LOST IN TRANSLATION : WHY VISION OF A SPACE GETS CHANGED FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION

An space is never built & will be never built as envisioned by the designer.The idea will be reduced and adapted as it goes through the multiple layers of architectural process from conception to creation.

1.Cognition layer

When the idea is born in the mind.We immediately start to censor and modify the idea with our beliefs, knowledge and biases.

An classical architect will consider the above idea (Sagrada Familia) as blasphemy for God and censor the idea in the mind itself

2.Expression & Communication layer

We inevitably have to express the idea in an medium to understand it our self and to communicate it to others. Whatever it may be,an drawing or a digital model.There will be adaptation due to opportunities and constraints of the medium.

3.Science & Technology layer

When the idea needs to built in the physical world,It has to obey the laws of science like gravity.Even if the laws of science allow the structure,It will be modified further since we need to build it with available technology.

Space colonies such as above one envisioned by blue origin couldn’t be built even though it is scientifically feasible since we haven’t catched up with space construction technology

4.Economics layer

The building need to be build with materials using construction equipment and labour. For which we need capital (Money).The idea will be modified to fit the budget.Even if the budget allows,the skill set of available labour further modifies the idea.

5.Regulatory layer

The idea needs to be modified to adapt the local planning regulations like building height restrictions & fire code.

This elegant idea will be modified to suit the regulations

6.Reality layer

When you construct the space,It won’t be the final form of idea in the regulatory layer since there will be errors in execution due to miscommunication and unforeseen circumstances.

The leaning tower of Pisa was supposed to be straight but It leaned due to soft ground

Final thoughts

At each layer,there will be additions & subtractions to the idea.We need to be conscious of the modification process and improve them over time. The highest goal we can hope for is that the final product(Building) will have the crux of the original idea at least.