Adjusted Techniques by Architects Trained as Craftsmen

Abstract

Many theorists acknowledge that Modern architecture denied the architect’s crafty gesture for the sake of pure formal and compositional status of a building. As well, modern technology in construction has been prevailing as the sole support for modern architecture. But there exists architects who proposed a dialectic development of traditional and modern techniques. This thought was prominent in Germanic circle where technological development was in advance. Throughout 20th century, the works of Adolf Loos, Mies Van der Rohe, and Peter Zumthor are representatives in each period. A common point begins from their apprenticeships as craftsmen: Loos and Mies as stonemasons, Zumthor as a cabinetmaker. More than this fact, their craftsmanship is embedded in their works and express creativity of architects. While mass production system raises non-participatory practice that merely require assemblage of products, the adjusted techniques with craftsmanship brings forth a participatory practice that does not limit the creativity of architects.