Design for Uncertainty

Design for Uncertainty: Finding New Strategies to Revive The Industrial Buildings of Goose Island in Chicago Master Dissertation By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh Under the Supervision of Martine De Maeseneer 1 Faculty of Architecture KU Leuven June 2021

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© Ahmad Ramezanzadeh. All rights Including the copyright is reserved to Ahmad Ramezanzadeh & KU Leuven.

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Abstract What does ‘design for uncertainty’ mean? Is it possible to design an architecture when uncertainty has skyrocketed, e.g., without knowing about the function and the use of a building? Can we bene t from an extreme state of uncertainty in favor of architectural planning and design?

Considering a city and its architecture as an image of the zeitgeist of an era, the most prominent characteristic of our era is perhaps uncertainty. We live in a time of great uncertainty. Climate change with the rampant development in communicational technologies and transportation modes, all with the emergence of COVID-19, has created a transformational condition at an incredible speed that has deeply challenged and changed our lives. How we live, use, and interact with our built environments is changing with an unprecedented frequency and depth. Today the survival of our buildings and urban structures depends on their capacity to adapt well to our changing living and working habits and behaviors. In other words, to realize the idea of functional architecture, one must recognize the uncertainty as the main problem of architecture. Starting an architectural/urban project in an uncertain context requires a new approach towards architecture and urban design based on 'possibilities' rather than 'certainty.' As the result of the ux of possibilities, a living complex requires maximum exibility. A exible living complex accepts various functions and users who have their own spatial needs. In this new vision, where the users can shape and build their own spaces, the result would be a dynamic and diverse living complex, unlike typical today buildings that are mostly based on repeated units and oors.

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Acknowledgement I want to thank professor Martine De Maeseneer. Without Her detailed advice, this dissertation would not be fruitful, and Her encouragement has always kept me motivated.

I also should thank my parents for their boundless love and support.

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Table of Content

1. The Relationship Between Uncertainty and Architecture 1.1 Uncertainty and The Human Nature ………………………………………. 11 1.2 Sources of Uncertainty In The Process of Architectural Construction ………11 1.3 The Need For a Flexible Framework…………………………………………11 1.4 The Importance of Design For Uncertainty…………………………………..14 1.5 The Signi cance of the User’s Role in Design For Uncertainty……………… 14

2. Decline of The Chicago Industrial Sites and The Emergence of A New Working Culture 2.1 Chicago School : Building As an Instrument of Investment ………..……… 16 2.2 The Monotone And Repetitive Architecture of Chicago………………….… 16 2.3 The Rise of a New Working Culture……………….…………………..…… 24 2.4 The Dilemma of ‘’Form Follows Function’’ And The Importance………….…24 of Rede ning The Meaning of The Function of Space

3. The Need For a Flexible Framework 3.1 Maximising Flexibility and Creation of Value/Quality as Two ….…………… 26 Complementary Strategies to Design For Uncertainty 3.2 The Signi cance of The Flexibility in Architecture ………………..……..…. 30 3.3 Flexibility: An Inherent Ability In Human Beings………………….….…..…. 30 3.4 The Modern Interpretations of The Flexibility……………………..…..……. 30 3.5 Contemporary Approach Towards The Flexibility: The Case of Japan…… 32 3.6 Separation of Served Spaces From Servant Spaces……………………. 36 3.7 The Architecture of The High-Tech……………………….………………. 36

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4. Case Study: The Golshan House In Yazd 4.1 Introduction………………………………………………………………..

4.2 The Concept of Garden………………………………….………………..

4.3 Dualism of Filled And Empty………………………………….……………

4.4 Balance Between Positive and Negative Space…………………………..

4.5 Functionless Spaces……………………….……………………………..

4.6 The Four Ivan Plan……………………………………………..….………

4.7 The Importance of Hierarchical Orders……………………………………

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5. Renovation Of An Existing O ce Block in Goose Island Based On The Principles of Design for Uncertainty Intervention Plan…………………………………………………………… 61 The Site……………………………………………………………………. 62 The Result…………………………………………………………………. 64

6. Conclusions 7. Bibliography 8. Appendix

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Introduction The rst chapter of this re ection paper deals with the relationship of uncertainty with architecture. The main goal of this chapter is to clarify that how uncertainty leads to the elevation of architecture.

The Second chapter contains investigation about the reasons behind the decline of Chicago industrial sites.

In chapter three, the arguments revolve around creating architectural values and exibility as two fundamental strategies of design for uncertainty.

Chapter four is a case study from the traditional architecture of Iran as a representative example of a exible and valuable architecture. The aim is to discover how a conventional living complex built almost two centuries ago has remained intact while its sole purpose was to provide housing for a family. Without any demolition, in time, this example and many other similar buildings have transformed into Hotels, Of ces, Museums, Cultural Centres, etc. This Incredible Flexibility is possible thanks to spatial diversity, which is missing in most of the buildings in Chicago.

Chapter ve is the results of the proposed solutions and strategies applied to an existing building in Chicago. Since the proposals apply to any living complex, I chose a regular of ce building with a typical plan and layout, similar to most buildings in the industrial landscape of Goose Island in Chicago.

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Background/ Problem Statement Today, the landscape of Goose Island, the location of our target site, is damaged. A long time ago, it was a vital and active industrial area. With the migration of workers to cheaper cities and policymakers’ tendency to moving industries out of the urban areas, this island has lost its vibrant life (Fig4&6). Today, Goose Island's main characteristics are fragmentation by walls and fences, and the buildings are mostly closed to the public. The cost of buying these lands and buildings is high, and many companies prefer renting spaces rather than buying a whole building.

E-Commerce, and interest in online working, especially after the emergence of COVID-19, have changed the meaning of working and of ce. In this unprecedented scenario, the users and functions of an of ce block are not xed and prede ned anymore.

Thus, we need to de ne and implement an architectural project that works under high levels of uncertainty.

Design Questions .What are the sources of uncertainty to be discovered before an architectural construction? .Can we bene t from a state of uncertainty in architectural design? .Considering a possible role of users in shaping and organizing their spaces, what type of design strategies can we employ for an architectural project in an uncertain context? .How does a new of ce building based on the new design strategies building look, and how does it work?

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Objectives .Finding new architectural elements and tools for reviving the existing structures in Goose Island .Implementation of spatial diversity in the volume of of ce blocks without demolition of the structural elements. .Designing new plans based on uncertainty, and user’s role.

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1. The Relationship Between Uncertainty and Architecture 1.1 Uncertainty and The Human Nature Uncertainty is at the root of our decision-making every day. We consider a decision certain when we are almost sure about its result or outcome. If humans were certain of everything happening in the future, they would never risk, innovate or experiment.

Uncertainty challenges the foundation of everything: Our beliefs, economy, way of living, and thinking. In this manner, uncertainty is a bene cial condition asking a designer to use his knowledge in architectural design instead of his skills or rules. ( Fig1).

1.2 Sources of Uncertainty In The Process of Architectural Construction In an uncertain situation, We can not wholly identify the users and functions of a building, and The user's spatial needs are constantly changing. In an uncertain context, the problems requiring solutions are in a permanent state of ux. At the start of a new architectural project, we deal with high levels of uncertainty dictated by the task, Users, and social context. (Fig1,2).

1.3 The Need For a Flexible Framework In the current way of architectural design, an architectural project begins with nding the right solutions—solutions for known users and their particular spatial needs. Usually, At the start of each project, We have relationships with users and bene ciaries, giving them consultations, but then architectural construction ends at a speci c time. On the other hand, In an uncertain context, since the spatial needs of users are constantly changing in time, the construction of architecture is never nished, which means that it requires constant revisions by users and architects. In this scenario, the architecture must act as a highly exible framework shaping simultaneously both by users and architects. .

(Fig2,13,14).

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Fig1- Uncertainty Leads to Knowledge Based Behaviour . Uncertainty creates a non routine situation. at the start of a new architectural project we deal with high levels uncertainty dictated by the task, Users, and social context. ( By Daalhuizen, Jaap; Badke-Schaub, Petra; Batill, Stephen )

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Sources of uncertainty in architecture

User’s uncertainty about their spatial needs

Consultation

Fig2-Sources of uncertainty in architecture . In an uncertain situation, We can not completely identify how and by whom a building is going to be used. The users spatial needs is constantly changing and The problems requiring solution is in a permanent state of ux- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Architect’s uncertainty about the right solutions

1.4 The Importance of Design For Uncertainty Every year millions of buildings become demolished as the result of decay and abandonment. Most of the time, the process of decay is linked to incompatibilities and tensions rising in the buildings. Designing buildings based on certainty leads to xed and static architecture unable to change in time, which means that these buildings can not adapt to new users and functions. This way of design helps the linear economy favoring a shorter building lifespan. With the shift towards the circular economy models and attention to environmental issues, many have realized the importance of increasing the lifespan of existing structures through renovation (Fig3). The process of renovation and the strategies used in this process is critical. We can not renew and copy the existing condition of a building and call it a renovation. Renovation is a thoughtful process requiring revisions and reconstructions to make architecture cope with new realities. The goal of each renovation process is to make the existing architectural structures more exible. In this process, both the users and architects play essential roles.(Fig2).

1.5 The Signi cance of the User’s Role in Design For Uncertainty

In architecture, tensions rise due to the incompatibility of the spaces with the new spatial needs of the users (Fig3). The only possible way for architects to deal with uncertainty in architecture is to give users the power to de ne and control the functions of spaces themselves. We need new sets of strategies and tools to empower the user’s role in architecture. Design for uncertainty requires the architect to avoid two things: undermining the user’s role in architecture and predicting the user’s behaviours ( Fig19).

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The Effect of an Unpredictable Force on a Flexible/ Non-Flexible Space

Unpredictable Force/Reality

Non exible/ Non Valuable Space

Incompatibility/ Tension /Lack of Quantity and Quality

Demolition

Unpredictable Force/Reality

Flexible/ Valuable Space

Recon guration/ Renovation

Revision

Fig3-The effect of unpredictable forces on architecture .

Most of the times the process of decay is linked to incompatibilities and tensions rising in the buildings. Designing buildings based on certainty, lead to a kind of xed and static architecture unable to change in time. Meaning that these buildings can not adapt to new users and functions- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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2. Decline of The Chicago Industrial Sites and The Emergence of A New Working Culture

2.1 Chicago School : Building as an instrument of investment The economic growth of the early twentieth century in America, combined with The speed and easiness of using prefabricated steel beams in architectural construction, Has created a kind of style emerging rst in Chicago, and for more than a century spreading in many places around the globe (Fig4,7). But the instructions for designing the buildings of Chicago School would often come from business people rather than architects or ordinary people, and The architecture of the Chicago school was nothing more than a realization of business requirements. Most of the time, architects would accept the conditions imposed by the Speculators. They had limited themselves to producing buildings that should be no more than the logical instruments of investment (Colin Rowe). Because of the result elimination of both architects and people from the process of architectural construction, The architecture of Chicago school gradually declined in time. Today almost a century after the genesis of the Chicago school, the social context of Chicago is fragile, and the population decreases each year (Fig5,6). Many buildings have become abandoned, and many are decaying and waiting to be demolished or saved by business moguls.

2.2 The Monotone And Repetitive Architecture of Chicago The uncertainty is a state dictated to architecture by people and the social context (Fig1). Design for uncertainty is effective only if we put these two essential sources of uncertainty at the heart of our solutions. The monotonous look of the Chicago buildings results from the elimination of users as the primary sources of uncertainty from the process of architectural construction (Fig8). It is not the repetition of the frames making these buildings monotonous (Fig7). Monotony results from applying strict economic rules crippling the architecture from adaptation to various functions and users (Fig8,9,10).

Expecting humans to live in a condition preconceived by architects and Speculators is against the aim of design for uncertainty. We cannot oversimplify and anticipate human desires and actions by giving them a cage rather than space. Man considers a place personal when he imposes his desires and reality on it. If he nds the architecture surrounding him is limiting and damaging him, he leaves it.

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Fig4-Traf c on Dearborn and Randolph, 1909. Chicago at its peak. One of the most inviting cities in the world.

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Fig5-Chicago Theatre in the Loop Area.

Today the delicious urban life of Chicago has disappeared as a result continues population loss since 1950.

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Fig6- Lifeless landscape of Goose Island.

Today empty paces and decaying buildings is the main characteristic of the Goose Island in Chicago- Apple map Street View

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Fig7-Construction of a Tower in Chicago circa 1846.

The economic growth of the early twentieth century in America in combination with The speed and easiness of using prefabricated steel beams, Has created an architectural construction method emerging in Chicago, spreading around the globe for more than a century.

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Fig8- Monadnock building,Perspective. The entire building is covered without any trace of spatial diversity. The strict rules of economics doesn't allow the appearance of any kind of open or semi-open space in a building.

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Fig9 Monadnock building,Plan. The entire building is covered without any trace of spatial diversity.

The strict rules of economics doesn't allow the appearance of any kind of open or semi-open space in a building.

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Fig10-Monadnock Building,Section. When we look at most of the buildings in Chicago, we see positive spaces with minimum voids. The positive space lls the entire Building .The architecture of most of Chicago's buildings is out of balance. There is no place to breathe and no place to connect with natural elements such as air and sunlight.

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Before the emergence of COVID-19, the role and effect of internet-based communications were inconspicuous in our lives. Covid-19 provided us with an unprecedented opportunity to improve the ef ciency of online working. A few months before writing this paper, Twitter’s CEO announced employees would be allowed to work from home forever. Today we are sure that even after the end of Covid-19, many jobs will move to homes and remain there forever. As a result of such a phenomenon, a new working culture is emerging. Today an of ce is not fully occupied, But instead rented for a particular reason at a speci c time. This new reality requires a different approach to designing an of ce building—a new architecture based on uncertainty coming from unknown usages and users.

2.4 The Dilemma of ‘’Form Follows Function’’ And The Importance of Rede ning The Meaning of The Function of Space The famous sentence from Luis Sullivan,‘’ form follows function,’’ was a rational answer to the industrial and economic situation of the early 20 century. The function of the of ce was clear, and there was no place for any other interpretations. Today a new working culture has emerged. Today an of ce is not fully occupied, But instead rented for a particular reason at a speci c time. This new reality requires a different approach towards designing of ce buildings—a new architecture based on uncertainty coming from unknown usages and users. The ‘’Form Follows Function’’ is one of the fundamental pillars of Modern architecture. But since the function of architecture is constantly changing, rethinking the function of architecture is crucial. In a time of great uncertainty, our buildings cannot have a single function anymore (Fig11). Architecture is always in a state of ux; A xed and static form as an architectural entity can not survive in an uncertain context.

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2.3. The Rise of a New Working Culture

The De nition of The Functional Space In An Uncertain Context

Uncertainty

Unpredictable future

Space’s function is to respond to in nite possibilities

Certainty

Predictable and de nitive future

Space’s Function is to respond to one possibility

Function of Space

Fig11-Function of Space. In an uncertain context, The spaces inside an architectural complex does not have single functions anywhere. The space’s function is to respond well to maximum possibilities- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Flexible Space

Non Flexible Space

3. The Need For a Flexible Framework 3.1 Maximising Flexibility and Creation of Architectural Values/Qualities as Two Complementary Strategies to Design for Uncertainty In an uncertain context, the architecture must act as a highly exible framework—the Strategies related to maximizing exibility help the architecture to respond to more possibilities. And the strategies regarding the creation of architectural values/qualities strengthen the architecture against decay (Fig12). Since one of the exibility’s aims is to import the element of time in architecture (Fig13), we have to be sure that an architectural structure could stand in time. Implementation of solutions regarding exibility in a weak architectural structure will not provide a desirable effect. An architectural structure must have enough qualities such as rmness, enough light, Good Ventilation, Good Insulations, easy accessibility, readability, etc. These qualities are the preconditions of reaching exibility in architecture.

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Natural Ventilation and Shading Spatial Diversity Good Insulation

+ Easy Accessibility For All

Separation of Served and Servant Spaces Empowering users to shape the architecture

Firmness

Readability

Quali cations To Provide Before Any Attempts towards Flexibility

Strategies to Make an architectural Structure More Flexible

Fig12-Relationship between Flexibility and Value. The two Strategies of Value Creation and Maximising Flexibility are like two side of a coin. Meaning that creation of values will lead to more exibility and creation of exibility will increase the value of architecture. The combination of these to pillars creates an architecture that has potentials to act as a exible Framework- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Abundance of Light

Architecture as a Flexible Framework

Consultation From Architect

Architecture as a Flexible Framework

A New Flexible Framework

Users Will

Time

The Birth of Architecture

Future

Fig13-Architecture As a Flexible Framework Constantly Changing in Time.

Architecture must work as a Flexible Framework . A Living Complex is shaped both by architects and Users. If the Users Roles become less important tension will rise and leads to demolition of the whole Architectural structure. in the current way of Architecture time is seen as an agent causing decay. In reality exibility in not achievable without importing the element of time in architecture. - by Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig14-Architecture as a exible framework.

A exible architecture is an un nished project.

The functions are unknown and the users de ne their desired function once they enter the building- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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3.2 The Signi cance of Flexibility in Architecture ‘’Flexibility signi es - since there is no single solution that is preferable to all others - the absolute denial of a xed, clearcut standpoint. The exible plan starts out from the certainty that the correct solution does not exist, because the problem requiring solution is in a permanent state of ux, i.e. it is always temporary.” Hertzberger 3.3 Flexibility: an Inherent Ability In Human Beings Human beings are exible creatures. We move about at will, manipulate objects, and manage to operate in a wide range of environments. There was a time, not too long ago in evolutionary terms, when our existence was based on our capacity for movement and adaptability - indeed; it is to this that we owe our survival as a species. After a few thousand years of more or less sedentary life, it could be that exibility is once more becoming a priority in human development and that technological, social and economic changes are forcing, or at least encouraging, a new form of nomadic existence based on global markets, the world wide web, and cheap, fast, transportation.(Robert Kronenburg).

3.4 The Modern Interpretations of Flexibility The strategies regarding exibility are traceable in Modern architecture, and they are mostly related to open plans. The open plan seemed a good system for small living units.

The ability to combine spaces with sliding doors and using minimum walls were tools in the hands of the architects to minimize the size of space and material used in the process of architectural construction. Another attempt of modern architecture was to make architecture pure. ‘’The aspiration in modern architecture is to aspire to a lightness of geometry and minimalism where more and more ‘non-essential’ features are taken away in order to achieve a state of purity. although this creates undeniable beauty, it also meant that people would also be taken away’’ (Fig15). (Robert Kronenburg)

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Fig15- S. R. Crown Hall, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Chicago, 1950 .The aspiration in modern architecture is to aspire to a lightness of geometry and minimalism where more and more ‘non-essential’ features are taken away in order to achieve a state of purity. although this creates undeniable beauty, it also meant that people would also be taken away (Robert Kronenburg)

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Another approaches towards exibility is traceable in the examples from the contemporary architecture of Japan. Toyo Itto has developed a design strategy that had now taken precedence in his works– searching for a uid architecture that only becomes complete once people inhabit and use the building (Robert Kronenburg). He meticulously designs the plan based on the conditions of the site and necessary functions. Then he places a big portion of functionless volume inside his architecture so that the people will nd out how to use it themselves (Fig16). We can trace the same approach in the work of SANAA and Isigami, who were admirers of Itto. Ishigame’s approach towards creating a chaotic and unpredictable plan helps people nd their desired spots inside this architecture (Fig17). This chaotic plan is readable thanks to its lightness and transparency .(Robert Kronenburg).

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3.5 Contemporary Approach Towards Flexibility: The Case of Japan

Fig16- . Matsumoto Peforming Arts Center Matsumoto , Japan 2004 - It is the people who de ne functions for the big portion of functionless volume surrounding the amphitheaters in in the Matsumoto performing arts centre.

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Fig17-Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Japan. Flexibility as a result of an unpredictable and chaotic plan.

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Fig18-Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Japan. Flexibility as a result of an unpredictable and chaotic plan. The plan is readable thanks to its lightness and transparency.

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3.6 Separation of Served From Servant Spaces The separation of served from servant spaces is an action coming from human nature.

We always separate dirty areas from clean, workspaces from sleep, guest spaces from private, etc. But The problem arises when we don’t have enough space and want to have a special place for these dichotomies. The ideal condition would be that we design separate rooms for them, but in reality, we don’t have that much space in a living complex.

Since the human behavior inside served areas is unpredictable(Fig19), the separation of the servant spaces from served spaces aims to free The heart of a plan to make room for more exibility and more spatial possibilities.

3.7 High-tech Architecture At the core of many high-tech buildings is the concept of the "omniplatz". This is the idea that a building and the spaces within it should not necessarily be absolutely de ned, but rather perform a range of desired functions. As such, a room in a high-tech building could be used as a factory oor, a storage room, or a nancial trading center all with minimal re-distribution of structural elements. The external services of a high-tech building, in this understanding of the style, exist solely to make the central space habitable and do not de ne its function (Fig21). This can lead to an effect wherein the maintenance elements of a building can be understood and interpreted without issue, but the function of the interior space is dif cult to guess. ( Colin Davis )

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Design based on Certainty - User’s Behaviour is predictable- Users pick the Shortest path

Design Based un Uncertainty - User’s Path and Behaviour is Unpredictable

Related to Regular Activities : Bath, Cook, toilet,

Related to Irregular Activities : Study, Work, Leisure, Rest

Happens inside servant functions

Happens Inside served functions

Work Work Bath

The path is predictable

Fig19-Servant and served functions. The aim of separation of servant from served spaces is to free The heart of plan to make room for more Flexibility, and spatial possibilities- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Leisure

The Path is unpredictable

Work Bath Bath Work Leisure Work Leisure

Fig20-Separation of Served and Servant Functions. The aim of separation of servant from served spaces is to free The heart of plan to make room for more Flexibility, and spatial possibilities- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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FOSTER + PARTNERS

FOSTER + PARTNERS

Fig21- Servant Spaces as an Outer Shell for Served Spaces. exibility achieved as the result of eliminating all physical barriers in plan, Including columns.

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Fig22-Inland Steel Building Chicago 1957 SOM. The elimination of columns and Separation of servant spaces has created a exible plan. But This plan layout repeats in every oor and resulting to no spatial diversity.

Fig23-Revision on the Plan of an Of ce Block In Goose Island . The Entire plan is Served by attached units containing bathrooms and Elevators.The random pattern of the attached units to facade adds to spatial diversity and different plans in each oor. By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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4. Case Study: The Golshan House In Yazd 4.1 Introduction This chapter aims to discover how a conventional living complex built almost two centuries ago has remained intact while its sole purpose was to provide housing for a family. Without any demolition, in time, this example and many other similar buildings have transformed into Hotels, Of ces, Museums, Cultural Centres, etc. This Incredible Flexibility is possible thanks to spatial diversity, which is missing in most of the buildings in Chicago.

Spatial diversity strengthens the connection with natural elements leading to a healthy life inside a living complex. It is not the presence of decorative arts that makes the Golshan House valuable. The greatness of this house is because of its complex order of spatial arrangement and the hierarchical orders between different spaces. Persian traditional architecture employs various elements and tactics to deal with the harsh climatological situation of Iran. Thickened Walls, Wind catchers, Sunken Courtyards, Mashrabiya (A wall or window That allows light to Enter but blocks Visibility ), Ivans ( Have Similarities to Terrace ) are all signs of awareness about the effects of climate on buildings and users. Without these elements, Man would suffer from a harsh environment and could not enjoy living.

4.2 The Concept of Garden In the most living complex of traditional Persian architecture, the center is a garden, a unique and practical spatial quality in the dry and hot climate of the central plateau of Iran.

The Garden is the dearest space in a culture that encourages people to improve the earth by making gardens (Fig32,25). One can not step into this honored space Without hierarchy; Without passing through a series of in-between spaces and mediators that blocks direct entry (Fig33).

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4.3 Spatial Diversity And the Dualism of Filled And Empty The strategy of spatial diversity is executed in a complex by embedding different size multifunctional rooms with different volumes (Fig25,31). Each space has a function related to activities during a speci c season, and the plan is not fully used during a season. Since there were no mechanical air conditioning systems, the users would move to different parts of a living complex to live in a more suitable place in a speci c season. This process of micro migration inside a living complex creates a dualism. A dualism of lled and empty and a traditional house doesn't consider empty spaces futile. They are necessary for the complete process of living inside architecture during a year.

4.4 Balance Between Positive and Negative Space By creating negative space, spatial diversity's strategy makes a balance in architecture— a balance between negative and positive spaces (Fig25). When we look at most modern buildings in Chicago, we see positive spaces with minimum voids. The positive space lls the entire Building (Fig8). The architecture of most of Chicago's buildings is out of balance.

There is no place to breathe and no place to connect with natural elements such as air and sunlight.

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C C

E A

Fig25-Spatial Diversity as Seen in The Section of Abbasian House.

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B D

A. Closed Space: A place to use during seasons with harsh climate.

In winter we use closed spaces.

B. Vertical Semi- Open Space: A place to gather. Gives more privacy. Used during mild seasons.

C. Horizontal Semi- Open Space: In between space. Joint space.

Create bridge between two extremes: Closed space and open space.

D. Free Open Space: In between space. Independent from surrounding walls.

E. Extended Open space: open spaces in the vicinity of closed spaces.

Fig26-The Five Appearances of Spatial Diversity In Section. - By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig28-Commerzbank Norman Foster . One of the few serious attempts on bringing spatial diversity and break from repetitive oors of Chicago buildings.

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Fig29-Spatial Diversity by implementation of negative volumes in section. - By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Servent Spaces( Storage, Toilets ,etc )

Room ( Raum/ Space ) + Ivan (Terrace)

Darker/ Less Value

Frequently Used Spaces

Fig27-Relationship of a room with light. Room ( Space / Chamber ) in Iranian traditional living complexes doesn't have a prede ned function such as dining, living or bed. Room is a spatial quality. Spaces are de ned by their relationship with the climate and theirs size- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Garden

Brighter/ More Value

4.5 Functionless Spaces Room ( Space / Chamber ) in Iranian traditional living complexes doesn't have a prede ned function such as dining, living, or bed. Room is a spatial quality that is ready to host any activity. Inside a Room, You Eat, Read, Gather, Sleep, Work, etc. This uidity of functions re ects in the name of these rooms. They are named based on the number of doors attached to them (Fig31). The doors are the unique part of these rooms. They function as separators and connectors between different spaces inside a complex (Fig 35,36,37).

4.6 The Four Ivan Plan The Four-Ivan is one of the most ancient architectural plans existing at the heart of the Golshan House (Fig30). There are many reasons behind this particular spatial organization, mostly relating to the culture and climate of the central plateau of Iran. This Architectural organization was developed in Iran for more than two millennia until the early 20 century when the Persian culture and society became unstable under the in uence of western cultures. The Four Ivans (Terraces) cover a garden or a courtyard inside a building complex. Ivan is a semi-open space offering a buffer zone between the rooms and the garden.

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4.7 The Importance of Hierarchical Orders The hierarchy in architecture has always been an essential element. The sequence of reaching the innermost in architecture, which is a transition from public to private, bright to dark, from open to closed, is a necessity for a balanced architecture. Each step in a hierarchical order has a deep meaning, and the spaces related to them have speci c functions (Fig33). Hierarchy puts a mediator between two extreme concepts: Open space and close space. This mediation emerges in many forms, as a semi-open space or an in-between space. This hierarchy creates diversity both in plan and section, which leads to the completion of architecture. In the traditional architecture of Iran, a living complex without proper hierarchy is unstable and unsuitable for human settlement.

Hierarchy of reaching from open space to close space and vice versa + Multifunctional spaces with different volumes in a complex

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Spatial Diversity

Fig30-The Four-Ivan is one of the most ancient architectural plans existing at the heart of the Golshan House. There are lots of reason behind this particular spatial organisation. But it is Mostly deeply related to the culture and climate of the central plateau of Iran. This Architectural organisation was developed in Iran for more than two millennia until the early 20 century when the Persian culture and society became unstable under the in uence of western cultures.

Normally The Four-Ivans (Terraces) covers a garden or a courtyard inside a building complex. Ivan is a semi-open space offering a buffer zone between the rooms and the garden.

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Garden

Ivan - A semi- Open Space

Fig31-The Fluid Functions of The Rooms in Golshan House.

Room ( Space / Chamber ) in Iranian traditional living complexes doesn't have a prede ned function such as dining, living or bed.

Room is a spatial quality that is ready to host any kind of activity.

Inside a Room You Eat, Read, Gather, Sleep, Work, etc. This uidity of functions is also re ected in the name of these rooms. They are named based on the number of doors attached to them. The doors are also an important part of these rooms. They function as separators and connectors between different spaces inside a complex.

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Five Doors Room

Three Doors Room

Two Doors Room

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Fig32-Hierarchy of courtyards. Three courtyards with different sizes each for different types of users and activities. The rst is the biggest for more ceremonial and big gatherings. The medium sized courtyard and the last is the smallest which is the most private and hardest to reach. Each Courtyard captures a part of Sky and on the surface Encloses The Garden. In a living Complex one should never lost his/her connection with natural elements. Courtyards are the central elements of living complex in Iran. Each space around this centre bene ts from pleasant views of the Internal Gardens.

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Transition Narrow Pass / Dark

First View

Arrival / Bright Brighter/ More Value Garden / Paradise / End of the Journey

Fig33-The Hierarchy of Entering to a Building Complex The sequence to reach from an open space to a close space requires different types of in-between spaces which are missing in most of the chicago buildings. These in-between spaces adds to the spatial diversity in a complex

Ivan - Glaze / View

Dalan- Corridor Transition

Hashti- ReceptionStart of the Journey

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Entrance is possible but considered as a bad intention - Small elevation of Rooms from Courtyards Creates A barrier for direct entrance The Main Entrance Routes

Fig34-Hierarchy of Entering the Room. The sequence to reach from an open space to a close space requires different types of in-between spaces which are missing in most of the chicago buildings. These in-between spaces adds to the spatial diversity in a complex.

Storage ( Pastoo ) Ivan - Semi-open space

3 Door Room( PanjDari )- A Served Space - Highest Value 2 door Room( Do-Dari ) - A Servant spaces In-Between Space Closed Space

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Fig35-The Fluid Functions of The Rooms in Iranian traditional living complexes . Room ( Space / Chamber ) in Iranian traditional living complexes doesn't have a prede ned function such as dining, living or bed. Room is a spatial quality that is ready to host any kind of activity. Inside a Room You Eat, Read, Gather, Sleep, Work, etc. This uidity of functions is also re ected in the name of these rooms. They are named based on the number of doors attached to them. The doors are also an important part of these rooms. They function as separators and connectors between different spaces inside a complex

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Fig36-The Fluid Functions of The Rooms in Iranian traditional living complexes . Room ( Space / Chamber ) in Iranian traditional living complexes doesn't have a prede ned function such as dining, living or bed. Room is a spatial quality that is ready to host any kind of activity. Inside a Room You Eat, Read, Gather, Sleep, Work, etc. This uidity of functions is also re ected in the name of these rooms. They are named based on the number of doors attached to them. The doors are also an important part of these rooms. They function as separators and connectors between different spaces inside a complex

Fig37-The Fluid Functions of The Rooms in Iranian traditional living complexes . Room ( Space / Chamber ) in Iranian traditional living complexes doesn't have a prede ned function such as dining, living or bed. Room is a spatial quality that is ready to host any kind of activity. Inside a Room You Eat, Read, Gather, Sleep, Work, etc. This uidity of functions is also re ected in the name of these rooms. They are named based on the number of doors attached to them. The doors are also an important part of these rooms. They function as separators and connectors between different spaces inside a complex

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Fig38-The Aghazadeh Complex In Abarkooh . a conventional living complex built almost two centuries ago has remained intact while its sole purpose was to provide housing for a family. Without any demolition, in time, this example and many other similar buildings have transformed into Hotels, Of ces, Museums, Cultural Centres, etc.

This Incredible Flexibility is possible thanks to spatial diversity, which is missing in most of the buildings in Chicago.

Spatial diversity strengthens the connection with natural elements leading to a healthy life inside a living complex. It is not the presence of decorative arts that makes the Golshan House valuable. The greatness of this house is because of its complex order of spatial arrangement and the hierarchical orders between different spaces.

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Fig39- Abbasian Historical Houses, Kashan,18th Century. By creating negative space, spatial diversity's strategy makes a balance in architecture—a Balance between negative and positive spaces.

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5. Renovation Of An Existing O ce Block in Goose Island Based On The Principles of Design for Uncertainty Intervention Plan 1. The structure and all the frames remain untouched. The only removed parts are nonstructural horizontal surfaces. (Fig 64) 2. The architect implements spatial diversity by creating negative space inside the building and underground. Done by removing some non-structural horizontal surfaces. ( Fig62,63,64) 3. The architect implements the strategy of the Separation of servant spaces from served spaces. It is Done by relocating servant spaces such as the staircase, elevator tower, and toilets from the center of the plan and attaching them to the facades. The attached units are the only xed parts of the building. ( Fig47,48,50) 4. Breaking the repetitive circulation of access to upper oors. Done by attachment of stairs and elevators in different positions on each oor. This strategy creates a different plan on each oor, creating more diverse spaces (Fig 48,56) 5. Adding a dynamic facade system for better control and better climate response. ( Fig 43,44) 6. Implementation of new Separator/Connector elements with small bulk on plan. Sliding Glass panels, Rotating Glass Panels, Accordion Separators, Rotating Shading Panels, Sliding wooden panels all changing by user’s Will. (Fig 45,46)

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Fig40-Location of The Of ce Block In the Goose Island.

Empty Spaces and Decaying buildings is the main characters the Urban Tissue . Apple’s Map

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Fig41-The building as Seen From the Street. Like most of the buildings in Goose island this block looks monotonous and closed to outside. - Apple Map Street View

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Fig42-The Existing Structure As A Result of Repetition of Single Sized Frames. Remodelled structure - By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig43-Addition of a dynamic facade system for better control and better climate response. The replaced facade system consists of two elements. Sliding glass panels, And Rotating Shading System. The Shading Panels Control the light Intensity and visibility- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh 65

Fig44-Gardens on Upper Floors. The entire roof terrace is added to the existing structureBy Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig45-Separators/Connectors . Implementation of new Separator/Connector elements with small bulk on plan. Sliding Glass panels, Rotating Glass Panels, Accordion Separators, Rotating Shading Panels, Sliding wooden panels all changing by user’s Will- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig46-Design for uncertainty requires a exible plan. In an architecture based on principles of designing for uncertainty everything is changeable except the structureBy Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig 47-Separation of servant spaces from served spaces.

The Bathrooms, shafts, and Elevators are attached to the facade in order to make the internal plan more exible and free- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig48-Breaking the routine of vertical Circulation of Elevators. The Entire plan is Served by attached units containing bathrooms and Elevators.The random pattern of attached units adds to spatial diversity and different plans in each oor- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig49-Freeing the Centre of the plan from stairs. The centre of the plan is free from staircase and shafts. The stairs are attached to the facade. The non routine placement of the stairs creates different plans in each oorBy Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig 50-Elevation Of The Main Entrance. The ground oor becomes free, This strategy improve the connection of the buildings to the context, creates spatial diversity on the ground level- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig51-Reorganisation of Stairs Based on Promenade circulation. Spatial diversity emerges by breaking the repetitive vertical circulation at the heart of buildings- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig52-View of The Sunken Courtyard And The Piloti.

The entire ground oor and underground has transformed into active spaces for a better connection with the context- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig53-View of The Sunken Courtyard And The Piloti. The entire ground oor and underground has transformed into active spaces for a better connection with the context- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig 54-View of The Internal Courtyards . The courtyards on upper oor adds to spatial diversity and better connections with natural elements- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig55-View of The Internal Courtyards . The courtyards on upper oor adds to spatial diversity and better connections with natural elements- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig56-The View of The Facade . Taking back the architecture from business men and speculators (the real agents of Chicago school) and giving it to people to decide what to do with it. The result would be anything but not a repetitive and monotonous architecture- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig57-In a context with high levels of uncertainty architecture is always an un nished project.

Construction of architecture never ends as the users constantly change it over time. The plan is not de nitive. It is the user’s role to organise the of plan and give functions to spaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig58- In a context with high levels of uncertainty architecture is always an un nished project. Construction of architecture never ends as the users constantly change it over time. The plan is not de nitive. It is the user’s role to organise the of plan and give functions to spaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig59-Architect’s Footprints on Plan . The only predetermined part is a set of necessary xed routes- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fixed Routes Prede ned by the Architect

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Fig60-Architect’s Footprints on Plan . The only predetermined part is a set of necessary xed routes- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fixed Routes Prede ned by the Architect

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Fig61-Architect’s Footprints on Plan . The only predetermined part is a set of necessary xed routes- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fixed Routes Prede ned by the Architect

Fig62-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig63-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig64-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig65-Spatial diversity as seen in Section . Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig66-Spatial diversity as seen in Section . Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig67-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh 89

Fig68-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing nonstructural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig69-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing non-structural horizontal surfaces- By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig70-Spatial diversity as seen in Section .

Implementation of diversity diversity by creating negative volumes inside the building and underground. This is done by removing nonstructural horizontal surfaces- Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig71-View of the facade - By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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Fig72-View of the facade - By Ahmad Ramezanzadeh

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6. Conclusions The uncertainty is a state dictated to architecture by the people and the social context.

Design for uncertainty is effective, only if we put these to important sources of uncertainty at the heart our solutions. The monotonous look of the Chicago buildings is the result of the elimination of users as the main sources of uncertainty from the process of architectural construction. It is not the repetition of the frames making these buildings monotonous.

Monotony results from applying strict economic rules crippling the architecture from adaptation to various functions and users. Expecting human to live in a condition preconceived by the rules of economics is against the the aspirations of design for uncertainty. We cannot oversimplify human desires and actions by giving them a x cage rather than a space. Man consider a place personal, when he impose his own desires and reality to it. If he nds the architecture surrounding him is limiting and damaging him, he leaves it.

In the new renovation plan for the industrial of ce blocks in Goose Island, each oor is different and changes according to the user’s will. Each oor is like an image of the real ground with its diversity and unpredictability. The result is a more exible, responsive, and adaptive of ce block for the new working culture rising form the new uncertain context.

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7.Bibliography

.Dealing with uncertainty in design practice: issues for designer-centered methodology, Daalhuizen, Jaap; Badke-Schaub, Petra; Batill, Stephen, 2009, https://orbit.dtu.dk/en/ publications/dealing-with-uncertainty-in-design-practice-issues-for-designer-c .Flexibility in architecture and its relevance for the ubiquitous house,Alexander etkovi , https://www.researchgate.net/publication/ 272209516_Flexibility_in_architecture_and_its_relevance_for_the_ubiquitous_house .Flexible Architecture: The Cultural Impact of Responsive Building, Professor Robert Kronenburg .Mathematics of The Ideal Villa and Other Essays, Collin Rowe, MIT Press, 1976 .Davies, Colin, 1929- (1988). High tech architecture. New York, NY: Rizzoli International Publications

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8. Appendix

.Fig1: https://backend.orbit.dtu.dk/ws/portal les/portal/87524494/ds58_9_147.pdf .Fig4: http://www.encyclopedia.chicagohistory.org/pages/200005.html .Fig5: https://www. ickr.com/photos/kenlund/ .Fig7: https://www. ickr.com/photos/internetarchivebookimages/18249937699/ .Fig 8: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monadnock_Building .Fig9: http://www.columbia.edu/cu/gsapp/BT/EEI/HISTORY/history2.html .Fig10: https://www.pca-stream.com/en/articles/the-tall-of ce-building-artisticallyconsidered-48 .Fig 15: https://www.moma.org/collection/works/87381 .Fig16: https://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB12025.pdf .Fig17: https://www.archdaily.com/66661/66661/ishigami-kait-03 .Fig18: https://archinect.com/news/article/150058416/junya-ishigami-imagining-otherarchitectures .Fig21: https://divisare.com/projects/289372-foster-partners-peter-cook-john-donatdennis-gilbert-nigel-young-ken-kirkwood-sainsbury-centre-for-visual-arts .Fig22: https://www.chicagoarchitecture.org/2013/02/14/the-groundbreaking-inlandsteel-building-becomes-fully-appreciated-50-years-later/ oorplan/ .Fig25: https://razheh.com/buildings/‫عباسیان‬20%‫خانه‬ .Fig 28:https://www.pinterest.com/pin/570338740281746530/

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8. Appendix

.Fig30 https://razheh.com/buildings/‫یزد‬20%‫گلشن‬20%‫خانه‬. .Fig31 https://razheh.com/buildings/‫یزد‬20%‫گلشن‬20%‫خانه‬. .Fig32 https://razheh.com/buildings/‫یزد‬20%‫گلشن‬20%‫خانه‬. .Fig33 https://razheh.com/buildings/‫یزد‬20%‫گلشن‬20%‫خانه‬. .Fig34 https://razheh.com/buildings/‫یزد‬20%‫گلشن‬20%‫خانه‬. .Fig35 https://www.tripbama.com/fa/‫ها‬-‫طباطبایی‬-‫خانه‬/‫اصفهان‬/‫گردشگری‬-‫جاذبه‬ .Fig36 https://www.iranhotelonline.com/blog/post-978/‫کاشان‬-‫ها‬-‫عامری‬-‫خانه‬ .Fig37 https://parvazyar.com/‫گاردین‬-‫ابرکوه‬-‫آقازاده‬-‫خانه‬/ .Fig38 https://tatilatearam.com/yazd-2/ .Fig39 https://www.kojaro.com/attraction/7464-‫کاشان‬-‫عباسیان‬-‫خانه‬/

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What does ‘design for uncertainty’ mean? Is it possible to design an architecture when uncertainty has skyrocketed, e.g., without knowing about the function and the use of a building? Can we bene t from an extreme state of uncertainty in favor of architectural planning and design?

We live in a time of Great Uncertainty. Climate change with the rapid development in communication technologies and new transportation methods, all with the emergence of COVID-19, has created a transformational condition at an incredible speed that has deeply challenged and changed our lives. The way we live and how we use and interact with our built environments are changing with an unprecedented frequency and depth.

Living in an uncertain situation may sound unpleasant and desperate. Still, one could bene t from it if he/she sees it as an opportunity to break from routines and old rules to develop new ideas and solutions coping with emerging realities. Starting an architectural project in an uncertain context requires a new approach towards architecture based on ‘possibilities’ instead of ‘certainty’. As the result of the ux of possibilities, a living complex requires maximum exibility. A exible living complex accepts various functions and users who have their own spatial needs. If the users could shape their own spaces, the result would be a dynamic and diverse living complex, unlike typical Chicago buildings based on repeated units and oors.

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