Building with the end in mind
Free to all members
€10 for non-members
€5 for student s& social rate
Payable at the entrance
Reservation necessary
In collaboration with:
With the support of:
Aaron Lapeirre
Everything is finite, or temporary, that goes without saying, but how often do we consciously think about that end? How do we shape it? What does it mean for us, and in architecture?
In collaboration with Timelab, we explore the meaning of ‘the end’ in architecture, and for ourselves.
First, we listen to Frederique Hermans of a2o who takes us through the project for Timelab from his perspective – which began as early as the search for a possible site. We sense how strong design choices combined with a kind of open aesthetics of temporality help ensure the openness and transdisciplinarity of Timelab’s operation. So is the project now finished? And how does a project go from concept to ‘end’ in the practice of a2o?
a2o
Aaron Lapeirre
a2o
After learning about a2o’s work and the project for Timelab in particular, we dive deeper into the idea of ‘end’ with philosopher Volkmar Mühleis. He takes us into the thinking of Japanese philosopher Yamauchi Tokuryū, for whom space is an integrated part of thinking. In which, according to his interpretation of the tetralemma, something can be itself or something else, be both at the same time or be neither. Using these four parameters, Mühleis explores the concept of the end in relation to architectural practices between Japan and Europe, contemporary and traditional. In doing so, he relates spatial thinking to concepts considered metaphysical in the West – the end as emptiness.
Volkmar Mühleis
Volkmar Mühleis
Volkmar Mühleis
We will close the evening with a short exercise, exploring what ‘the end’ can mean for each of us. Evi Swinnen (Timelab), Volkmar Mühleis and Frederique Hermans (a2o) will discuss their perceptions of time and finality, and you too will be invited to question your thinking. Using simple exercises moderated by experienced coach Caitlin Walker, for a moment of insight, curiosity and connection. What do we see when we think the end? What does this mean for the way we engage in a project? Can we build with ‘the end in mind’?
Afterwards, Timelab’s building can be freely visited and the bar will be open.
a2o