Roller Coaster Construction

The way in which a roller coaster is constructed is based on site.  The main idea is created and generated by the engineer, but the site in which the roller coaster is to be placed becomes a major generating factor for the response of the structure.  This is what Alejandro Zaera-Polo of Foreign Office Architects explains is a process of their firms architectural practice.  The concept that building geometries are only related to the manufacturing and construction systems, but modification to these geometries can occur at any time in the architectural process.  He explains that architectural form and creative process is being stifled by the way in which standard architectural technique is being implemented in design.  The rigid techniques of the past are hindering the creative process, and affecting the final structural product. 

 

From the perspective of student that is only working purely in the design process it is always in my mind attempt to create the most compelling design, pushing my limits, while still fulfilling the goals of my project.  This is the goal of the architect, or at least one would hope so. To always create the most compelling structure possible that still fulfills the needs of the client. But architecture is a creative process that is surrounded by a rigid business, which ultimately results in stifled creativity and projects suffer. The article states that, sometimes “experienced architects no longer feel the need to learn.” Perhaps this is at the heart of the issue.  Not necessarily that experienced architects believe they are above learning, but they have discovered their process and don’t see the need to seek outside the world of their comfort zone. A seasoned professional knows what works for him and will do just that…what works.  But the amateur is still learning and changing his process, he has no concept of his limitations and will push to better himself usually surpassing his boundaries ultimately resulting in an unprecedented end product. 

The world is always changing and it is the responsibility for the architect to change with it.   FOA recognizes the importance of flexibility in design for the betterment of the project and the design process.  “Processes are far less constraining then ideas which are linked.”  Rigid ideas and set concepts will ultimately hinder the end result.  Allowing flexibility in the production of the building allows it to take form in a more organic way.  Rather then sticking to the old way of thinking it will allow construction to occur like that of a roller coaster responding to site, context, and changing terrain, just like a roller coaster.  This flexibility will allow a new discipline and process to emerge.

“(FOA) demonstrates how to effectively exploit the potential offered by contemporary architectural techniques in order to initiate dynamic process which produce new effects of contemporary conditions that are temporal and qualitative.”