Function as the Design Initiative

In 2012, much attention will be paid to function, based on the activity pattern of the dweller or user. Further focus will be directed to the building materials selected, to create the desired aesthetic, and to the arrangement and development of space. Modernity by definition often avoids ornamentation and unnecessary detailing.

Contemporary design reveals a signature of simplicity, key words being: clean, functional and aesthetic. There is an obvious synergy with modern lifestyle and the support and integration of technology are key. Add to this the influence of globalisation, e.g. an architecture that has evolved as an international signature, having a similar concept and appearance on a world-wide scale.

If we accept that functionality is the starting point of contemporary design – and that the look is global – then we must consider other influences of modern lifestyle, the dictating of rapidity of manufacture and ease of use. This demand for efficiency is supported by technology and industrialisation and it is reflected in today’s architecture, in channeling the needs of users towards simple buildings offering clean, functional spaces. This ethos manifests as an international symbol of the modern spirit.

What is the state of contemporary architecture in SA? And is our direction in sync with trends globally?

Says Adrian Maserow of AMA Architects: ‘As South African architects we are actively exploring the impact of dwindling energy resources and climate change within a global design culture. We are mindful that these aspects will allow architectural thinking to go forward; the race to learn about all of these issues is on. As architects we are at the tipping point with regards to our ability to change, in order to refine our designs with greater balance, intelligence and humility.’

Jenny Mills of Jenny Mills architecture and interiors feels that there are local parameters: ‘In some ways the program of our work is different. There are limited large-scale commercial and civic buildings here, yet there are numerous fine-grained individual programs to be interpreted and solved. So our direction is more unique to South Africa. And yet the expressiveness of our work is becoming more varied – less didactic – and this is definitely a global trend.’

Stefan Antoni, Greg Truen and Philip Olmesdahl of Cape Town-based SAOTA, feel the general standard of residential architecture in South Africa is surprisingly high. ‘We constantly hear comments from overseas tourists that they are taken aback by the extent of innovative contemporary homes, especially in Cape Town, where they are much more visible. Johannesburg has always had a great tradition of good contemporary design and with the ‘Tuscan / Provençal’ style thankfully on the wane this is again resurfacing. There is a greater worldliness evident in most SA architects; we want to know what is going on around us.

January/February 2012 Issue

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