Poetic robustness in detail: towards a tectonic culture of building

Abstract

In building production, the term ‘detail’ is generally used to identify a construction joint, intended to resolve structural, technical and environmental assembly of building systems, elements and materials. An ‘architectural detail’, on the other hand, is a notion that dwells on formal elucidations and experiences, in addition to the mere pragmatics of building assemblage. Within the local discourse of architecture, how-ever, there is little or no discussion about the ability of architectural details to breed a constructive culture of building, which can resist the failure of the local building output, both formally as well as technically. By referring to seminal literature, building observations, detail analysis and practice-based interviews, this research explores the need to establish a local culture of building that views ‘detailing’ as a fundamental intention of building construction, thereby responding to both practical and poetic expectations of architectural design. In particular, the study explores the notion of ‘tectonic culture’ as an embodiment of ‘practical poetics’ that responds to ideas, customs and principles of a ‘way of building’ determined by social practices, know-how and intelligence. Using the idea of 'tectonic culture’ as a 'tool’ to evaluate how details generate poetry in architecture, this study questions if an alternative position on ‘architectural detail’ would allow local practitioners a better technical and creative platform to respond to the escalating demand for robust building.