Purposeful/Purposeless

Abstract

This thesis examines what makes a building valuable enough to keep regardless of what happens within it or where it is. A generic vacant lot in Dartmouth, N.S., ensures that these qualities are derived primarily from the architecture rather than its site. By housing three very different building programs, an auto body shop, small school and church, the design is challenged to become resilient to significant change. The thesis draws on ideas of building permanency - polyvalencey and frame theory (Leupen), as well as adaptability - building layers and strategic over-dimensioning (Brand). Valuable permanency is achieved by creating a building that is both full of purpose and purposeless at the same time. Furposefully, it is achieved through the use and correct arrangement of common forms, spatial sizes, a diversity of spatial types, as well as a high degree of self-maintenance of climate and construction. The purposeless qualities of proportion, craft and light help give the building its enduring character.