Research → Work, work, work
This is a body of research made up of a series of studies informed by historical and contemporary inquiry into the sociology of work.
This project is concerned with the architectural axiom, form follows function; an axiom that suggests that there is interdependence between architecture and program. The project consists of research made up of a series of studies informed by historical and contemporary inquiry into the sociology of work, setting up a critical framework to challenge why architects seem disinterested in engaging with the nuance of the office building and office work.
This thesis project was completed individually over the course of one semester at RMIT University, under the supervision of Dr Peter Brew.
Awards:
Australian Institute of Architects | Victorian Graduate Prize Finalist | 2020
RMIT University | Anne Butler Medal | Highest Scored Graduate Project & Thesis | 2019
RMIT University | Leon van Schaik 25th Anniversary | Peer Assessed Award | 2019
The thesis project was presented as a singular composite drawing, addressing relationships between ideas, architecture and scale.
Studies into current attitudes to work, show we place far higher value on productivity rather than that of humanity. This is problematic in a time where advances in automation and dehumanization of the workforce further increase productive capability. This is only becoming more pertinent to explore as we navigate a post-COVID 19 landscape impact on work, which is forcing us all to begin to re-evaluate not only our working environment, but our values surrounding work.
The project embraces and materializes a traditional scientific approach, proving that architecture can be caused by work at many different scales. The conclusion it draws is that contemporary architecture practice is resisting to engage with the present and specific needs of the type, rather viewing it only as a commodity. In this sense one of the roles my project plays within the broader context of architecture is that it is a polemic against the office building type as it is currently understood, which seems to be a store of capital, and as a totem but not as a place of human occupation. If, like this project, architects can begin to look at work through the lens of humanity, we can allow the office type to formally develop to the specific needs of work and the worker. We can begin to address work as a human issue rather than a productivity one.