Figuration before form, diagrams and form drawing in the work of Louis I. Kahn

Abstract

Through exploring some of Kahn’s works, the essay aims to demonstrate the deep connection between drawing-diagrams and the realized work, where form materializes through the figuration of its simple patterns. To clarify this potential for listening, the essay addresses the dimension of drawing in the work of Louis I. Kahn. In his design research, the architect understands and uses the interpretive power of diagrams, which, in the book Louis I. Kahn: Conversations With Students (1998), calls “form drawing”. A thought-form considered fundamental to the Estonian architect, who from the 1960s onward would use this diagrammatic tool as a measure for investigation in defining potential forms of architecture.

Keywords

• louis i. kahn
• diagramma
• form drawing
• figurazione
• forma