COHERENT NARRATIVE OF FORMALISM IN ARCHITECTURE AND CLARIFYING ITS RELATIONSHIP TO THE CONCEPT OF FORM

Year 2023, Volume: 9 Issue: 1, 71 - 82, 30.06.2023

Saba Matın Aygören

Abstract

The concept of form is one of the most essential aspects of contemporary architectural discourse. Additionally, there is a school of thought and approach to architecture known as formalism, which focuses primarily on the form of work while paying little attention to other aspects of architecture, such as functionality, structure, social considerations, and cultural influences. The form is the central concept in formalist thinking. However, the multiple meanings of the word "form" and the lack of consistent research into formalism's origins and philosophical roots make it challenging to understand the relationship between formalist thinking and the concept of form in architecture. This research aims to explore formalism in the epistemological field of architecture. By examining the idea of formalism in architecture, we will determine the specific understanding of form that this idea entails. We will discuss formalism as an idea put forth by scholars, critics, and theorists who have been involved in the study and critique of architecture. To achieve this, we will refer to historical and theoretical sources and architectural criticism that has addressed the question of formalism and form in architecture. Formalist thinking in architecture has its roots in the artistic formalism movement. Over time, it has evolved and been enriched by various theories and teachings, significantly impacting the perspectives of theorists, critics, and architectural professionals. In this article, we distinguish three types of formalism. First, formalism is a mode of thought among scholars who have approached architecture and architectural knowledge from a formalist perspective. Second, formalism is a method used in the analysis of architectural works. Third, formalism is a method employed in the design of architectural works.

Keywords

Form, formalism, architectural formalism, concept of form

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