Abstract:
The theoretical focus of this study is Meaning in Architecture. The study does not draw from history or popular culture for meaning, but will aim to transcend Post-modern concepts by focusing on the contemporary condition and archetypal forms as a result of history and popular culture. This is done through the use of fractal geometry and deals with the questions that arise regarding signification. Fractals can be considered a subdivision of the language of mathematics and will be utilised as mediation between the reality of our world and the generation of form for the purpose of design. This is explored in two analogies, Architecture and Mathematics; and Architecture and Language. Through this process, subjectivity relating to form is removed as the design was developed in conjunction with the area in which it manifests, through the transformation of quantifiable entities into form. The programme and the process have become a unified whole in that mathematical concepts were utilised to design a building to house people involved with mathematics. The aim of the design proposal is to contribute to the urban landscape of Tshwane by allowing access to facilities in which training in mathematics and computer science can be achieved and to allow individuals to come to a place of self-actualization. The design is defined as a snapshot of the contemporary condition and therefore makes use of passive and active technologies to create a habitable environment. It is imperative to realise that society is in a process of transition and this can be embraced by combining ‘green’ and ‘non-green’ design approaches, while working towards more energy-efficient design solutions. Copyright
