Human knowledge, cumulative in nature, is constantly expanding and expanding. This has led to the fact that specialisation is common, even essential, in many different disciplines. Technicians and scientists cannot cover the vast field of knowledge in their area of work and must concentrate on specific parts in order to deepen and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
One of the disciplines in which this phenomenon occurs is precisely architecture. However, architecture, by its very nature, needs to coordinate different areas of knowledge – structures, interior design, landscaping, urban planning, etc. – in both the design and construction phases. Therefore, there are two general ways of approaching architecture: as a whole that integrates particular knowledge, or as a superposition of disciplines that form that particular knowledge.
On the one hand, the first idea, that architecture is a global and integral knowledge of all the processes involved in the design and execution of a building, allows for hierarchisation and effective coordination. However, for architecture conceived as ‘construction engineering’, the works are the result of the transversal collaboration of different engineering and disciplines.
Both perspectives have their advantages. The first model encourages a global vision of projects, which facilitates a smoother integration between the different elements of design and construction. On the other hand, the second concept, specialisation, allows for detailed and focused design in specific areas, which is especially beneficial in complex projects.
Therefore, in large-scale projects, the involvement of multiple architects, each with a specific role in the various phases of the project, is essential. However, in smaller projects, it is essential to have a figure with sufficient comprehensive knowledge to carry out all the stages, therefore guaranteeing a coherent and well-executed final result.
For all these reasons, it is essential to maintain a holistic approach to architectural study plans. In this way, professionals are trained with a broad vision and comprehensive skills, and subsequent specialisation in areas of interest or need is facilitated. And all without losing sight of the importance of a global knowledge that favours integration and coherence in architectural design.
By Pablo Vidal, senior architect in the Architecture Department of Amusement Logic
Images: @Freepik
