Abstract

The following illustrate three ways of expanding our understanding: Architectural Expression, Traditions, and Decision Making. Architectural Expression is defined as whether a material is real or faux presents a dilemma for the Architect. The real materials are usually no longer available, too expensive, and may be harmful to human health, while the faux materials may present unknown problems and require new untested techniques of fabrication. How to find expression will be the challenge that I will address in the paper. Traditions is how the Architect will be required to expand traditional Western thinking by including Eastern philosophies to fully address a global practice. I will explore where new traditions are needed and outline how old traditions can be modified and made relevant. Decision Making takes both a logical and a creative mind to solve future detailing problems. Just satisfying Codes and Aesthetic values are not enough to guarantee outstanding architectural detailing or great architecture. The application of Lateral Thinking techniques proposed by Edward DeBono can bring the necessary creative insights into the process. Finally, Architectural detailing shall continue to be an important part of the design process when an ordinary building can become Architecture. I will continue to speak out for an Architecture in which the details try to keep those hopes alive.