Etics Behind the Duality between Structure and Ornamentation

Abstract

The differences between the concepts of ‘structure’ (and thus concepts of ornamentation) within the professions of architecture and structural engineering create non-ethical differences to arize between their value systems. The objective of this paper is to analyse the various meanings and interpretations of the concepts of `structure` and `ornamentation` within these professions, in order to understand the origins and underlying significance of these value differences. However, this analysis addresses both the conceptual and physical evidence of these differences, which occur in buildings and structures. A literature survey has been done in order to identify and establish the variations of these concepts in Gothic cathedrals, 18th century iron bridges, and modern framed buildings. In addition to these, twenty contemporary buildings with ‘suspended glass systems’ have been analysed in order to reveal the current concepts of `structure` and `ornamentation.` These concepts of ‘structure’ and ‘ornamentation’ are then further interpreted by relating them to similar concepts within the field of the philosophy of ethics. The outcome of the paper demonstrates that the basis of the conflict between the architectural and structural engineering professions emanates from a more elevated contest vis a vis the natural order of things and human culture.