Günümüz Mimarlık Ortamına Geçmişten Katkılar: Pessac, CIAM ve Pruitt-Igoe

Abstract

While evaluating the postmodern architecture today, the architectural theory is trying to define it with new theories, or even with ‘after theories’. It is not always possible to review the past, and re-evaluate events happened years ago, as by means of technology everything is developing very rapidly. But, some occasions which have a special place in architectural history, like Pessac housing, which is designed according to CIAM themes, or Pruitt- Igoe settlement, can be re-evaluated and contribute to the architectural environment today. Both designs are established in different geographies, evaluated differently in time, even the demolishment of Pruitt-Igoe was referred to the ‘death of modern architecture’ by Jencks. Architectural designs from today can face the same final in future, when circumstances change. Therefore, while evaluating the architectural environment today, it can be useful to remember the past and take some lessons. The aim of this study is to remember those three important events of modern architecture, and initiate a discussion about their possible contributions to the today’s environment and the possibility of being ‘innocent’ of Pruitt- Igoe.