Techniques in Ambiguity

The thesis investigates how ambiguity - created through a smooth, continuous building envelope- can be used to alter the perception and understanding of discrete typological or primitive forms with a focus on material expression. The use of basic, primitive forms is tied to a contemporary discourse of discreteness. Contemporary practitioners are exhausted with the seductive, smooth, continuous envelopes from the 90s digital project. As a result, they have turned to generating form through loosely associated, blocky parts. However, the thesis proves - through a vast series of investigations - that there is still room to explore smooth envelopes and gradients from the 90s project - as it relates to the creation of ambiguity - with the discrete, primitive forms of contemporary discourse in order to propose an alternative way of generating form through loosely associated, blocky parts. Furthermore, by deploying basic, primitive forms, the task of analysis and interpretation is open to a larger audience. The ambiguous techniques that the thesis explores serve to challenge the typical viewer's perception of the familiar, primitive forms. By challenging their perceptions, the thesis asks for their participation and reinterpretation of the basic volumes. As a result of this participation from multiple audiences, the discipline of architecture becomes open to more people and ideas.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Architecture

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Architecture

Department dc:contributor.department

Architecture

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2023

Author dc:creator

• Hutchison, Ally Marie

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Bedford, Joseph

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Shugars, Miranda
• Vorster, Clive R.

• perception
• ambiguity
• envelope
• primitive forms

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:37442

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/115899