03 Adam Caruso/ Caruso St John Architects REFLECTIONS ON ARCHITECTURE 2025

Name: 03 Adam Caruso/ Caruso St John Architects REFLECTIONS ON ARCHITECTURE 2025
Uploaded: 2025-11-05T13:33:23.000Z
Duration: 4 h 6 min 5 s

Introduction to the Lecture

Welcome and Context

The speaker welcomes attendees to the third lecture of the 10th year of the "Refractions on Architecture" series, focusing on the architecture scene in the United Kingdom.

Introduction of guest architect Adam Kuso, who co-founded his studio with Peterson Jones in 1990, known for both small designs and large public renovations.

Adam Kuso's Background and Work

Architectural Contributions

Mention of a recent publication featuring Adam Kuso's work in a special issue on Japanese architecture by A+ magazine, highlighting his significance in contemporary architecture.

Kuso’s firm is based in London and has projects across Europe including Belgium, Netherlands, UK, Germany, Switzerland, and Slovakia.

Kuso's Experience and Lecture Focus

Personal Connection

The speaker expresses gratitude for Kuso’s presence after previously attending virtually during COVID-19.

Kuso shares his positive impressions of Bratislava after visiting notable buildings and museums.

Thematic Exploration: What Is It Worth?

Architectural Reflection

Kuso introduces his lecture titled "What is it worth?" aiming to articulate architects' roles by 2025 amidst historical context.

He reflects on past architectural practices that contributed to societal issues while acknowledging some productive outcomes.

Historical Context: Human Existence and Political Theory

Evolution of Thought

Discussion begins with Homo sapiens’ existence over 200,000 years; referencing prehistoric caves as an example of early human creativity.

Introduction of Thomas Hobbes' "Leviathan" (1651), which describes life without political structure as chaotic and brutish.

Contrasting Philosophies: Hobbes vs. Rousseau

Divergent Views on Society

Hobbes posits that society requires political structures to avoid chaos; contrastingly, Rousseau argues that early humans were egalitarian until corrupted by politics.

Modern Implications: Revisiting Historical Theories

Influence on Contemporary Society

Both Hobbes' and Rousseau's theories are presented as influential yet speculative ideas shaping modern societal organization.

New Perspectives from Recent Literature

Insights from "The Dawn of Everything"

Anarchism and Agency in Society

Historical Context and Contemporary Relevance

The speaker discusses a book by an anarchist author who passed away shortly after its completion, highlighting its historical, anthropological, and archaeological insights.

The book presents positive perspectives on current societal conditions, emphasizing that individuals have the agency to shape their societies rather than being bound by neoliberal capitalism or communism.

It illustrates how societies transitioned between hunter-gatherer and agrarian lifestyles over thousands of years, showcasing human choice against hierarchical structures.

Architecture's Role in Environmental Awareness

Architects must recognize their significant role in resource consumption and shift focus from new constructions to valuing existing structures.

The act of describing existing architecture is deemed crucial for contemporary practice, suggesting it does not signify the end of architecture but rather a transformation towards adaptation.

Historical Examples of Architectural Adaptation

Reference to Michelangelo’s work primarily involving renovations highlights the importance of adapting existing buildings throughout history.

Brunelleschi's addition to Santa Croce exemplifies engaging with classical architectural language while respecting existing structures during the Renaissance.

Local Practices in Building Adaptation

Farmers' intuitive building practices demonstrate deep knowledge of materials without formal drawings or architects, showcasing practical innovation.

An example is given where a farmer creatively uses available resources (a tarp and stones) for wood protection, illustrating purposeful design.

Celebrating Everyday Architecture

Photographs by artists Fishley and Vice celebrate Zurich's suburbs as rich living environments despite their perceived architectural dullness.

These examples emphasize the potential for meaningful architecture derived from everyday settings rather than solely from grand designs.

Challenges in Contemporary Architecture

Control vs. Uncertainty in Architectural Practice

Architects are traditionally trained to solve problems with control; however, this tendency can be unrealistic due to external factors influencing projects.

Exploring Architectural Ideals and Control

The Disconnect Between Market Perception and Social Responsibility

Architects often face challenges in addressing the asset value of projects, which can detract from socially and materially responsible design.

Embracing Uncertainty in Architecture

John Cage's composition "4 minutes and 33 seconds" exemplifies how art can thrive without strict control, suggesting architects could adopt a similar mindset to foster creativity.

The Role of Environment in Performance

Cage’s piece incorporates environmental sounds (like coughing or traffic), emphasizing that the performance context is integral to the experience of music.

Non-Western Music as a Model for Architectural Flexibility

In non-Western traditions, such as Indian ragas, performances are lengthy and interactive, allowing for audience engagement without rigid expectations.

Cyclical Structures in Architecture

If architects accept losing some control over their designs, they can create more adaptable structures that respond to real-time complexities during project development.

Historical Context: Louis Sullivan's Influence

Analyzing the Carson Perry Scott Building

Louis Sullivan's department store design features an efficient steel grid plan that allows for diverse interpretations while maintaining a strong facade presence.

Generic Abstraction vs. Monumental Architecture

The building’s abstract plan contrasts with traditional monumental architecture, showcasing how functional spaces can still contribute positively to urban environments.

Contemporary Project Case Study: Leil Steel Factory Conversion

Transforming Industrial Space into Civic Utility

A recent project involved converting a large steel factory into a civic space focused on gastronomy education, highlighting minimal structural changes to retain historical elements.

Retaining Historical Integrity While Innovating

Engaging with the Qualities of Place

Project Concept and Design Philosophy

The design process focused on engaging with the unique qualities of the site, particularly the juxtaposition of empty and full sheds, which informed the project's logic.

Retaining the image of the factory in their project was a key factor in winning a competition, appealing to local politicians and community sentiments tied to its working-class heritage.

The area, known as Leil, is historically significant for its working-class population who supported socialist politics; this connection influenced design decisions.

Symbolism and Practical Strategy

The project embodies both practical strategies and symbolic content; precise connections to existing structures can lead to broader implications in design.

The building serves 1,800 students aged 16 to early 20s, featuring diverse facilities including kitchens and restaurants that reflect a complex program akin to a student project.

Architectural Integration with Surroundings

Building Relationships

New buildings were designed to resonate with surrounding houses while also reflecting internal shed structures, creating harmony within the site’s context.

Public and semi-public spaces are defined by programmatic volumes; these areas facilitate interaction between different user groups such as students and professors.

Structural Adaptations

A main entry passage connects various functions within the site while maintaining an industrial aesthetic reminiscent of factory yards.

Existing colors from previous structures were meticulously documented using color scanning technology before repainting steelwork, preserving historical integrity while modernizing elements.

The Evolution of Office Architecture

Modern Office Building Design

A new office building in Zurich West reflects contemporary architectural trends while respecting its industrial surroundings; it aims for functionality without excess ornamentation.

The design emphasizes structural purity alongside efficient office space utilization next to a prominent viaduct that shapes its visual context.

Green Initiatives in Urban Planning

Balconies feature year-round greenery as part of Zurich's initiative for increased urban planting; this enhances environmental sustainability within urban architecture.

Artistic Influence on Architectural Thought

Historical Contextualization

Art and Society: The Intersection of Modernism and Contemporary Practice

Manet's Engagement with Social Conditions

Manet is recognized as an incredibly engaged modern artist, whose work deeply reflects the social and temporal conditions of his time.

He challenges the convention of perspective in art, illustrating it as a cultural invention rather than an absolute truth, which destabilizes traditional representations.

The painting depicts a picnic scene that juxtaposes nakedness and clothing, symbolizing class awareness in Paris during Haussmann's renovations.

Themes of social inequality and capitalism are embodied in Manet's work, contributing to its rejection by the Salon due to its challenge to established values.

Despite using historical painting conventions, Manet’s approach remains vital and modern without fully embracing modernism.

Mike Kelly: Blending High Culture with Popular Themes

Mike Kelly’s 2005 work "The Day is Done" merges themes from both high culture and popular culture, reflecting contemporary life through his working-class origins.

His artistic strategy effectively engages with societal issues outside the art world while combining elements learned in art school with everyday objects.

Early critiques of his stuffed toy sculptures misinterpreted them as references to child abuse; however, he later embraced these interpretations for their powerful communication potential.

Kelly’s subsequent works began addressing suppressed memory syndrome, showcasing how audience reception influenced his creative process.

A feedback loop exists between Kelly's production and audience response, enhancing the communicative power of his artwork.

Architecture: Navigating Real World Complexities

Contemporary artists can remain distanced from real-world complexities due to insulation provided by galleries; architects do not share this luxury as their work directly impacts society.

Since modernism, architecture has often sought simplicity to address complex social issues but may overlook deeper realities inherent in urban environments.

There is a call for architects to acknowledge these complexities within their designs to unlock new possibilities similar to those found by artists like Manet and Kelly.

Case Study: Royal Belge Project

The Royal Belge project involved renovating a corporate headquarters built in the 1970s for AXA insurance; initially intended for demolition but became a monument after acquisition.

Project Transformation of a Corporate Headquarters

Overview of the Project

The project involved transforming a corporate headquarters while maintaining its original structure and aesthetic, utilizing skilled architects and contractors.

Despite initial doubts about the developer's capabilities, the project turned out to be a significant economic and social success, attracting consistent foot traffic.

Architectural Challenges and Solutions

The building faced technical issues with its facade, necessitating changes to glass and gaskets without challenging the existing design.

The transformation aimed to convert a single-tenant space for 1,200 employees into a multi-use facility featuring leisure areas, co-working spaces, dining options, and a boutique hotel.

Design Innovations

A new central cut through the building was introduced to enhance connectivity between various facilities while preserving the historical elements like cast bronze walls.

Many modifications were made discreetly so that visitors would not realize they were not part of the original design.

Material Reuse and Sustainability

New ground floor features included glazing and staircases designed to blend seamlessly with existing structures; some materials were repurposed from other locations for sustainability.

The use of high-quality marble from elsewhere in the building emphasized both aesthetic appeal and sustainability in material usage.

Structural Adjustments

New columns were added that mimicked old designs but utilized concrete instead of steel; this was crucial for structural integrity while enhancing public accessibility.

The integration of new lighting systems through existing architectural features contributed to modernizing the space without compromising its historical essence.

Exhibition Project at ETH

Introduction to Exhibition Concept

A small exhibition titled "Omar Mara Ola" was organized in collaboration with curators at ETH Zurich, showcasing works by Roma artist Mara Ola who typically installed her art in urban settings.

Space Utilization Challenges

Exhibition Design and Its Multifaceted Uses

Negotiating Space for Art Exhibitions

The project involved negotiations with colleagues to create an exhibition that coexisted with the existing uses of the space, emphasizing flexibility in design.

The discussion raised questions about whether exhibitions must be confined to galleries, highlighting a successful negotiation process that allowed for diverse uses within a short timeframe.

Transformative Nature of Exhibition Spaces

The exhibition elements were designed as extensions of the room's architecture, enhancing its beauty while accommodating various activities like conferences and lectures.

As night fell, the space transformed into a performance area featuring local artists and catering from an Ethiopian restaurant, showcasing its versatility.

Architectural Questions Raised by Projects

A new project called "Triple Folly" was introduced, created for Danish textile company Kuwadrat in collaboration with artist Thomas Demand, questioning traditional architectural boundaries.

Demand's initial sketches led to three volumes inspired by paper items (legal paper, paper plates, hats), prompting discussions on how art can influence architectural design.

Material Choices and Sustainability Concerns

Although constructed from fiberglass—less sustainable than other materials—the pavilion was built by experts familiar with fiberglass technology used in wind turbines.

The final structure featured translucent elements mimicking paper designs while maintaining durability; this raised further questions about materiality in art versus architecture.

Gleaning: Cultural Practices and Contemporary Relevance

Exploring Gleaning Through Film

Gleaning is introduced through a painting reference and Varda’s film "The Gleaners and I," which explores various forms of gleaning in modern French society.

Societal Impacts of Gleaning Practices

The film depicts families who gather leftover crops post-harvest—highlighting their resilience amidst societal challenges—and connects these practices to historical depictions of labor.

Gleaning and Architecture: A New Paradigm

The Concept of Gleaning

Gleaning involves collecting food that is discarded, such as items past their sell-by date, highlighting an ethical choice in the context of late capitalism.

The film illustrates various examples of gleaning, emphasizing the abundance of materials available within our current economic system.

Implications for Architecture

Gleaning suggests that much architectural capacity can be fulfilled using existing structures and materials rather than new resources.

Architects must develop ingenuity and material knowledge to reconnect architecture with its social and physical contexts, leading to innovative formal inventions.

Program Development in Architecture

Architectural programs should engage with the project’s situation rather than being imposed externally; this reflects a shift in how architecture is conceptualized.

Developing programs requires understanding the specific context where they will be implemented, akin to sampling in music where synthesis emerges through process rather than starting from an abstract concept.

Case Study: Newport Street Museum

The Newport Street project involved converting industrial buildings into a museum for artist Damien Hirst's collection, showcasing adaptive reuse of existing structures.

Existing buildings were retained while new elements were added; decisions on construction materials reflected a modest approach aligned with historical context.

Design Process Insights

The design included continuous ground and first floors to accommodate contemporary art needs while respecting the building's original character.

Gallery Design and Architectural Competition Insights

The Vision for the Gallery

Early project versions featured rough galleries, but Damian Hurst aimed for a commercial gallery aesthetic, balancing finishes while maintaining natural light inconsistencies.

A new gallery was designed with unique shapes and lighting, incorporating spindly wooden trusses from the existing structure despite the extensive work required.

Architectural Challenges and Competitions

The speaker discusses a competition involving an existing building completed in 1985 by Atelier 5, which was proposed to be demolished for dubious reasons.

Out of 38 architects in the first stage of the competition, only their team proposed retaining the existing building, leading to a shortlist of eight finalists.

Critique of Competition Outcomes

Despite winning a prize, the jury's report highlighted why their scheme was deemed impossible; ironically, it had more gallery space than the winner's proposal.

The winning design offered less connectivity between galleries and failed to address accessibility issues present in the original building.

Proposed Solutions and Innovations

Their design included a new entrance at pavement level to improve accessibility while connecting old and new spaces without requiring demolition.

The plan also addressed basement levels that were part of the original structure, emphasizing sustainability by avoiding unnecessary waste.

Future Prospects and Community Engagement

Concerns about demolishing functional spaces in 2023 highlight societal values regarding preservation versus progress.

Philips Electronics Redevelopment Project

Overview of the Project

The project involves redeveloping a historic storage building for Philips Electronics, originally built in the 1940s and recognized as a highly listed monument.

The site has been transformed into an urban quarter, reminiscent of Manhattan's electronics production era, with some buildings preserved and others replaced.

Client and Development Approach

The client is a social developer focused on property development without profit motives, reinvesting all profits back into the community.

Throughout the project's evolution, there were ongoing discussions with various stakeholders including the client and city officials due to changes in programmatic needs.

Building Utilization and Design

The main part of the existing building is currently used for car parking while interim uses like studios occupy other areas; ground floor features a food market.

New additions include affordable housing at 80 meters high and office spaces that blend seamlessly with the original structure's aesthetic.

Architectural Integration

The design aims to create a cohesive look between old and new elements, ensuring no clear distinction exists in organization or appearance.

Multiple entrances enhance accessibility; colors used are inspired by historical Dutch palettes from the 1930s.

Interior Design Philosophy

Importance of Interiors

Interiors play a crucial role in architecture by creating specific atmospheres that can be powerful regardless of whether they are within existing structures or newly built ones.

Historical Context in Interior Design

Reference to Queen Louise’s bedroom showcases how interiors can reflect classical culture through material transformation, blending textiles with plaster elements.

Architectural Significance

Louis Sullivan’s Guarantee Building exemplifies how commercial architecture can convey vitality through intricate facades that contrast rational interior spaces.

The Intersection of Architecture and Capitalism

The Crystal Palace and Its Implications

Negri's book "Empire" discusses the Crystal Palace of 1851, symbolizing capitalism's infinite spaces.

The interior design suggests a provisional and mutable nature, emphasizing diversity in architectural projects.

This concept aligns with broader themes in architecture, focusing on how to achieve diverse conditions within structures.

Case Study: Zurich Project

A project completed in Zurich for a young family involved transforming a 40s warehouse into living and working spaces.

The building retains its original structure while adding new elements; windows were repaired rather than replaced.

The top two floors serve as living space, while the bottom two are designated for work, showcasing adaptability within a small footprint.

Design Elements and Materials

Interior partitions utilize timber storage to create distinct areas without extensive renovations.

A unique color palette was derived from a Japanese color book, influencing furniture and room designs throughout the project.

New timber stairs were added quickly using modern construction techniques, highlighting efficiency in design execution.

Nottingham Contemporary: Textile-Inspired Facade

The facade of the Nottingham Contemporary museum reflects the city's historical lace-making industry through its textile-like quality.

Extensive development went into creating a lace pattern texture for precast concrete facades, utilizing emerging technologies at that time.

Models were created to determine scale and appearance before final production began with local precasters, ensuring community involvement in construction processes.

Bremerlandis Bank: Heritage and Modernity

Completed in 2016, this bank project respects North German brick traditions while replacing an unsatisfactory 1980’s building within a UNESCO site.

Hanover by Pulse: Architectural Insights

Overview of the Building

The Hanover building, designed by Pulse in the 1920s, remains standing but has been vacant for decades. The architectural design features a series of plan cuts that illustrate how the structure narrows at each level, transitioning from single to double bays as it ascends.

Local craftsmanship is highlighted through the use of nine special bricks made by a local brick maker and laid traditionally by local bricklayers, showcasing a vibrant brick technology reminiscent of England.

Architectural Features

The facade resembles a textile with significant presence in the square, complemented by an arch entrance crafted using traditional methods.

A recent project involved transforming an existing restaurant building into a holiday home after it had been empty for several years. The original structure included two floors with later additions that were poorly constructed.

Renovation Process

Efforts were made to preserve as much of the original structure as possible while introducing new elements that blend seamlessly with existing features. This includes a front porch inspired by Pierrot the clown.

Structural changes included creating a double-height salon space where public uses were initially required but later deemed unnecessary; however, community events continue to be held there.

Interior Design Choices

Color plays an essential role in interior design choices, utilizing non-traditional colors developed in collaboration with Fontana painters who set up workshops on-site.

New timber linings and unique flooring designs incorporate mica-rich pigments that change appearance under different lighting conditions.

Balancing Old and New Elements

The renovation reflects a balance between preservation and innovation, featuring both old and new materials throughout various spaces including living rooms and staircases.

Unique artistic touches include trompe-l'œil effects created by painters on structural elements like doors and chimneys to enhance visual interest without compromising integrity.

Audience Engagement & Questions

After concluding his presentation, the speaker invites questions from the audience regarding their approach to renovations—specifically about blending old structures with new interventions while maintaining unity within design aesthetics.

Coherence in Architecture: Balancing Old and New

The Challenge of Articulating Old and New

The speaker discusses the conventional approach to working on historic buildings, emphasizing that it often involves a clear distinction between new and old elements, which is mandated by conservation legislation.

They argue against this modernist idea of rupture, suggesting that ambiguity between new and old can be more beneficial, as they believe the split is not necessary.

The speaker references cathedrals built over time with various architectural styles, highlighting how historical structures often incorporate different phases without emphasizing their differences.

Perspectives on Conservation Practices

In discussing their project at Royal Belgium, the speaker notes a positive relationship with conservation authorities who appreciated their approach to integrating new elements while respecting existing features.

They mention that modern monuments present unique challenges due to contemporary perceptions of what constitutes "old" or "new," complicating expected articulations in design.

Emphasizing Reuse and Internal Elevation

The focus during the Royal Belgium project was on reusing materials like thick marble rather than discarding them, aiming for an internal elevation that respects original details while allowing for functional updates.

The process involved creatively adapting existing elements rather than starting from scratch, likening it to digital manipulation where components are copied and adjusted.

Shifts in Architectural Philosophy

Over recent years, there has been a shift towards retaining more layers of history within existing buildings instead of removing perceived clutter; only items obstructing functionality are discarded.

This change reflects a broader understanding that each project presents unique circumstances requiring intuitive responses rather than rigid adherence to dogmatic conservation practices.

Engaging with Public Perception

The speaker highlights the importance of public perception in architecture; non-architectural users may not notice distinctions between new and old but appreciate cohesive designs.

They emphasize that successful integration can lead people to perceive newly designed structures as longstanding parts of their environment.

Rethinking Architectural Completion

A discussion arises about whether architectural works are ever truly finished or if they remain open for reinterpretation over time. This perspective necessitates shifts in both monument board thinking and architects' approaches toward ongoing evolution in design.

Architectural Challenges in Building Renovation

Importance of Client Tolerance and Future-Proofing Buildings

The role of the client is crucial; they must be open to discussions about the future adaptability of their buildings.

Technical installations often need replacement, raising questions about how to manage 50 years of wear while maintaining structural integrity.

Structural Reinforcement Regulations

In Switzerland, renovations require seismic reinforcements even for buildings that have stood for a century without earthquake damage.

This requirement can lead to extensive and sometimes violent modifications to existing structures, prompting debates on necessity given historical stability.

Economic and Environmental Implications

A shift in regulations could significantly reduce carbon emissions in construction by promoting building reuse over new constructions.

Renovating existing housing can provide more affordable options compared to new builds, as older apartments are typically smaller and thus cheaper.

Housing Size and Affordability Issues

Current trends show that newer apartments are larger, leading to higher rents which eliminate affordable housing options from the market.

As household sizes decrease, the space per person increases unnecessarily, exacerbating affordability issues in urban areas.

Legal and Economic Barriers

The challenges faced are not insurmountable; they primarily revolve around legal frameworks and economic incentives rather than technical difficulties.

Achieving social consensus on these issues is essential for meaningful change in architectural practices.

Engaging Society and Politics in Architectural Preservation

Communicating the Value of Existing Structures

A student raises concerns about how architects can advocate for preserving existing buildings instead of opting for demolition.

Shifts in Architectural Competitions

There has been a generational shift towards recognizing the value of retaining existing structures within architectural competitions.

Young architects often propose keeping buildings during competitions, sparking discussions that may influence future projects positively.

Recognition from Clients and Authorities

Increased awareness among clients has led to more competitions favoring renovation over demolition as cities recognize they do not always need new constructions.

Ongoing Challenges with Demolition Practices

Discussion on Architectural Ethics and Sustainability

Prize Winners and Building Preservation

The speaker discusses the implications of winning a prize for their project, noting that if no winners preserved the building, it would raise questions about their decisions.

They emphasize the importance of legal decisions in architecture, particularly regarding sites with pollution issues where basements cannot be built due to contamination.

Legal and Financial Implications of Renovation

The high costs associated with removing contaminated ground are highlighted; all countries face similar challenges regarding environmental regulations.

A suggestion is made to increase disposal costs for construction waste to incentivize renovation over new builds, indicating a need for legislative change.

Gray Energy Calculations in Switzerland

Recent legislation in Switzerland requires gray energy calculations for new constructions, affecting building permissions based on sustainability metrics.

The discussion shifts towards architectural ethics and the responsibility of architects to advocate for existing buildings rather than solely catering to client demands.

Sustainable Material Choices in Architecture

A question arises about how architects decide on sustainable materials during renovation projects. The speaker notes ongoing learning from each project.

Emphasis is placed on using timber structures due to Switzerland's abundant resources and advancements in timber technology.

Innovations in Timber Construction

The speaker explains the shift from using glued laminated timber (CLT), which contains petroleum-based products, to dowel-laminated timber (DLT), which minimizes glue usage.

They stress that while timber can help trap carbon emissions, there is a limit to how many new buildings can be constructed sustainably with this material.

Utilizing Existing Materials

There’s an increasing market for reclaimed materials from demolition sites, promoting sustainability by reusing steel, timber, stone, etc.

Building Energy Efficiency: Key Improvements

Effective Heating Solutions

The most impactful change for building energy efficiency is altering the heat source. Replacing oil or gas boilers with heat pumps can yield a 60% improvement in energy performance without additional insulation or window upgrades.

Utilizing electricity as a heat source can lead to zero carbon emissions, depending on the local electricity supply. In Switzerland, and increasingly in Britain, a significant portion of electricity is now low-carbon.

There are ongoing projects where buildings have transitioned from gas boilers to heat pumps mid-project due to the reduced carbon footprint of electricity over time.

Client Engagement and Decision-Making

Continuous learning is essential in this field; professionals must stay informed and listen to experts while also persuading clients about energy-efficient solutions.