The Window in Alvaro Siza’s Work on Residential Buildings 1974-2014 Context, Constraints, Form and Methodology

Abstract

The essay focuses on the most important criteria in Álvaro Siza Vieira’s decision-making process in the design of the opening in residential buildings. Contextual and Constraint factors seem to form the premises of Siza’s working methodology. Context refers to the elements that arise from the architect’s individual ability to analyze controllable variants. Constraints are established by actors external to the creative process of project development. A cross analysis between contexts and constraints within four case studies is presented to identify which of those are transversal / preponderant in all projects. The aim is to identify criteria that are constant in the way that this architect approaches each project/ problem presented, which could eventually be used to reach a broader understanding of Siza ́s design decision making process.

Keywords: window, Álvaro Siza’s design methodology, context and constraints