The Tangible Presence of Human Labor in Architecture

Conference Paper (2021)
Author(s)

Eric Ferreira Crevels (TU Delft - Situated Architecture)

Research Group
Situated Architecture
Copyright
© 2021 Eric Crevels
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.48537/hal-03220348
More Info
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Publication Year
2021
Language
English
Copyright
© 2021 Eric Crevels
Research Group
Situated Architecture
Pages (from-to)
184-189
Reuse Rights

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Abstract

This essay aims to show that in many of the theories that fundament material culture and architectural experience, labor is implied in the constitution of material and, although seldom directly addressed, it is a determining dimension of materiality. From the Vitruvian and Renaissance treatises and Gottfried Semper to John Ruskin and the Art and Crafts Movement, the underlying presence of labor can be seen intertwined with materials whenever they are called into architectural discussion as sensorial arguments. Just like the physical qualities of materials, labor, skills and techniques are imprinted in the built environment and contribute to the creation of particular atmospheres.