For an Architecture of Reality*Michael Benedikt

What is the reality Michael Benedikt writes about?

He discusses architecture as a sort of symbolic language that creates reality, whether physically tangible or not. Benedikt breaks down the four elements that define reality or "realness".

Benedikt describes degrees of reality in architecture as: Architecture of Dreams, Architecture of Games, Architecture of Illusions, Architecture of Enactments and Architecture of Jokes. What are some example buildings that fall under these categories?

Architecture of Dreams - "Emilio's Folly"

Architecture of Games - "The Manhattan Transcripts"

Architecture of Illusions - Mural, "Kroger Building"

Architecture of Enactments - "University of Houston Architecture Building"

Architecture of Jokes - "Arquitectonica"

Benedikt describes “direct esthetic experience of the real” as being moments without symbolism. Where in our environment does symbolism occur and where in our environment is symbolism absent? What is an example of this situation?

It can be argued that anything considered "architecture" carries some form of symbolism. On the other hand, spaces that lack real purpose or significance, carry little or no symbolism. An example of insignificant space would be a bike shed or parking lot.

Symbolism can be found in religious architecture, federal buildings and institutions, urban architecture, health care facilities etc. 

Although Benedikt’s position pulls examples from the 70‘s and 80‘s to illustrate that an architecture of reality is polar to the post-modern architecture movement, this condition continues to exist today. Where in the city would be examples of an architecture of reality and post-modern architecture?

Utilitarian systems like sewers or traffic lights could be considered the architecture of reality that he discusses. Post modern would be something like the strip in Las Vegas NV.

The four components that define the “realness” of an architecture for reality are: presence, significance, materiality, and emptiness (in two categories). How do these components relate to architecture? and What are some examples of architectural elements that make up these conditions?

1. Presence - stands for itself, independent, exists with purpose. Should never "apologize" for being where it is.

2. Significance - A building is significant if it has a special meaning for someone. If someone feels that it has a defined purpose or symbolic meaning.

3. Materiality - Does the material used in the construction of the building accurately reflect the visible materials of the space? Affixing a prefabricated brick facade to the exterior of a concrete and steel building would not be an honest representation of the building's materiality.

4. Emptiness - Defines the reality through the use of negative space. Purposeful and careful placement of solids to leave a spacial void that acts as a medium for movement.