Abstract:
This research centers upon the key aspect of the virtual, as established by Elizabeth Grosz. The virtual and its related elements are examined against historical and contemporary models to understand how these processes are grounded within architecture. The virtual as a spatial conception is placed within contemporary notions of space-time; the architectural history of which is examined from its beginnings with Sigfried Giedion through to current conceptions of space-time within the virtual as established by Elizabeth Grosz. Historical examples included Medieval English and Japanese Guild culture. Traditional Japanese conceptions of space are also examined in relation to the virtual. The similarities of the Japanese construction process with its abilities to produce new, unique and inventive solutions to problems are compared to works of New Zealand architect John Verstappen. His projects encourage a process of construction, through a unique hands-on approach, that enables the architecture to develop and build upon itself. This promotes an inventive and innovative approach; the project becomes open to possibilities. It is proposed that these qualities find correlation within the virtual, the beginnings of an architecture based in the virtual.
