Nomadology in architecture: ephemerality, movement and collaboration.

Abstract

This thesis investigates the theoretical and practical importance of nomadic ways of life for architecture. Nomadology is a construction of Deleuze and Guattari's 'counter-philosophy', challenging authenticity and propriety, in this case, in the context of architecture. This thesis describes how nomadology may serve contemporary architectural practice and criticism; challenging static, permanent, and heroically solitary ways of working and dwelling. Nomadology in architecture proposes ways for thinking and working temporally, dynamically, and collaboratively. The thesis suggests strategies - diagramming, ephemerality, movement, and collaboration - as ways of reconciling nomadism and architecture. The 'Contexts' section of this thesis surveys Western and global contexts of understanding nomads and nomadology, and how these pertain to architecture. Western conceptions of architecture have inhibited the study of nomadology in architecture. A case is made for challenging biases in Western views of architecture, for critically employing the ideas of the diagram and the rhizome in architectural criticism, and for recognising the role of movement. The 'Applications' section shows, through practical examples, that the potential of nomadology is latent in spatial and environmental practices of architectural production and architectural criticism. This section of the thesis identifies the significance of nomads as users and exponents of architecture, despite their frequent exclusion from architectural history. Tent architecture, practices of nomadic resistance and Bedouin life practices are considered as key examples. The 'Strategies' section suggests ways of applying principles of nomadology. This final section expands on the potential for 'peripatetic' practices of architecture. Processes of reconciling settled and nomadic tendencies in architectural projects are outlined. Strategies are described by which engendering and collaborating may be the means for creating architecture. The continuing research into, and interpretation of nomadology in architecture are proposed as a basis for critical theorisation and reflective practice of architecture.