Dilemmas and Delights of Designing with Terrain Vague and Postmodern Concepts

Abstract

Solà-Morales’s terrain vague reconceptualises underused and derelict lands using a postmodernist lens concluding their worth is in their contrast to conventional space. However, this stands in opposition to the traditional modernist thought, which perceive these spaces as detritus, whose only value lies in its redevelopment. As postmodern thought gains traction in landscape architecture, the question of how designers respond and utilize the terrain vague context is becoming more relevant. Through a case study of three spaces that utilize their respective terrain vague conditions “as material” in their reimaging, this thesis explores the strategies and results of designers referencing this oft dismissed phase of neglect. Using a structured case study approach, this study finds that sites invoking terrain vague as context to their design invariably destroys the terrain vague condition, make temporality explicit in their new design, and employ an inclusive, multi-stakeholder design process.