Typological Design Strategy of FOA's Architecture

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the possibilities of architectural typology as a design methodology in contemporary architecture. Thus far, type and typology has been considered purely theoretical or conventional methodology in practice. The use of 'type' as a tool in the design process has led to 'typification' of design that discourages the emergence of new formal structures. Despite the criticism of traditional typology, the works of FOA provide a clue to redefining and reinterpreting the subject of typology, which enables us to operate appropriately in constantly shifting environments. The transformations inherent in FOA's works include the following features. Firstly, the concept of type as an imitable precedent was replaced by an abstract and topological structure of form. Secondly, repetition and reproduction of types were complemented by the protocol of evolution and proliferation. Lastly, the traditional classification system based on the relationships between specific form and function turned into a hierarchical classification system of spatial structure by which formal diversity can be acquired.