| Title |
A Study on the Meaning of Function as an Architectural Concept |
| Keywords |
Architectural Concept ; Use ; Function ; Functionalism |
| Abstract |
Introduced into architecture around 19th century in the place of ‘use’ or ‘utility’, the word 'function' is regarded as one of the most commonly used term in architectural context. The introduction of the biological term 'function' results in two important contribution in architectural theory: linkage with nature and social responsibility of architect. Throughout history, nature has occupied unquestionable status to be imitated in painting and sculpture. Proportion had been more valuable linkage assuring the similarity of nature and architecture than shape or form. Losing the practical linkage to nature with introducing metric system, architecture began to relate itself with nature by how it functions rather than how it looks. Machine as artifacts resembling natural objects in a way how it functions was an interrelating medium between nature and architecture. Whereas 'use' emphasizes the user to make use of something, 'function' is a word enabling the subject make something to be changed. With the introduction of function architects began to assume their role of social modifier as the buildings they design function in specific ways they designate other than be passively used by users. |