figure ground, solid void

The graphic figure ground perception is predominantly explored in two-dimensions. When the third dimension is added it becomes a solid void relationship. The idea of layering between a solid and void seems so obvious but is something many of us do not even recognise. 

figure 5

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figure 6
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I read an article on Manuel Aires Mateus at the beginning of the year. He designs using the idea of the void and talks about the understanding of different volumes and their seamless attachment to our experience. The use of negative material takes on new weight with spaces being designed using subtraction of the solid rather than addition. This is evident in many of the practices figure ground diagrams which show spacial relationships and the idea of the 'habitable wall' that exists in many of their projects (fig 5). They often work with pre-existing buildings but unlike Scarpa, instead of using strong detailing to delineate the old and new, Aires Mateus absorbs the old structure into the new. The solid void experience gives the perception of layering rather than the materials themselves. In both the house at Alenquer (fig 6) and at Brejos De Azeitao volumes are created, utilising the old and new structures though neither is given precedence. The homogenisation of materiality serves to strengthen the rhythm of the structure, another concept of layering.

I have not yet explored all ideas concerning ‘layering’ but the myriad of ways in which to understand it depends on what you perceive as important in architecture. This will be built on what you have previously learnt or experienced but hopefully I have given you more information and added another layer of understanding that will be useful in the future.