies Hearing, 7th July 2010. [http://
works, clients may also accept bids from portal/public/classic/Comunicazione/ www.avcp.it/portal/public/classic/
universities in conformity with European ConsultazioniOnLine/_consultazioni?id Comunicazione/ConsultazioniOnLine/_
legislation on the principle of free =266f42c30a7780a500625a57854eb8ef consultazioni/_allegatoConsultazione?i
competition, despite the fact that Art. 34 7
“Fare e Insegnare architettura in dAllegato=76c236010a7780a50161d448
of Legislative Decree No. 163/2006 does Italia”, Conclusions of the Docenza e 2b2042fc]
not list universities among those parties Pratica del Progetto Forum, organised 11
Ibid.
permitted to take part in competitions by the National Architectural Planning 12
Ibid.
for public works’ contracts. Coordination Committee, ICAR 13
Ibid.
6
The Authority for the Supervision of Deemed University sectors 14, 15 and 16, 14
«Art. 15 of Law No. 241/1990 is a
Public Contracts for Works, Services Ischia, 8th and 9th April 2011 (Para. 5). legal provision of a general nature,
which allows public administrations interferes with their scientific and and 16, practical planning is an integral
to set up agreements with other public teaching remits, universities may carry part of research, and is therefore a
administrations, without public out research and consultancy activities as crucial part of acquiring and developing
consultation, geared to regulating the laid down in contracts and agreements scientific knowledge, for keeping abreast
carrying out of “activities of common with public and private bodies. These of technical and didactic developments
interest.” Administrative law contains contracts and agreements will be and taking an active part in architectural
a series of principles and regulations made with the departments, by law; debate.» (“Fare e Insegnare architettura
in relation to Art. 15 […], stipulating however, where the latter do not exist, in Italia,” op. cit., Preface). Put like this,
in particular that: “given the existence with university institutions or clinics or the assertion is laid open to dispute,
of common interests forming the individual full-time faculty members. » and should therefore be accompanied
basis of collaboration agreements 17
Conference of Italian University Rectors’ by specific information on the aims and
between administrations as set out Observations, op. cit. methods of the research in question.
in Art. 15 of Law No. 241/1990, the 18
“Fare e Insegnare architettura in Italia”, 20
Ibid., Para. 3.
regulations concerning the choice of op. cit., Para. 4.
contractor provided for under State 19
The document also introduces a
accountability legislation do not apply.” second argument, which postulates
(CoS, Section I, 17th April 1996, No. a sort of “automatic” attribution of
3670).» (Conference of Italian University scientific value to planning activities
Rectors’ Observations, op. cit.). carried out by faculty members.
15
“Fare e Insegnare architettura in Italia”, «University teaching staff must be able
op. cit., Para. 5. to carry out applied research as relevant
16
Art. 66 of Presidential Decree No. to their field of discipline. For teachers in
382/1980, states that «Unless this ICAR Deemed University sectors 14, 15
Le specificità dei contesti all’interno dei quali operano i Soci SITdA e la particolarità delle politiche
didattiche e scientifiche che le Sedi universitarie perseguono possono rappresentare, proprio per la loro
diversità, un irrinunciabile valore aggiunto per la Società.
In questo numero, TECHNE offre spazio ad ogni singola Sede universitaria (e ad ogni singolo Socio) per
presentare attività di ricerca e formazione; i suggerimenti e le proposte che perverranno per strutturare
questa sezione della rivista, se largamente condivisi, diventeranno operativi con il prossimo numero.
Ora, al momento, TECHNE esce semestralmente; è di tutta evidenza che determinati aspetti di alcune
tematiche debbano essere invece divulgati e discussi “in tempo reale” per poter poi operare con la dovuta
tempestività ed efficacia: il sito della SITdA (blog, news), oltre a soddisfare l’esigenza di immediatezza,
garantisce un costante confronto fra tutti indistintamente i Soci; in prossimità della uscita di Techne i
documenti più significativi (anche se in contrapposizione fra essi) verranno ospitati nella rivista per una
più adeguata diffusione, anche internazionale.
The specificity of the contexts within which the members of SITdA operate and the particular educational and scientific
policies pursued by the universities, may represent, on account of their very diversity, essential added value for our society.
In this issue, TECHNE provides space for each individual university (and each individual member) to present research and
training activities; the suggestions and proposals received to organize this section of the magazine, if widely accepted, will be
put into effect in the next issue.
At present Techne comes out every six months; it is quite clear that certain aspects of some themes should instead be disclosed
and discussed “in real time” in order to act promptly and effectively: the SITdA website (blog, news), in addition to meeting
the immediacy requirement, ensures a constant comparison between all members without distinction; as we approach the
release of TECHNE the most important documents (even
if they contrast with each other) shall go into the magazine for more effective dissemination, even internationally.
Spartaco Paris
RIFERIMENTI
Beccu, M. e Paris, S., “Involucro architettonico contemporaneo tra progetto e costruzione”, R Design Press,
Roma, 2008.
Paris, S., Voce “Tecnologia dell’Architettura”, in Enciclopedia della scienza e della Tecnica, Treccani, Roma, 2008.
Paris, S., “Architecture in the Time...of the Segway”, DIID. DISEGNO INDUSTRIALE INDUSTRIAL DESIGN, n.
45, People as Design Transformers; pp. XVIII-XIII.
Paris, S., “Ambiente, energia e tecnologia. Paradigmi per il progetto, dall’oggetto al territorio”, in Biamonti, A.,
D.a.r.e. un futuro - Design Ambiente Ricerca Energia, pp. 214-217, Milano.
Paris, S., Architettura e Tecnologia. Lectures, Roma, RDesign Press.
Paris, S. e Bagnato, V., “Technological Innovation And Mass Customization: The architectural envelope.
Technological innovation in architecture by digital tools”, in ARHITECTURA.
Michele Di Sivo
RIFERIMENTI
Ashby W.R., 1971, Introduzione alla cibernetica, Einaudi, Torino.
Bresso M., 1996, Per un’economia ecologica, NIS, Roma.
Dioguardi G., 2004, I sistemi organizzativi, Bruno Mondadori, Milano.
Di Sivo M., 1996, Il progetto di manutenzione, Alinea, Firenze.
Di Sivo M., 2004, Manutenzione Urbana, Alinea, Firenze.
Ferracuti G., 1994, Qualità, Tempo, Manutenzione. Scritti sulla manutenzione edilizia, urbana e ambientale (1982-
1992), Alinea, Firenze.
Pearce D., Barbier E., Markandya A., 1990, Sustainable Development: Economics and Environment in the Third
World, Edward Elgar, Aldershot.
Daniela Ladiana
RIFERIMENTI
Caterina G. (a cura di), 2005, Per una cultura manutentiva, Liguori, Napoli.
Ciribini G., 1984, Tecnologia e progetto. Argomenti di cultura tecnologica della progettazione, Celid, Torino.
Commission of the European Communities, Directorate General for Development, Evaluation Unit, Project
Cycle Management: integrated approach and logical framework, febbraio 1993.
Commission of the European Communities, Directorate General for Development, Evaluation Unit, Project
Cycle Management Handbook, marzo 2002.
Dioguardi G., 2003, “Manutenzione d’eccellenza come strategia d’innovazione”, in Strumenti e Partners per una
Manutenzione di Eccellenza. Atti del XX Congresso Nazionale AIMAN (Bologna, 20-21 febbraio 2003), AIMAN,
Milano.
Di Sivo M., 1996, Il progetto di manutenzione, Alinea, Firenze.
Di Sivo M., 2004, Manutenzione Urbana, Alinea, Firenze.
Ferracuti G., 1994, Qualità, Tempo, Manutenzione. Scritti sulla manutenzione edilizia, urbana e ambientale (1982-
1992), Alinea, Firenze.
La sede SITdA La struttura di riferimento del Politecnico di Milano entro cui operano
di Milano i soci SITdA e l’area disciplinare della Tecnologia dell’Architettura
è il Dipartimento di Scienza e Tecnologie dell’Ambiente Costruito
(Building Environment Science & Technology). Il BEST si è costituito
nel 2002 sulla base di un articolato progetto scientifico, condiviso
da docenti delle discipline della Tecnologia dell’Architettura e della
Produzione edilizia (ex DI.Tec – area Architettura) e dell’Architettura
tecnica (ex DISET – area Ingegneria), volto a rispondere agli
obiettivi di qualità e sostenibilità globale nel settore delle costruzioni
che emergevano dall’evoluzione degli scenari culturali, normativi e
operativi in atto a scala nazionale e internazionale.
La matrice transcalare e transdisciplinare del progetto scientifico del
BEST ha attratto in modo continuativo docenti di aree disciplinari
diverse (fisica tecnica ambientale, economia ed estimo, restauro,
topografia e cartografia), favorendo importanti sinergie nell’attività
di ricerca.
Attualmente, cinque dei dieci gruppi di ricerca che compongono
il BEST sono coordinati da docenti di Tecnologia dell’Architettura.
Nell’affrontare le tematiche oggetto di studio la dimensione
progettuale assume una particolare centralità, tanto da informare sia
gli aspetti metodologici, sia l’interpretazione e la definizione delle
dinamiche di innovazione tecnologica, tipologica e ambientale alle
diverse scale di approfondimento, da quella dei sistemi territoriali ed
edilizi (esistenti e di nuova costruzione) fino a quella dei componenti
e dei prodotti.
Il gruppo di ricerca Coordinato da Claudio Molinari, pone al centro dei suoi studi il
Tecnologie innovative ciclo di vita del prodotto edilizio. In particolare l’attività di ricerca
nel progetto di si articola nell’applicazione di metodi e procedure di valutazione
architettura e nel ciclo a supporto delle decisioni strategiche (Life Cycle Assessment, Life
di vita dei prodotti Cycle Cost Analysis, Social Life Cycle Assessment); nello sviluppo
edilizi (SPACE) di indagini sul campo e di sperimentazioni di diverse tematiche
connesse alla gestione e manutenzione dei patrimoni immobiliari;
nella ricerca sperimentale nell’ambito dei componenti, dei prodotti
e dei materiali. Oltre alle attività di ricerca e consulenza (europea,
ministeriale, per aziende e associazioni di categoria), l’UdR ha
promosso l’attivazione del Cluster interdipartimentale Tessili
innovativi, collabora in network europei (TensiNet) e nazionali (Rete
italiana LCA) e partecipa a gruppi di normazione internazionali
nell’ambito della sostenibilità ambientale (ISO TC 59, CEN TC 350,
GPP), della gestione integrata dei servizi per i patrimoni immobiliari
(CEN TC 319) e della progettazione costruzione di strutture tessili
(CEN TC 250).
Antonio Passaro
Ricerche sul retrofit Fra le recenti ricerche condotte dall’Unità di Ricerca “Tecnologia
tecnologico e e Ambiente” del Dipartimento di Progettazione Urbana
sull’innovazione del e di Urbanistica, quelle caratterizzate da indirizzi propri
costruire della progettazione tecnologica hanno riguardato gli ambiti
dell’innovazione tecnologica, della riqualificazione edilizia e urbana,
del controllo degli impatti degli interventi e della loro correlazione
con l’uso razionale delle risorse. Specifiche declinazioni sono state
sviluppate nel campo del retrofit tecnologico degli edifici, della
riqualificazione degli spazi pubblici e della sperimentazione di
sistemi costruttivi innovativi.
Le tematiche sul retrofit tecnologico sono state affrontate in una
ricerca sulle buone pratiche per il retrofit degli edifici, finalizzata
a favorire lo sviluppo dei contesti locali della Regione Campania
attraverso la proposta di strumenti operativi che abbiano la
possibilità di sostenere, in termini innovativi, gli indotti legati al
mondo della produzione edilizia5, con la finalità di orientare gli attori
del processo edilizio alla gestione di interventi di qualità attraverso
l’acquisizione di competenze innovative per uno sviluppo sostenibile
alla scala locale. La centralità del progetto di retrofit dell’esistente
è individuata quale azione strategica in cui l’innalzamento del
“tasso tecnologico” degli edifici è finalizzato all’offerta di migliori
prestazioni in aderenza alla sostenibilità sociale, economica e
ambientale, recependo i principi di innovazione tecnologica
coniugati con l’energy technology e le green tech.
Nel campo della Riqualificazione degli spazi pubblici si colloca la
ricerca sulla Valorizzazione dei parchi urbani di Napoli, condotta
nell’ambito di un Programma per l’occupazione giovanile promosso
dal Ministero dell’Ambiente e della Tutela del Territorio6. Oltre al
coordinamento di una fase di formazione dei profili tecnici di
giovani laureati, è stata condotta una fase di sperimentazione per la
“Progettazione e gestione dei parchi urbani” con lo sviluppo di banche
dati, sito web, azioni di monitoraggio e reporting, progettazione di
soluzioni eco-energetiche per la riqualificazione dei parchi, attuata
con interventi per il risparmio e la valorizzazione della risorsa
acqua, nonché di “solarizzazione” e di microgenerazione eolica. Con
Valeria D’Ambrosio
NOTE
1
Ricerca in convenzione con il Consorzio Glossa e con la Regione Campania.
2
Ricerca in convenzione con il Comune di Giugliano (NA).
3
In convenzione con Novartis Farma e INAIL
4
In collaborazione con il Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Materiali e della Pro-
duzione (Università Federico II)
5
Università di Napoli Federico II, Polo delle Scienze e delle Tecnologie, Pro-
gramma FARO (Finanziamento per l’Avvio di Ricerche Originali) Progetto di
ricerca, anno 2009, Innovazione e sostenibilità negli interventi di riqualificazione
edilizia. Best practice per il retrofit e la manutenzione.
6
Il finanziamento è stato erogato su proposta del Comune di Napoli nel 2010 e ha
visto come soggetto attuatore l’ANEA, Agenzia Napoletana Energia e Ambiente.
M. Isabella Amirante
Francesca Muzzillo
Reti off-grid per Partendo dall’assunto che il territorio deve essere concepito come
l’ecosistema urbano un “ecosistema urbano”, cioè un organismo dotato di equilibrio
dinamico conseguito attraverso il controllo tecnologico di funzioni
complesse, è importante orientare i processi di riqualificazione come
interventi di controllo di tali funzioni.
Alla luce di queste considerazioni, nell’ambito dell’attività di ricerca
del Sottogruppo 1, il lavoro ha riguardato il delicato rapporto tra
gli interventi in chiave ambientale e l’infrastrutturazione dell’area.
La relazione tra gli interventi di riqualificazione e la definizione del
sistema delle reti di servizio costituisce uno stimolante argomento
di approfondimento nell’ottica di un approccio integrato alle
problematiche della trasformazione e del riuso di un’area. Uno
spazio aperto, qualunque sia la sua destinazione d’uso, deve essere
debitamente attrezzato affinché sia assicurata la dotazione dei servizi
indispensabili quali quelli igienici, quelli energetici, oltre a quelli
Rossella Franchino
Antonella Violano
NOTE
1
Gruppo di Ricerca: Francesca Muzzillo (Responsabile scientifico S-1 Progettazione
Ambientale) e Rossella Franchino (Responsabile scientifico S-1 per le Reti Ambien-
tali), Caterina Frettoloso e Fosca Tortorelli.
2
Gruppo di Ricerca: Antonella Violano (Responsabile scientifico S-2), Bruna Rubi-
chi, Gianluca De Vita, Danila Renis, Alberto Affinito, Giuseppina Puzella, Nicoletta
Sammarco.
Alberto Sposito
NOTE
1
Cfr. il Libro Bianco sulla Governance, COM 2001, 428, def. 2. Nell’accezione data
dalla CE, la governance è insieme di norme, processi e comportamenti, che influisco-
no sul modo in cui le competenze sono esercitate per gestire complesse dinamiche di
trasformazione, con particolare riferimento ai principi di apertura, partecipazione,
responsabilità, efficacia e coerenza.
2
Il Convegno ha offerto l’opportunità di una comune riflessione e la base per pro-
porre concreti miglioramenti nell’immediato futuro e per rafforzare la competitività
dell’area, secondo il principio della sostenibilità ambientale. Cfr. AA. VV., Permanen-
ze e Innovazioni nell’Architettura del Mediterraneo (cur. M. L. Germanà), Univesity
Press, Firenze 2011, pp. 27-45, 403-434.
3
G. De Giovanni, E. W. Angelico, Architecture and Innovation for Heritage, Aracne,
Roma 2011.
NOTE
1
Gli strutturati ICAR 12 sono: A. Nesi (P.O.), M.T. Lucarelli(P.O.), F. Bagnato( P.A.),
A. De Capua(P.A.), G. Foti (P.A.), R. Laganà (P.A.) M. Lauria(P.A.) A. Paolella (P.A.),
F. Suraci (P.A.) C.Trombetta (P.A.), F. Giglio (R ), M. Milardi (R) ,C. Nava (R), F.
Pastura(R).
2
Rif.: De Capua, A., Mannino, M. e Rocca E. (Ed) (2008), “Arte Scienza e Tecnica del
Costruire, Gangemi Editore.
3
Le U.O. hanno assunto acronimi che contengono al loro interno riferimenti agli in-
teressi specifici di ricerca:
APSIA – Analisi e Progetto per la sostenibilità e l’Igiene Ambientale, Coordinatore: Prof.
M. T .Lucarelli;
STOA – Scienze e Tecnologie per l’Operatività in Architettura, Coordinatore: Prof. A.
Nesi;
TeAm-S-Tecnologie per l’Ambiente e la Sicurezza, Coordinatore: Prof. R. Laganà;
TEMENOS – Tecnologie Metodologie Normative Sensibili, Coordinatore: Prof. R. Giu-
frè;
TRESA – Tecnologie del Recupero Ecologico e Sociale dell’Abitare, Coordinatore: A.
Paolella.
4
Rif.: www.unirc.it/ricerca/laboratori.php?lab=20.
5
Rif. Annuario della Ricerca –Ateneo di Reggio Calabria.
6
Tali questioni sono state elaborate in un documento collegiale del Febbraio 2010
dal titolo “Il Dottorato che verrà…”. Rif. DASTEC Facoltà di Architettura di Reggio
Calabria.
NOTE
1
Sui “Driver” dell’innovazione individuati per il settore delle costruzioni un impor-
tante contributo è stato fornito da CRESME Ricerche S.p.a. ANNUARIO 2010.
Tiziana Ferrante
NOTE
1
In questi Paesi il tema dell’housing sociale si lega all’adozione di tecnologie a basso
costo, a basso impatto ambientale, di rapida e semplice realizzabilità, che si prestano
a essere flessibili e durevoli nel tempo e che privilegiano l’uso di prodotti derivati
dal legno.
2
Come ad esempio le ricerche sviluppate in sinergia tra importanti Istituzioni (Uni-
versità, CNR-IVALSA, Regioni, ecc.) e Aziende specializzate del settore soprattutto
nel campo delle tecnologie per la realizzazione di strutture in zone sismiche multi-
piano e resistenti al fuoco (cfr. Progetto SOFIE, Sistema cOstruttivo casa FIEmme;
intervento promosso da Case Spa di edilizia economica popolare a Firenze realizzato
con sistema Cross-Lam), rivolte prevalentemente al comparto residenziale rispetto
al quale le tecnologie innovative in legno riescono a fornire prestazioni altamen-
te competitive sotto il profilo della sostenibilità e della qualità architettonica a costi
contenuti.
Alberto Raimondi
Chiara Tonelli
L’accessibilità, Il processo di sviluppo sociale iniziato nella seconda metà del secolo
strumento per scorso intorno alle questioni inerenti alla qualità del vivere quotidiano
il progetto di e che ha posto al centro dell’attenzione le esigenze delle persone ha
architettura. comportato una lenta presa di coscienza dei diritti di uguaglianza
Alcune esperienze di tutti, persone abili e non abili, soggette alla naturale evoluzione
didattiche e di fisiologica, individui singoli che vivono contesti e relazioni diverse;
ricerca nell’ultimo decennio si è delineato l’obiettivo comune, non solo
etico, di operare per permettere la massima autonomia possibile al
maggior numero di persone compatibilmente con i diversi gradi di
abilità e disabilità ed in relazione ai naturali mutamenti evolutivi.
Un obiettivo perseguito, e non ancora raggiunto, attraverso l’attività
degli istituti pubblici e delle associazioni che rappresentano le diverse
categorie, dei servizi sanitari e sociali, degli enti di formazione, e
ultima, ma non meno importante, la coscienza comune.
Questo percorso di sviluppo ha modificato anche il quadro di
riferimento d’uso dell’innovazione tecnologica con conseguente
messa a punto di nuovi materiali, prodotti e soluzioni tecniche per
il superamento delle barriere architettoniche fisiche e sensoriali.
Contemporaneamente è stato strutturato l’apparato manualistico
inerente all’antropometria e all’ergonomia e il corpo normativo
che, seppur non sempre esaustivo e spesso incongruente, offre
nell’insieme i riferimenti funzionali sufficienti per la realizzazione
delle opere.
In questo contesto, apparentemente evoluto, continuiamo però a
vivere e lavorare in ambienti pieni di ostacoli fisici e percettivi, e
ad usarli solo limitatamente rispetto alle potenzialità degli stessi;
ciò accade perché la cultura dell’inclusione non è ancora riuscita
a modificare sostanzialmente i processi di programmazione, di
progettazione e di gestione. Ad esempio nel processo di progettazione
edilizia l’accessibilità è ancora intesa come una problema di
applicazione dei minimi imposti dalla normativa obbligatoria
e non sempre viene considerata come un’occasione diversa e
completa di pensare le forme degli spazi per tutti gli utenti. Nel
caso specifico della progettazione architettonica sarebbe sufficiente
che gli assunti dell’accessibilità fossero presi in considerazione dai
progettisti come requisiti base del progetto e non come parametri
per una verifica a posteriori; è prassi infatti che l’accessibilità delle
opere venga verificata dal progettista in fase avanzata adottando le
indicazioni come vincoli e non come elementi della composizione.
Questo atteggiamento porta a risolvere il superamento delle
barriere architettoniche con attenzione solo a particolari categorie
di disabilità ed adottando una sequenza di dispositivi tecnologici,
riconoscibili e a volte tra loro incongruenti, che alterano la qualità
formale complessiva dell’intervento.
Considerando le esigenze degli utenti fondamentali per
l’individuazione dei requisiti di progetto, è possibile trasformare
l’accessibilità da elemento limitante a nuovo strumento per il
progetto di architettura se c’è la volontà di ragionare criticamente a
priori sui bisogni in relazione alla destinazione d’uso dell’ambiente di
progetto con il supporto delle informazioni disponibili, liberandosi
dai vincoli normativi; ciò significa che, una volta che sono stati
Christina Conti
Innovazione Negli anni, molti docenti dell’area tecnologica si sono occupati del
tecnologica e rapporto tra il mondo della tecnologia e quello dell’architettura,
architettura con particolare attenzione al ruolo svolto dall’innovazione. Tra
questi, Gianni Ferracuti, Nicola Sinopoli, Vittorio Manfron, Franco
Laner, Aldo Norsa, Gianna Riva, Patrizia Paganuzzi, Emma Dal
Zio, Umberto Barbisan, Valeria Tatano, Gianfranco Roccatagliata,
Giovanni Mucelli, Giovanni Zannoni e Pietro Zennaro. In tale
ambito è stato istituito nel 1997 ArTec, Archivio delle Tecniche e dei
Materiali per l’Architettura e il Disegno Industriale, che si occupa
di monitorare il settore della produzione edilizia e che collabora
con aziende del settore in iniziative culturali o di ricerca applicata.
Dal 2004 a oggi il gruppo di ArTec, diretto da Valeria Tatano, opera
con il SAIE, Salone Internazionale dell’Industrializzazione Edilizia,
all’organizzazione e redazione del Servizio Novità, selezione delle
novità presentate ogni anno nel corso della manifestazione e raccolte
in un catalogo multimediale corredato da un saggio che delinea lo
stato dell’arte dell’innovazione tecnologica in edilizia.
Sul tema dell’innovazione tecnologica la sede di Venezia sta anche
svolgendo attività di ricerca, condotta da Aldo Norsa e Dario
Trabucco, sul tema degli edifici alti; attività confluita nel Workshop
internazionale The Tall Stones of Venice e nella conferenza Le
problematiche tecnologiche del costruire in altezza, tenutisi entrambi
a Venezia. Aldo Norsa ha anche condotto attività di ricerca sul Social
Housing in collaborazione con Andrea Sardena.
Sempre nell’ambito delle tematiche attinenti all’innovazione
tecnologica, la sede di Venezia ha condotto la ricerca Il vetro come
elemento dell’involucro architettonico, nell’ambito della ricerca
nazionale Prin 2005 dal titolo Percorsi e gestione delle informazioni
tecniche per la promozione e il controllo dell’innovazione nei materiali
e nel progetto d’architettura. La ricerca, condotta nel biennio 2006-
2007, ha indagato le nuove tecnologie del vetro a partire dallo stato
dell’arte in fatto di produzione di materiali vetrosi. L’Unità di ricerca
era composta dai responsabili Nicola Sinopoli e Valeria Tatano e
da Christina Conti, Massimo Rossetti, Antonio Musacchio, Anna
Faresin ed Elisabetta Carattin. I risultati della ricerca nazionale sono
stati pubblicati all’indirizzo www.unirc.info e nel volume a cura di
Attilio Nesi Progettare con l’informazione; i risultati dell’Unità di
Venezia, inoltre, sono stati pubblicati nel volume a cura di Valeria
Tatano, Oltre la trasparenza.
Sicurezza Sui temi della sicurezza (in uso, al fuoco e sul lavoro) e dell’accessibilità
la sede di Venezia ha attivato negli anni diverse iniziative tra cui un
Corso di dottorato di ricerca finanziato da INAIL e coordinato da
Valeria Tatano, corsi monografici e workshop. Tali interessi stanno
dando vita a iniziative rivolte alla formazione e alla ricerca proposte
da un gruppo di docenti di varie università ed enti italiani che hanno
organizzato incontri e seminari per sviluppare una linea operativa
comune.
Massimo Rossetti