Eye Filmmuseum and TU Delft Library

Abstract

This thesis aims to critically examine the design process of two cultural centres-landmarks, built in the Netherlands in the past decades. The examined projects include the EYE Filmmuseum (DMAA-2011) and the TU Delft Library (Mecanoo-1998). Despite the differences between the two buildings, they share similar starting points regarding the sites they are located in. The plots alone comprised a challenge for the architects who had to deal with the strong presence of natural elements, such as water and soil, as well as their adaptation to the historic built environment that they belong to.In order to indulge in projects’ architectural characteristics, it entails the understanding of the reasons that led to a specific design - the main factors that shaped the compositions. Therefore, this thesis questions how their syntheses were developed, what were the starting points of each design, as well as the differences between each architectural approach. It is significant to understand the main references of each project, as well as the ultimate aspiration of each building, meaning what the architects wanted to achieve apart from a functional building. Comprehending the theoretical framework of the architects, is an imperative step for answering the question of what can be learned from the design process in architecture.The research topic requires the adoption of a mixed-methods approach. The sources used, consist of archival material, preliminary sketches, literature, and material of the design phase provided by the projects’ architects upon request. Aiming to gain a better understanding of the physical buildings on a personal level, site visits are a mandatory prerequisite too. Besides, municipal documents give valuable insights into the development of these projects, in the context of their greater setting. Finally, conducting interviews with the principal architects of the projects, will give a new perspective on the design process of the projects. Moreover, the studied literature will be translated and visualized through personal illustrations, allowing for the development of a personal proposal of the5design process of the projects. Overall, the thesis uses and reflects on the most relevant sources of the subject, leading to a clear understanding of the design process and finally showcasing its impact on the architectural comprehension of a realized project.