Implications of Robert Venturi's theory of architecture

摘要

Beginning with a functional program, the rational design method adopted by modernist architects took cognizance of neither cultural meaning nor context. Although criticized for these shortcomings by post-modern theorists, no means of introducing such concerns into the planning process has ever been proposed. This essay sets out a possible procedure ? based on the ancient theory of rhetoric ? that addresses these matters first, before turning to functional considerations. Its virtue is that it can be employed while otherwise leaving intact the prevailing method of design development.