Reformulating Koolhaas’ strategy of the void

Abstract

This article deals with the topic of void as a design instrument and theory in architectural design, with a focus on Rem Koolhaas and his specific void design approach. The primary goal is to examine Koolhaas’ perception and usage of void as a design element to continue his theory of the Strategy of the Void I and II by creating some novel design strategies similar to his. To achieve this, the topic of void was broadly analyzed, reaching from the analysis and interpretation of various writings and theoretical works to four pivotal void-projects from Koolhaas. As a result, a genealogy surrounding Koolhaas’ Strategy of the Void I and II has emerged alongside four distinct design strategies which are named after their used void design action of (a) juxtaposition, (b) superposition, (c) cutting, and (d) excavating. Each of these strategies can be used to create a specific design outcome such as (a) an overarching concept, (b) a connection between entities (circulation), (c) architectural spaces, and (d) a contrast. Moreover, it was found that the former two strategies can be categorized as preceding and the latter two as proceeding void design strategies in relation to Koolhaas’ original ones.