Master Project

Transforming Devastation: Architectural Mutations in a Post-War City

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The question of leveraging the devastating negative effects of war to drive architectural innovation has been a recurring theme in a city scarred by its history of conflict and destruction. In this endeavor, I find myself contemplating how to approach a wounded building, one that bears the marks of injury, breach, and trauma. How can we interpret and honor its history while envisioning a new purpose for its existence?

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One method I have explored is akin to architectural “acupuncture.” By identifying the building’s weak points and addressing them methodically, while also considering the broader context of the entire structure, a transformative process is set in motion. This reaction results in the emergence of the building’s new form, a testament to its resilience and adaptability.

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Integral to this process is the integration of partial demolition within the new architectural design, where destruction becomes a catalyst for mutation. Three fundamental principles guide this approach: thoughtfully superimpose the injury with the program’s functional needs to ensure seamless integration, and philosophically shift the narrative from a negative and painful memory to a positive proposition, adding value through the transformation without erasing the historical significance of the war’s destruction.

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In this architectural exploration, we strive to illuminate the potential for growth and resilience in the face of adversity. By embracing the scars of the past, we celebrate the evolution of our city, forging a path toward a future that honors its history while redefining its architectural landscape with hope, purpose, and enduring beauty.