Through the roof : how can the architectural element – the roof – mediate climatic conditions in a New Zealand context and produce a more efficient, culturally relevant and tectonically expressive building?

Abstract

The architectural element – the roof – is the subject of this research project. Whilst the roof serves a strong practical function by providing physical shelter, it also serves certain ‘felt’ functions. Rich in symbolic meanings, the roof has been employed across a variety of cultures and times, to give importance to spaces below. It has also been suggested that the roof helps establish a ‘sense of place’, as it is the element that separates sky and ground. This sky-ground relationship will be explored further throughout this project, thus introducing an underlying metaphysical theme. The issue placelessness remains topical in New Zealand amidst trends towards more globalized architectural practices, and where buildings of a modernist style are in abundance. These modernist buildings favor a universal language, over local expression.

The project is located within the Taupo Domain (a.k.a. Tongariro Domain), an area rich in local history and contextual issues. This abundance of local issues offers various avenues for design and an expression of this place will be architecturalised through the design of a tectonic roof. Research findings will help develop a brief for the design of a Taupo Art Center which celebrates local art works and supports local artists.