Modulverantwortung: Caroline Ting
Lehrteam: Caroline Ting, Assistant: João Moreira

On Authenticity

The concept of authenticity has long worked its way into common architectural discourse, including discussions about contemporary architecture. This is not surprising, as we increasingly focus on building upon existing structures and managing what already exists, rather than demolishing and constructing anew. We can use the concept of authenticity to assess and classify existing structures to make informed decisions regarding the existing fabric. Authenticity is not just a concept but also pertains to practices associated with it.
Authenticity seems to be a highly desirable quality: it is associated with value, resilience, and appropriate development opportunities on spatial, structural, social, and cultural levels. However, views on authenticity vary considerably, and there is no consensus regarding its role in architectural practice.
This semester, we are exploring different views and meanings of authenticity in architecture. Our perspective extends beyond the initial, established understanding of authenticity in heritage conservation and building research, which often revolves around themes of reconstruction. We are not only referring to buildings of significant cultural history but also to everyday and newer objects, which are not necessarily less valuable and most of all represent a vast resource.
Can new structures be authentic? Who decides what is authentic and how? How does authenticity pertain to design concepts and unbuilt designs? And how does this affect our architectural and design practice?