The Crucial Conversation Between Drawing and Reality: Reoccupying the Undesired

Abstract

The particular connection that exists between the public and abandoned buildings is that the built environment is often unseen and becomes “leftover” in many urban areas. Dilapidated buildings become spaces used by those who fall outside of the usual controls of ownership, and can become the site for illicit activities such as squatting, graffiti, forced entry and internal damage. Many difficulties arise when exploring the potential fate of undesired and abandoned buildings, as differing qualities and elements of buildings gain appreciation from some, and disapproval from others. What may appear necessary to preserve by many may be completely opposed by others. Who desires these buildings to remain as they are and who are they serving? This thesis aims to provide a method to approach the preservation of abandoned buildings as a collective and cooperative activity. In order to inform an architectural approach, a methodology must be developed to actualise the distinctive elements that characterise and distinguish individual abandoned buildings, while the actual perception of desirability cannot be equitably defined. The methodology that this thesis will apply is one of repetitive and conversational drawing. The two parts – abandoned building and drawing – are brought together through a developed methodology and exploration of drawing techniques, which can illuminate the potential of the abandoned space. Using a variety of hand-drawing techniques deeply influenced by existing works, and especially the work of Perry Kulper, this thesis uses a personal drawing language and methodology to inform a reactionary architectural approach that seeks to reestablish valuable and useful abandoned spaces in the city of Auckland, New Zealand. The bridge between drawing and reality is a crucial conversation that is established through a specific personal language. The objective of this thesis is to inform an architectural approach through drawing, to sort and accumulate information, test ideas and settle alternative solutions… To burrow into the very core of the design issue surrounding the resurrection of buildings that have been consigned to the margins of the built environment.