The theory of architecture is nearly always taught and studied through a Eurocentric perspective, with the main focus on Western architectural traditions and theories. However, taking into account new perspectives on architectural theory by making them non-European is crucial for the widening of our knowledge of architecture.
The non-European architectural traditions like the ones found in Asia, Africa, and the Americas, provide unique perspectives on the relationship between architecture, culture, and environment. Accordingly, Japanese traditional architecture focuses on harmony with nature and simplicity of form, expressing Buddhist Zen principles.
However, African architecture is mainly focused on communal living and organic materials which are the symbols of cultural values and social structure of the local communities. Through this examination of non-European architectural traditions, we get insights into the different ways they perceive architecture and how culture affects the built environment.
Challenging Eurocentrism in Architectural Discourse
Eurocentrism prevails in architectural discourse which results in the discrediting of the non-European architectural traditions and viewpoints. Western-centric biases are usually reflected in the preference for Western architectural styles as well as theories as the only standard for comparison. This helps to form a hierarchy that considers European design the best or the most advanced while making non-European architectural traditions appear as the “other” or the “exotics.”
Overcoming Eurocentrism needs to recognize the contributions to architectural theory and practice of non-European cultures, as well as challenging the universal validity of Western architectural norms. Not only by downplaying the Eurocentric views but also by involving the architectural traditions from all over the world, we can build a dialogue that will be more inclusive and equal in the architectural field.
Reimagining Architecture: Beyond Western Paradigms
Traditionally, Western architectural paradigms led the discourse on design principles, materials, and aesthetics worldwide. Nevertheless, they may not be always effective in non-Western cultures. Redesigning architecture means freeing oneself from the shackles of Western theories and adopting various traditional ways of building that are based on local cultures, climates, and ideas. For instance, in areas with a hot climate, classical styles of architecture frequently strive for natural ventilation, shading, and thermal mass to deal with harsh environmental conditions.
Through incorporating local customs and practices into their designs, architects develop buildings that are not only environmentally sustainable but also culturally reflective and tailored to fit the particular needs of the community.
Case Studies: Non-European Architectural Theories in Practice
Comparing case studies with projects of non-European architecture beyond Europe will provide specific instances of how non-European architectural theories are put into action. As Aga Khan Award for Architecture has acknowledged many projects that contribute to sustainable and innovative designs that are rooted in non-European contexts.
From the restoration of old earthen structures in Iran to the building of bamboo schools in Bangladesh, these projects show that architecture is universal and culture-specific at the same time. These case studies can be used as a fertile source of inspiration and knowledge, and allow architects to explore alternative approaches to architectural theory and practice that are more sustainable culturally, socially, and environmentally.
Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom
Indigenous people over the world have accumulated knowledge for many years on sustainable building practices, resource management as well as space arrangement. This precious knowledge preserved through oral traditions may lead to the emergence of creative solutions to modern issues such as climate change or urbanization.
As an illustration, indigenous Australians have kept land management techniques that help to promote biodiversity and ecological sustainability and these principles can be applied in architectural designs so that the built environment becomes environmentally sensitive. Architects can add traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples to the architectural theory and practice.
Intersectionality in Architecture: Gender, Race, and Culture
The architectural world deals with gender, race, and culture in a complicated way that leads to those who take part in the designing process, whose voices are heard, and whose needs are prioritized. Traditionally, architecture has been a male-dominated field. Many women and minority architects run into issues entering the field and advancing due to barriers.
On the other hand, architecture reproduces and reinforces societal inequalities, and usually, the communities in the margins suffer the consequences of bad urban design and infrastructure. Addressing intersectionality in architecture requires acknowledging and undermining discriminatory and potentially harmful systems, fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry, and designing spaces that are inclusive, equitable, and bring people together.
Through using intersectionality, architects can develop spaces that enable social justice and inclusion which show the different stories and identities of people who live in these built environments.
Towards a Global Architectural Discourse
The decolonization of architectural theory is one of the most important steps on the way to a truly worldwide communication that appreciates different cultures, promotes cross-cultural dialogue, and creates cooperation across borders. Recognizing and appreciating non-European points of view shall amplify the architects’ understanding of architecture as a universal human phenomenon beyond geographical borders.
A global viewpoint offers architects the chance to be inspired by a diversity of cultural backgrounds, historical contexts, and environmental conditions hence creating more innovative and site-specific designs. In addition, a global architectural dialogue enables architects to deal with pressing global issues such as climate change, rapid urbanization, and social inequality through collaborative and interdisciplinary ways that make use of the knowledge and creativity of people belonging to communities from every corner of the world.
Concluding Everything
In conclusion, decolonizing the architectural theory might be attained only through a profound approach transformation—from European-centrism to a more inclusive and global understanding of architecture as a universal phenomenon. This can be done through exploring non-European architectural traditions, challenging Eurocentric bias, incorporating intersectionality, and addressing contemporary societal challenges and uncertainties.
Decolonization of architectural theory is not only an academic process but a moral duty with which the architect must come to terms with the aftermaths of colonialism, racism, and inequality in the built environment. The architects can be the trailblazers embracing diversity in architectural theory creating the pathway to a better, more equitable, sustainable, and culturally rich future for everyone.
References:
- Brady, R. (2018) How architectural theory distances people from design, ArchDaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/903947/how-architectural-theory-distances-people-from-design (Accessed: 25 April 2024).
- Chang, J.-H. (2014) Non West Modernist Past: On Architecture and modernities, Academia.edu. Available at: https://www.academia.edu/1089503/Non_West_Modernist_Past_On_Architecture_and_Modernities (Accessed: 25 April 2024).
- What defined 19th-century European architecture? (2023) TheCollector. Available at: https://www.thecollector.com/19th-century-architecture-europe/ (Accessed: 25 April 2024).
