unofficial blog for course ARCH210

Lehigh University
Art Architecture and Design
113 Research Drive
Building C
Bethlehem, PA 18015

Michael, Uncategorized

Collage City

In the Collage City, Rose and Koetter emphasize how modern architecture is initially approached or at least thought of as a marriage between continuing scientific development and social consideration. However, in reality, conflict is produced between these two approaches when city plans are drafted. The architect is torn between their scientific and social responsibility when planning. On one hand, too much emphasis on science can produce a plan that is both unrealistic and unfeasible, while also reducing the architects ability to creatively problem solve. “…we simultaneously allow these hard empirical facts to dictate the solution” (Rowe and Koetter 3). However, focusing too much on social responsibility prevents new advancements in city planning from being realized. It is the balance between these two approaches that would produce the most effective solutions, although it has historically very difficult to achieve this. It was also recognized that modern architecture is revered as a solution in itself, rather than a constantly developing approach to issues within modern cities. If a balance can be achieved, then it is possible that a more realistic approach to city building can be realized.

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