PUBLIC DEBATING FORLIM: Architecture as a Medium of Expression of Power

Abstract

Institutional architecture embodies social will, where it gives shape to the ideals of the society it does so through invoking a play of people, politics and place. It happens through the simple act of giving dominance to certain issues and ideals; a hierarchical power structure is established in limbo with architecture. At this moment of economic instability, political disorder, and technological transformation, many of our institutions are in crisis, increasingly irrelevant or already obsolete. This idea questions the boundaries of the discipline, claiming an urgent role for architecture not just in giving physical form to institutions, but also in the very conception/ notion of them. Architecture, a medium, echoing the people's ideology and political will .The project explores the expression of power through architecture and how it can be influenced / affected by the society. It is the identification and exploration of a symbolic interactive space, through representation and ownership in Architecture. The idea is that a structure's totality can be envisioned as a response for the ultimate need of creating architectural identity. A place, and a public forum projecting the voice of the people, catalyzing social reformation and development. Thus, the project is to provide a space reflecting architectural individuality that will be able to stand its ground against all future developments. Its multifunctional quality can bridge the gap between knowledge and power.