Mr Tom Coward

Research project: Towards a conversational architecture

Abstract

In today's contingent environment of commissioning buildings the architect's role is becoming recognised as negotiator, an enabled collaborator, rather than as an isolated author. The PhD explores the reciprocal role of participation and conversation within both the lived production and experiential realization of the architectural object.

Conversational methodologies are studied as a means by which an architecture can accrete value and meaning, thereby contributing to society and the discipline. The thesis explores this active role of the architect in space production and uses performances of architecture as research. The research focuses on the conversation manifest in the making and experiencing of architecture.

The contribution to knowledge is sited in the framing, contextualising and analysis of conversational practice. It posits the value of a 'performative turn' within architecture as a maker of a 'conversational' en-active architectural space; and its ability to reprioritize the value of the profession within the collective imagination.