NEW ARCHITECTURAL ICONS OF THE COMPETITIVE ERA

Abstract

Production of space has always been a multi-dimensional phenomenon for various disciplines. This multidimensional nature; including politics, technology, sociology, economy etc. of this phenomenon creates a fertile tool for understanding 21st century’s world. Architecture, the discipline of spatial production also embodies the creation of meaning for both individuals and communities. This comprehensiveness of architecture has always given it an active role for building and making visible the dynamics that shape the world. In the light of this, in order to understand the today’s world, architecture serves as a key tool in means of both production of space and production of conflicting meanings. Since neoliberalism is used for defining the major impetus beginning from 20th century, how are the spaces/places and meanings change under this impetus is a worth-asking question. Following this question, taking architecture and production of space under the effects of neoliberalism as a focus point, the term “non-spaces” which first enounced by Augé Augé, 1995 can give us a general idea about the spaces of today’s milieu. Augé used this term generally for describing spaces like airports, highways and shopping malls etc. that represent emptiness and give no chance for establishing meaningful bonds. Taking a step further; this paper aims to discuss the role of architecture as a key component for competing cities through production of space following neoliberal urban politics. In this point of view, can architectural icons with similar functions such as culture, sports or other international events, created by star architects, help us to enlarge the scope of “non-spaces?” is the basic question of this paper. The paper will be based on the theories of neoliberal urban politics and the role of architecture in creating meaning and rationalizing these politics in competitive cities. Secondly, new functions and the role of star architects will be focused through these theories. Following these discussions, examples of mega-projects, both built and unbuilt, of some star architects will be opened to discussion

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