Cubist Space, Volumetric Space, and Landscape Architecture

Abstract

There are profound differences between two kinds of landscape space: the space that surrounds and is therefore subordinate to solids, and the space that is made an explicit form by solids with the solid subordinate to the intended space. The first of the two space types is herein characterized as Cubist space; the second is characterized as volumetric space. In the author's view, landscape architects make design interventions for the purpose of creating spaces for human activities. It is argued that of the two space types, volumetric space is the more logical choice for this task. It is further argued that volumetric space is neglected by contemporary landscape architects out of reflexive adherence to Modernist aesthetic principles, even though the philosophical underpinnings for those principles have been severely weakened. In conclusion it is suggested that the generative void left by discredited modernism is being filled by the emerging paradigm of environmental holism; and that from within this new paradigm the validity of volumetric space as the figural media for creating experiential “place” is strongly supported.