REVIEW. Encoding Digital & Analogue Taxonavigation
by Liat Margolis
Its opening paragraph decorated with seductive images of exciting, new materials, Liat Margolis' extract, Encoding Digital & Analogue Taxonavigation, fascinates us about an era where materials used in architectural applications are explored, questioned and pushed passed their limits, conceiving an architecture that is ambiguous but exciting.
Arguing against the traditional system of classifying materials, Construction Specification Institute (CSI), Margolis highlights the limitations posed by organising materials according to pre-conceived use. Conveying regret and disappointment, she describes the stagnation and missed opportunity brought about by the 'hierarchical and linear information structure' that inhibits 'unexpected solutions,' as it focuses on tested and accepted practices.
Contrastingly, Margolis evokes progression and energy when referring to the current system of classifying materials i.e. according to composition. Material libraries such as Material ConneXion Inc. are constantly evolving and morphing, allowing for innovation and creativity through the exploration of applying materials to otherwise unconventional uses, paving the way for the development of new materials. While this type of application process gives rise to difficulties in identifying the characteristics of new materials and relating them to traditional materials, Margolis encourages us to embrace this ambiguity, as it is the key to innovation. An overall picture of harmony is painted as disciplines including, but not limited to, architecture, fashion, biology and engineering are linked and cross-over in a creative, advancing environment.
REFERENCES. Margolis, L 2010, 'Encoding digital & analogue taxonavigation', in T Schropfer Material design: informing architecture by materiality, Birkhauser Architecture, pp. 148-163.
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