“Matrixes of tradition in the work of Renzo Piano”, in AlSayyad N. (ed.) (2008), Interrogating Tradition. Epistemologies, Fundamentalisms, Regeneration, Practices,

Present advances in science and technology are contributing
to the homologation of socio-cultural identities and the built environment.
In particular, designs based on functional zoning and
the widespread use of industrial materials and construction techniques
have resulted in the standardization of living spaces and
their social and environmental degradation and delegitimization.
Interrogating tradition in present architectural practice seems
a viable strategy for the creation of socially and culturally legitimized
living spaces. Interrogating tradition means being
inspired by its paradigmatic lesson of environmentally and culturally
appropriate built form, which communicates meaning and
results from man-environment interplay.
By identifying the matrixes of tradition through theoretical
reflections and analyses of case studies, this paper shows how a
critical reinterpretation of traditional cultures, architectural typologies,
and technologies is a crucial strategy in the design of sustainable
built form.
The first part of the paper interprets tradition in relation to
design practices oriented toward environmental and energy efficiency.
It adopts an “explorative” approach through an examination
of selected works by Renzo Piano. These provide a multilevel
technological and environmental interpretation of tradition: form
and language; technical creativity in the service of energy and
resource saving; integration of traditional with innovative materials;
design and construction conceived as a permanent workshop.