A rationalist approach towards architectural design would suggest considering the program of the building to achieve a functional solution that would satisfy the client’s needs. Once the building fulfils its function, the building becomes free to take any form or shape that satisfies the architect’s ambition. However, this approach would, in many cases, result in generic buildings that could be copied everywhere. Plus, architectural design is never a straight forward process.
sketch of the plywood house in Bottmingen
In the plywood house by Herzog & de Meuron in Bottmingen, the architects decide to engage the building with an existing Poulownia tree on site. The building is pushed against the tree and the side facing the tree is curved inwards. Hence, the building starts to prevail a guilty pleasure. A predetermined relationship is established with the context. The tree became the focuse of the design. This kind of "as found" architecture, has a passionately subressive aspect.. something binding.. a small affair.. (Architecture is not made with the brain, As found is a small affair; Schregenberger)
if music be the food of love, play on.. give me excess of it; that surfeiting.. the appetite may sicken, and so die.. - Orsino from Twelfth night; William Shakespear