The paradigm of complexity in architecture after 1966: conceptions of architectural complexity through project descriptions in international magazines

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Bibliographic Details
Title: The paradigm of complexity in architecture after 1966: conceptions of architectural complexity through project descriptions in international magazines
Authors: Eduard Hauska, Masaru Otsuka, Shin-ichi Okuyama
Source: Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, Vol 0, Iss 0, Pp 1-19 (2025)
Publisher Information: Taylor & Francis Group, 2025.
Publication Year: 2025
Collection: LCC:Architecture
LCC:Building construction
Subject Terms: complexity, contemporary architecture, design theory, criticism, robert venturi, Architecture, NA1-9428, Building construction, TH1-9745
Description: Taking its starting point from Robert Venturi’s seminal work Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture (1966), this research explores the evolution of architectural thought through the lens of complexity—a concept frequently used in contemporary discourse. It explores, too, complexity’s role within the Post-modern movement, not only as its underlying concept but also as one that reflects broader shifts in architectural culture to this day. The research investigates conceptions of complexity featured in contemporary architects’ project descriptions published in six internationally renowned magazines—Architectural Record, The Architectural Review, Domus, L’Architecture d’Aujourd’hui, A+U, and El Croquis—between 1966 and 2023 and considers how complexity has been understood by architects and critics, both on its own terms and in relation to architectural production and discourse. By analyzing diverse interpretations and approaches to complexity, the research seeks to address the lack of a common understanding of the term, exploring the premise that Venturi’s principles of complexity remain relevant and reflect a continuing desire for a holistic architecture of depth and pluralism.
Document Type: article
File Description: electronic resource
Language: English
ISSN: 1347-2852
Relation: https://doaj.org/toc/1347-2852
DOI: 10.1080/13467581.2025.2573889
Access URL: https://doaj.org/article/a1353bb480424ffb92148cf55705be14
Accession Number: edsdoj.1353bb480424ffb92148cf55705be14
Database: Directory of Open Access Journals
Description
Abstract:Taking its starting point from Robert Venturi’s seminal work Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture (1966), this research explores the evolution of architectural thought through the lens of complexity—a concept frequently used in contemporary discourse. It explores, too, complexity’s role within the Post-modern movement, not only as its underlying concept but also as one that reflects broader shifts in architectural culture to this day. The research investigates conceptions of complexity featured in contemporary architects’ project descriptions published in six internationally renowned magazines—Architectural Record, The Architectural Review, Domus, L’Architecture d’Aujourd’hui, A+U, and El Croquis—between 1966 and 2023 and considers how complexity has been understood by architects and critics, both on its own terms and in relation to architectural production and discourse. By analyzing diverse interpretations and approaches to complexity, the research seeks to address the lack of a common understanding of the term, exploring the premise that Venturi’s principles of complexity remain relevant and reflect a continuing desire for a holistic architecture of depth and pluralism.
ISSN:13472852
DOI:10.1080/13467581.2025.2573889