Architectural exaptation
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Architectural exaptation refers to the practice of repurposing architectural elements, buildings, or structures for uses that differ from their original design or intended purpose [1][2][3][4]. It involves adapting features or structures to entirely new functions, irrespective of their initial conception [5][6]. The term "ex-aptation," introduced by paleontologists Stephen J. Gould and Elisabeth Vrba[7] describes a phenomenon where a structure or form, originally evolved for one purpose, becomes useful for a different purpose through two primary mechanisms: (1) functional shift, involving the repurposing of a structure by natural selection for a new function, and (2) functional co-optation from nonadaptation (referred to as exaptation by Telmo Pievani).
In simpler terms, while "adaptation" usually implies historical processes tailored for specific functions, the concept of exaptation challenges this notion, highlighting that in evolution, form does not necessarily follow function [8]. For example, consider the panda's so-called sixth finger, initially an extension of the back of the hand but now functioning as another finger. Architectural exaptation is an interdisciplinary concept that connects the fields of architecture and archaeology. It explores the intricate relationship between structural design and functionality. Additionally, it examines the balance between refinement and inherent imperfections in the socio-natural world, challenging the predominant "adaptationist" and deterministic viewpoints of the 20th century [9].
One significant argument in favour of architectural exaptation is its potential to inspire innovative and unforeseen design solutions. It also contributes to sustainability efforts by promoting the reuse of existing resources. This phenomenon can manifest at various scales, from minor design elements within a building to entire structures or urban spaces [8]. It underscores the dynamic and adaptable nature of the built environment, where architectural elements can assume flexible and evolving roles over time. Tate Modern in London, High Line in New York, Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Plaza de Toros de las Arenas in Barcelona, and Temporary appropriations of public spaces exemplify this adaptability[3][10].
Architectural exaptation advocates for a comprehensive and imaginative approach to design. It emphasizes the potential for functional co-optation and creative reuse of architectural elements, fostering innovation and sustainability[3].
References
- ^ "Architectural Exaptation: When Function Follows Form". Routledge & CRC Press. Retrieved 2023-10-03.
- ^ Melis, Alessandro; Pievani, Telmo (2022), Rezaei, Nima (ed.), "Exaptation as a Design Strategy for Resilient Communities", Transdisciplinarity, Integrated Science, vol. 5, Cham: Springer International Publishing, pp. 307–327, doi:10.1007/978-3-030-94651-7_15, ISBN 978-3-030-94651-7, retrieved 2023-08-11
- ^ a b c Lara-Hernandez, Jose Antonio (2023-01-01), Allam, Zaheer; Chabaud, Didier; Gall, Catherine; Pratlong, Florent (eds.), "Chapter 29 - Building urban resilience through infrastructure exaptation", Resilient and Sustainable Cities, Elsevier, pp. 537–549, ISBN 978-0-323-91718-6, retrieved 2023-08-11
- ^ Melis, Alessandro; Lara-Hernandez, Jose Antonio; Melis, Barbora (2022-01-01). "Learning from the biology of evolution: exaptation as a design strategy for future cities". Smart and Sustainable Built Environment. 11 (2): 205–216. doi:10.1108/SASBE-08-2021-0141. ISSN 2046-6099. S2CID 245792698.
- ^ Lara-Hernandez, Jose Antonio (2022), Carta, Maurizio; Perbellini, Maria R.; Lara-Hernandez, Jose Antonio (eds.), "Resilience, Architectural Exaptation, and Temporary Appropriation", Resilient Communities and the Peccioli Charter: Towards the Possibility of an Italian Charter for Resilient Communities, Cham: Springer International Publishing, pp. 257–264, doi:10.1007/978-3-030-85847-6_27, ISBN 978-3-030-85847-6, retrieved 2023-08-12
- ^ Melis, Alessandro (2021-01-01). "Community Resilience Through Exaptation. Notes for a Transposition of the Notions of Exaptation Into a Design Practice to Promote Diversity and Resilience as an Alternative to Planning Determinism During Crisis". Design and Non-Normativity. In the Era of Paradigm Shifts (22): 70–77. doi:10.37199/f40002208. ISSN 2227-7994. S2CID 260799439.
- ^ Gould, Stephen Jay; Vrba, Elisabeth S. (January 1982). "Exaptation—a Missing Term in the Science of Form". Paleobiology. 8 (1): 4–15. Bibcode:1982Pbio....8....4G. doi:10.1017/S0094837300004310. ISSN 0094-8373. S2CID 86436132.
- ^ a b Lara-Hernandez, Jose Antonio (2023-01-01), Allam, Zaheer; Chabaud, Didier; Gall, Catherine; Pratlong, Florent (eds.), "Chapter 29 - Building urban resilience through infrastructure exaptation", Resilient and Sustainable Cities, Elsevier, pp. 537–549, doi:10.1016/b978-0-323-91718-6.00021-9, ISBN 978-0-323-91718-6, retrieved 2023-08-11
- ^ Pievani, Telmo; Serrelli, Emanuele (October 2008). "Education in Evolution and Science Through Laboratory Activities". Evolution: Education and Outreach. 1 (4): 541–547. doi:10.1007/s12052-008-0072-5. ISSN 1936-6434. S2CID 9559191.
- ^ Lara-Hernandez, J. Antonio (August 2023). "Emergent temporary appropriation versus lockdown regulations: The case of Venice". Sustainable Cities and Society. 99: 104854. doi:10.1016/j.scs.2023.104854. ISSN 2210-6707. S2CID 260879763.