Today architecture bares a metaphysical hollowness. Devoid of any true meaning it is decadent, disguised behind shiny facades and the sickly comfortable interior furnishings of a complacent bourgeoisie who are sedated and nihilistic. In this crisis of purpose, the thesis seeks to find existential meaning for the author and for contemporary architecture, exploring the theory of Renato Rizzi to rebuild architectural practice from its etymological roots while reflecting on the core values that establish ones identity in a globalized world. The question central to this investigation is: what potential does architecture have to be a vessel of experimentation towards the rediscovery of meaning in this world?
Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Architecture (Professional) degree, The University of Auckland, 2019.
© Callum Ireland, 2019.