For ARC 651, the research by design unit, the topic that was explored was ‘Permanence in Architecture: A Critique of Rem Koolhaas’. The aim of this topic was to investigate the works and theories of Rem Koolhaas, and his practice OMA, to try and grasp a more informed understanding of permanence in architecture, specifically related to Koolhaas.

To begin with, a lot of research was undertaken on works that Koolhaas did either by himself or with OMA. These included the Venice Architecture Biennale 2014, which he curated, and writings such as Junkspace and Delirious New York, amongst other buildings and exhibitions.

The making aspect of the unit was first realised when studying Koolhaas’ Kunsthal in The Netherlands. It was compared and contrasted to other buildings of his, and the plans, sections and elevations were researched in much detail. Traditional Dutch architecture was investigated, and the concept between permanence and new design explored.

Kunsthal was chosen to be the building to be experimented with due to its fascinating plans and sections, so a range of methods were used for the experimentation process. Collages were explored, particularly Beniamino Servino’s work which he created for the Venice Architecture Biennale 2014. Inspiration was taken from this, and collages were then created to see Kunsthal in a different way, with more traditional Dutch features. These designs were then created on AutoCAD to provide new elevations, as well as a rendered sketchup model, and a real model. This large range of experimental methods meant that more things could be tried out, and the final outcome was a very interesting, remodelled Kunsthal, providing permanence in architecture. To accompany this design work, a 5000 word dissertation was also completed, to aid the designing process.