Activation of compact architectural systems. The construction of the diagonal projection mechanism in Adolf Loos’ work

Abstract

The activation of compact architectural systems, built by attached spatial units –specialized, qualified, related to each other within a defined and regular container– requires specific tools capable of supplying the lack of dynamic, interstitial and communication spaces. The construction of Loos’ Raumplan implies the development of different relational mechanisms, based on the use of some of these tools. Among them, we can highlight one of great importance for its capacity to activate the interior space. Its construction arises from the evolution of fluctuation and frontality operations inherited from the architectural tradition and it gradually incorporates focal alterations that lead to the diagonal projection. Tools for the qualification of this diagonal perceptual mechanism are studied through a graphic analysis developed by the author.

Keywords

• adolf loos
• diagonal
• frontalidad
• raumplan
• sistemas compactos
• herramientas arquitectónicas
• proyección
• observador
• rufer
• müller