Exploring the Conservation of Parametric Architecture

Entry requirements

Please use this Research Proposal, Personal statement and CV: GUIDE when preparing an application.

Months of entry

Anytime

Course content

Topic

Parametric Architecture, of the 21st century, is well known for its organic forms, complex geometrical shapes, and inspirations from nature. The use of mathematical equations, algorithmic processes and a variety of designing tools, enable architects to implement their ambitious designs. Architects experimented by exploring the strength, mechanics and potential of natural and manmade materials (timber, stone, concrete, steel, glass, ice, etc) to create extraordinary and distinctive designs, that shaped the urban landscapes and enhanced interior spaces. Parametric Architecture was initiated by pioneers in the 19th and 20th centuries (A. Gaudi, L. Moretti, F. Otto, etc) but reached its zenith in the 21st century when many architects, including Zaha Hadid who entertained the idea of ‘360 degrees Architecture’, and ZHAs Patrik Schumacher who declared the ‘parametric’ a style. We do not limit the research to this singular practice. Nonetheless we agree with Schumacher, that parametric architecture reflects social, environmental and technological innovations of its time. We further suggest that this is gradually becoming part of our World Architectural History. It is timely therefore, to consider how Parametric Architecture as a site of future conservation.

This PhD explores a holistic approach in researching Parametric Architecture to identify its future Conservation. The study will focus on understanding the principles of their design concepts, materials, flexibility, adaptability, sustainability, tectonic strategies and construction details. It will explore the current tendencies in conservation, sustainable retrofit, adaptive reuse, and climate change challenges. It will aim to identify future sustainable conservation, criteria, policies and guidelines for parametric architectures.

Invitation

This PhD welcomes applications by students from a variety of backgrounds relevant to Architecture and Design, Structural Engineering, and Building Conservation. Applicants are welcomed from prospective students wishing to undertake research on Parametric Architecture, using case studies from around the world, and a variety of materials and techniques.

The PhD main questions

What could be the criteria, guidelines for the Conservation of Parametric Architecture?

What can we consider during the design and construction of Parametric structures, to ensure their resilience?

Methodology

The PhD research will adopt qualitative and quantitative methods. These include literature review on the development and design of parametric structures and legislation on conservation issues. The methods will focus on archival research, including practice-based research and interviews in architectural practices, visits to buildings and sites, critical analysis and will propose set of guidelines for future conservation.

Contribution to knowledge

The PhD findings are expected to contribute to the emerging field of conservation of complex and parametric structures, conservation of their fabric and structural integrity, to ensure their sustainable retrofit and adaptive reuse in the future. The PhD aims to identify to what extend current legislative framework and international conservation guidance is applicable for parametric structures and what policies should be consider in the future to ensure its continuation. The resulting proposals could potentially result in a set of guidelines aiming to attract global interest influencing the ICOMOS considerations and future UNESCO Charters and Conventions.

Fees and funding

This programme is self-funded.

To enquire about University of Salford funding schemes – including the Widening Participation Scholarship – visit this website.