Culture Architecture

In this challenging interpretation of design education and its effect on design process and products, Argentinean scholar Alfonso Corona-Martinez emphasizes the distinction between an architectural project, created in the architect’s mind and materialized as a set of drawings on paper, and the realized three-dimensional building. Corona-Martinez demonstrates how representation plays a substantial role in determining both the notion and the character of architecture, and he traces this relationship from the Renaissance into the modern era.

Is it time to finally visit Helsinki? This appreciation piece focuses on the cultural communication disclosed in the 21st-century architecture of Helsinki, Finland. As urban landscapes continue to redefine their image, postmodern architecture has signaled a shift back to Finnish ideals. A strong bond to nature is evident, with an emphasis on the cultural traits, values, and communication practices that the citizens of Helsinki hold dear. These messages implanted within the recently constructed masterpieces of the city are explored as they uncover meaning relevant to our evolving world.