In architecture the problematic of retrieval, repair & re-use is frequent : why not apply the same design logic to everyday objects ‘fallen out of use’ either due to changes in taste, materials unavailable to repair them, or absence of resources and expertise to do so ? Setting aside expectancies of perfection, the exercise proves stimulating, makes for healthy employment of goods & free time, reducing the impact of waste, which has become, amongst others, an imperative urgency.
Thematically related to Marcel DUCHAMP’s (albeit paradoxical) notion of objets rédimés, that he baptized Readymades, the act of hijacking coherently conceived pieces (of former use and suitable investment) into a new context, with altered meanings therefore, is clearly of consequence for semiologists and philosophers. Personally I’m interested in the mind-broadening aspects that the habit can induce.
Some concrete applications of the principle in my own work :
Hartfield Rd, Wimbledon, 1976
- shoe-last as sculpture
- fire-grate as fruit bowl
- wall-hangings
Parisian apartment, 1987
- spirit level as doorway ‘pediment’
- the property’s original windows recycled as joinery façade to technical installations (art panels by DN & GB, mouldings, mirrors & finishing by CMAS)
Former farm buildings, Nanterre, 1994
- preservation of old hayloft door (at specific request of client’s spouse) & portcullis railing solution (potential pot-plant garden) to meet security compliance
Atelier in Nice, 2005
- long sofa remodeled as daybed with large cushions (slats added behind replace the formerly upholstered back)
- adaption of 19th C. opal glass conical shades as up-lighters
Parisian apartment, 2003-2006
- restoration of original oak windows (40 hours per window) and addition of inner shutters
- retrieval of condemned fireplace as technical cupboard and flue as ‘chimney effect’ static ventilation
Parisian apartment, 2016
- non-replacement of original oak windows and addition of a second inner sash (potentially radiant)
- retrieval of condemned fireplace as niche for inset drawer unit
- relining of extant (but unusable) fireplace as potential storage (bottles etc.)
Related pages / pages apparentées / pagine apparentate :
Art, crafts & DIY / Art, artisanat et système D / Arte, artigianato e fai-da-te
Architecture & planning / Architecture et urbanisme / Architettura e urbanistica
Design & bespoke furnishings / Design et mobilier spécifique / Design e arredo specifico
OPUS INCERTUM : Take Your Pick / Faites Votre Choix / Scegliete Voi
opus incertum 