Groundscape Architecture Design Lab, re-thinking cities underground

Overview

Groundscape is a neologism resulting from the combination two words: ground and landscape.

As a new field of research for architects, designers, and urban planners, this unheard-of form of subterranean architecture explores and investigates the universe of possibilities that lie beneath the surface of our cities.

The idea of Groundscape proposes a different way of experiencing the earth underground by offering a resilient, responsible, aesthetic, and durable response to the many urban challenges our cities face today.

Founded by prof. Dominique Perrault in 2013 at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) the SubLab is an academic Think Tank and multidisciplinary research platform dedicated to the investigation of the underside of our cities.

Alongside SubLab instructors Richard Nguyen, Ignacio Ferrer Rizzo, and Juan Fernandez Andrino you will participate in an unprecedented design oriented online course, where you will acquire the fundamental skills necessary for the conception of your own underground project.

Since 1985 Prof. Dominique Perrault has designed more than 55 Groundscape projects over a period of almost 30 years.

Syllabus

The course is structured along a series of 5 episodes divided into different Acts, including keystone Expertise visits, diverse Experiences, and Groundscape Talk lectures. In parallel to the talks and visits you will participate in the Underground Design Studio, a design oriented studio where you will develop your own personal Groundscape experience.

Episode 1: The Groundscape Manifest

Introduction to basic concepts related to the notion of Groundscape such as Void, Light, Geography, Landscape, Heritage, Depth, Density, Network, etc…

Episode 2: Conquests

Study of Groundscape as a tool for the creation of new territories through the disappearance of architecture.

Episode 3: Geography

Study of Groundscape as the blending in of landscape and architecture. We will underline the capacity of the underground territory to establish complex networks and links with apparently simple actions.

Episode 4: Legacy

Study of Groundscape as an aesthetic and respectful urban solution in heritage sensible sites. We will dig into the ground to establish the foundations of Groundscape architecture

Episode 5: Into the Lab

An invitation to look inside unheard of design methods specifically oriented towards subterranean territories.