Coyne, Richard

Cairns, Stephen

Reynders, Hendrik Jurie

2011-10-03T13:53:58Z

2011-10-03T13:53:58Z

2011-06-29

This thesis investigates the value of locating contradictory architectural imperatives when attempting to understand the nature of uneven development in the urban field. The thesis is an attempt at establishing seemingly necessary, yet conflicting mandates in a more revolutionary architectural praxis in support of citizen infrastructure and social equality. Argued through issues related to ownership and subversion in contexts where tracts of urban space are sometimes taken over or appropriated by otherwise marginal groups, and as evident in informal settlements, by re-adapting civic symbols and in building as a form of protest or re-alignment. This is visible in most contested territories, along borders and in the temporal occupation of space. The thesis is supported through empirical investigations in a number of such sites in South Africa where these tactics are increasingly becoming controlled and institutionalized ‑ while at same time exposing new forms of social awareness, a growing autonomous resistance from still marginalised groups and pointing towards innovative spatial formations.

http://hdl.handle.net/1842/5513

en

The University of Edinburgh

Reynders, Hennie. “Thoughts on Design as Strategy - design in the fluid interface of ritual pattern and technological innovation,” 5th EAD International Conference Papers. Barcelona: EAD Conference Proceedings (May 2003)

Reynders, Hennie. “Appropriation of an Architecture for Truth and Reconciliation Constitutional Hill, Johannesburg South Africa.” Edinburgh Architecture Research 31 (2006)

architecture

urban

field

place

space

ownership

other

difference

Locating contradictory architectural imperatives: appropriation and subversion in the urban field

Thesis or Dissertation

Doctoral

PhD Doctor of Philosophy