Surfaces

Abstract

Surfaces is a collection of four individual essays which focus on the characteristics and tactile qualities of surfaces within a variety of perceived landscapes. Each essay concentrates on a unique surface theme and purpose; each essay offers observations and speculations with regard to surface qualities; and each essay is grounded in case studies which accentuate these surface qualities. Although the four individual essays stand alone in their theme and message, the consideration of all four essays yields a greater understanding of the concept of "surface" as a single entity . Conclusions and observations are reinforced through an analysis of building materials, photography and media, fashion, city form, and historic preservation. Among the themes investigated in this thesis are: the "Communication" of surface image (the influence of high- technology photo-media upon our surface values and expectations - allowing us total control over any scene, material, or message); the "Permanence" and production of surfaces (the need for modem materials to retain their surface qualities, regardless of age, wear, or environmental abuse - and our changing expectations of these surfaces); surface "Veneer" (the tendency for all materials to become increasingly thin "veneers" as a result of modern surface fabrication processes); and surface "Preservation" (our increasing awareness of the cultural value of historic surfaces - and the inconsistencies of our existing preservation philosophies). The intention of this thesis is to observe changes in our perceptions and expectations of our physical environment - and hypothesize the relationship between these expectations and the materials and methods used to create the built environment. As technological innovations create new forms of surface expression, there is a corresponding change in our expectations and perceptions of the physical environment. This thesis will investigate the implications and repercussions of these changing expectations, and speculate their influence upon the future of surface - in a world which places increasing value in surface rather than substance.