Narrative → Panopticon
2022 FALL
Program: International Court
Instructor: Elizabeth Kamell
Site: NewYork
Individual Project
Architecture is not just a physical structure but also an abstract representation of power. From the perspective of architecture, the design, layout, and decoration of buildings respond to the social, political, economic, and cultural context. Throughout history, various architectural styles and types have reflected the authority and status of ruling classes in specific eras. For instance, the columned architecture of ancient Greece embodied the public spaces and collective decision-making of the democratic regime, while the grandiose bathhouses and arenas of the Roman Empire highlighted the opulence and authority of imperial rulers.
In this design project, I attempt to created a space that represents the modern system of power. Based on the theory of the panopticon, re-examine and uncover spatial power relations using symbolic methods. Rather than being merely a building, it is more akin to a schematic representation of power mechanisms reduced to an ideal form. It symbolizes a transparent society where the operation of power is clearly visible, and everyone, regardless of their status, can perceive this system. Their vision is unobstructed, allowing for public scrutiny and interaction of viewpoints.