Doha Debates: Have we lost touch with beauty in the world we’ve built?

Key Concepts

• Architecture and Identity: The role of buildings in reflecting and shaping cultural, spiritual, and national identity.
• Beauty in Architecture: The subjective versus objective nature of beauty in design, and whether it's a universal standard or context-dependent.
• Modernism vs. Tradition: The debate on whether modern architecture has lost its cultural grounding and beauty compared to traditional styles.
• Functionality vs. Aesthetics: The balance between practical utility and artistic expression in architectural design.
• Cultural Decline: The argument that adopted architectural idioms can embody moral, intellectual, and cultural decline.
• Speed of Change: The impact of rapid societal and technological advancements on architectural evolution.
• Reconstruction and Identity: The challenges and considerations in rebuilding war-torn areas, particularly concerning cultural preservation and self-determination.
• Agency in Design: The importance of local communities and inhabitants having the primary say in how their built environment is shaped.
• Architecture of Domination vs. Love: The contrast between buildings that impose control and those that foster beauty and higher values.

Architecture's Reflection of Civilization and Identity

The discussion begins by posing the question of whether contemporary architecture has lost its cultural and spiritual grounding, sacrificing beauty for modernist utility. Experts and thinkers present contrasting views.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Loss of Cultural and Spiritual Grounding: Several participants, including Marwa, argue that modern buildings reflect a decline in civilization, characterized by a lack of distinction between nations and a focus on utility over elevating values. Marwa states, "I think today uh our buildings refer that we no longer have u civilization in the traditional sense of civilization because civilization actually depend on uh the distinguishment between one nation to the other."
• Embodiment of Decline: The adopted architectural idiom is seen by some as embodying "a cultural decline and a moral decline, intellectual decline that created this emptiness that we see today."
• Identityless Buildings: Tariq observes a global trend of buildings becoming "identityless," lacking a connection to civilization, identity, spirit, roots, and culture. He emphasizes that a building's mission should be to reflect "who we are and how can be part of representing our identity, our lifestyle and effectively our civilization."
• Evolving Values and Modernity: Badisha challenges the notion of losing identity, suggesting that architecture reflects societal changes. She argues that the rapid pace of modernity necessitates buildings that keep up, stating, "we need to keep up in our built environment reflect that modernity or that part of modernity which is happening."
• Disconnection from the Past: Marwa posits that current times are "completely disconnected from times before," with modern creations prioritizing change over settlement and permanence.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Marwa and Carl: Agree that a focus on utility over traditional values and beauty has led to negative consequences for the built environment and its inhabitants. Carl adds that modern architecture has become a "servant for different ideologies instead of being built for the people that are supposed to use it."
• Tariq: Believes that buildings are becoming increasingly identityless globally, losing their connection to civilization.
• Badisha: Argues that architecture reflects societal evolution and the need to keep pace with modernity, rather than a loss of identity.

The Nature of Beauty and Architectural Principles

A significant portion of the debate centers on the definition and pursuit of beauty in architecture, with differing opinions on whether it's a universal standard or subjective.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Subjectivity of Beauty: Badisha asserts that "beauty is not a universal single standard and therefore the way we define it uh varies from context to context and cultures." This is echoed by others who state, "Everyone has their own tastes. If there's something you don't like, you will find someone who does like it. And if there's something you like, you will find someone who doesn't like it. We always forget that our profession is very subjective. Meaning the beauty to judge a beautiful building from an un beautiful building is very subjective. Beauty is subjective."
• Objective Standards of Beauty: Conversely, some argue against complete subjectivity, with one participant stating, "objectively, there are standards of beauty."
• Functionality as Priority: Some participants, like one student, believe that "the top priority for when designing architecture should be functionality."
• Principles of Beauty: The idea that "certain principles within architecture that you need to follow for it to be beautiful" is presented, with the caveat that uniqueness doesn't automatically equate to superiority.
• Craftsmanship and Artistry: Carl laments the loss of craftsmanship and built tradition, viewing the modern architect more as an "original thinking artist instead of a craftsman." However, others counter that craftsmanship has evolved, incorporating digital design and traditional crafts.
• Emotional Impact of Spaces: The profound influence of spaces on emotions and experiences is highlighted, with one student noting, "spaces are central to uh our emotions, our experiences and and the way we evolve naturally."
• Architecture as a Reflection of Values: The idea that buildings should reflect identity, environment, nature, and lifestyle is presented as a marker of "modern, present architecture."

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Challenging Subjectivity: While acknowledging subjectivity, some argue for objective standards and the importance of a building's value to human interaction and surroundings.
• Balancing Function and Beauty: The debate grapples with whether architecture should prioritize practical problem-solving or evoking emotion and elevating the human spirit, with the consensus leaning towards the possibility of both.
• Critique of Modernism: Modernist architecture is criticized for being "more uh steered towards ideology rather than seeking beauty."

The Impact of Modernism and Societal Shifts

The discussion delves into the legacy of modernism and how societal changes, including shifts in patronage and the speed of life, have influenced architectural practices.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Modernism's Rise and Evolution: It's acknowledged that modernist architecture arose from specific needs, and subsequent architectural movements have evolved from it.
• Shift in Patronage: The dismantling of princely courts and the rise of individual patronage have altered the relationship between architects, clients, and society, potentially leading to less social agreement and refinement.
• Speed of Life and Design: The rapid pace of modern life necessitates quick architectural solutions, which can conflict with the time-consuming nature of traditional building and the pursuit of permanence.
• Craftsmanship Evolution: While some lament the loss of traditional craftsmanship, others point to new forms of craftsmanship involving digital design and robotics.
• Critique of "Isms": The tendency to oversimplify architectural history by focusing on specific "isms" is noted.
• The Role of the Architect: The architect's mission is seen as crucial in reflecting identity and lifestyle, but also potentially diluted by commercial pressures.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Badisha: Argues that modernism, while potentially flawed, was a response to specific needs and that architecture is constantly evolving.
• Carl: Expresses skepticism about the inherent correctness of all modern things and emphasizes the need to define "modern" beyond just materials and techniques.
• Tic: Highlights the importance of architecture enhancing daily life, stating that buildings should be rooted, reflect identity, environment, nature, and lifestyle.

Rebuilding and Identity in War-Torn Contexts: The Case of Gaza

A particularly poignant and emotionally charged segment of the discussion focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza, raising critical questions about agency, identity, and the role of architecture in post-conflict scenarios.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Palestinian Agency: A strong consensus emerges that the rebuilding of Gaza must be driven by the desires and decisions of the Palestinian people themselves, emphasizing their agency. Masad states, "the agency should always lie with with them."
• Restoration vs. New Identity: Debates arise on whether Gaza should be restored to its previous state or embrace a new identity. Leen advocates for restoration to empower resistance and preserve Palestinian culture.
• Architecture of Colonization: The current architecture of Gaza is described as an "architecture of colonization and occupation," with dense apartment buildings as legacies of colonialism.
• Memory and Memorialization: The importance of preserving memory architecturally, even through remnants of destruction, is discussed, drawing parallels with places like Berlin and Hashima.
• Emotional Impact of Displacement: Students share deeply emotional accounts of displacement and the loss of homeland, highlighting the profound human cost of conflict. Sarah describes the "brutal" nature of genocide and erasure.
• Reconstruction as a Process: The idea that reconstruction is a multi-stage process, starting with basic needs and progressing to grander visions after healing, is presented.
• Avoiding Imposed Agendas: There's a strong rejection of external powers dictating how Gaza should be rebuilt, emphasizing that any imposed solutions are a form of colonization.
• The Role of External Powers: Concerns are raised about the involvement of external countries like the US in dictating reconstruction plans, seen as an attempt to claim and reshape the territory.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Student Consensus: The students overwhelmingly agree that the agency for rebuilding Gaza must lie with the Palestinians.
• Marwa's Perspective: As someone from a war-torn country, Marwa emphasizes the unlikelihood of genuine reconstruction under continued occupation and highlights the resilience and self-sufficiency of the Gazan people. She warns against idealized American models based on consumerism and control.
• Emotional Resonance: The discussion on Gaza elicits strong emotional responses from students, underscoring the personal impact of conflict and displacement.

Architecture and Reconciliation: The Central Bank of Iraq Example

The conversation shifts to how architecture can contribute to reconciliation and the rebuilding of narratives, using the new Central Bank of Iraq as a case study.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Rebuilding Narratives: Projects like the Central Bank of Iraq are seen as opportunities to "rebuild the narrative of this city" and serve as a "point of orientation, the starting point of a new story."
• Symbol of a New Era: The imposing, tall white building with glass overlooking the Tigris River is presented as a symbol of a new, modern era for Baghdad, signifying progress and improvement.
• Potential for Reconciliation: Amir suggests that such structures can aid in reconciliation by representing a positive future and a departure from past difficulties.
• Dangers of Imposed Identity: Badisha cautions that architecture can become dangerous if it attempts to change identity or impose segregation, but celebrates it when it serves the people and enhances beauty.
• Defining Beauty and Function: The discussion circles back to the challenge of defining beauty and the role of architecture, with a distinction made between "neat and nice and beautiful."

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Amir: Highlights the Central Bank of Iraq as an exception to his general critique of modernist architecture, seeing it as a powerful symbol of a new beginning for Baghdad.
• Badisha: Emphasizes that while architecture can aid reconciliation, it must serve the people and not impose an identity or create division.

Multiculturalism, Regionalism, and the Future of Architecture

The final segment explores the implications of a more interconnected and multicultural world on architectural design.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Multiculturalism and Global Nomadism: The challenge of finding culturally relevant architecture in a world where individuals are increasingly global nomads with diverse influences is raised.
• Regional Exclusivity: Lynn proposes that architecture should be "regionally exclusive," adapting to local climates and lifestyles to be functional and appreciated by people of different backgrounds.
• Sustainability and Longevity: The importance of using sustainable materials and building structures that can last for future generations is stressed.
• Exchange of Ideas: Architecture is viewed as a process of engagement and exchange of ideas, with influences flowing in both directions between cultures. The concept of the courtyard is cited as an example of a non-Western influence.
• Enjoyment of Diverse Styles: The benefit of classical architecture is seen in its ability to develop and incorporate diverse influences, fostering a sense of belonging, unlike the potentially estranging nature of universal modernist styles.
• Architecture of Love vs. Fear: Marwa reiterates the idea that civilizations oscillate between love and fear, and architecture should champion love through beauty and higher values, rather than perpetuating fear through domination.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Lynn: Advocates for regionally specific architecture that respects local conditions and lifestyles.
• Tic: Argues that architecture's primary identity label should be its reflection of its surrounding environment.
• Marwa: Concludes by emphasizing the need for architecture to be driven by love and beauty, rather than fear and domination.

Student Reflections and Takeaways

The students offer their insights and reflections on the debate, highlighting their evolving perspectives and the impact of the discussion.

Main Topics and Key Points:

• Confusion and Clarity: Some students initially felt confused by the differing viewpoints but found clarity through the process.
• Frustration with Design Principles: One student expressed frustration with what they perceived as "skewed" design principles among the experts.
• Appreciation for Diverse Views: The students valued the opportunity to hear diverse and opposing viewpoints, recognizing the complexity of architectural discourse.
• Missing Elements: Students identified missing elements in the conversation, such as the emotional impact of buildings and the question of who has the right to experience beauty, particularly in the context of housing crises.
• Empathy for Architects: Some students developed a greater empathy for architects, understanding the constraints imposed by clients and the desire to create meaningful spaces.
• The Gaza Discussion: The conversation about Gaza was particularly impactful, evoking strong emotions and highlighting the importance of Palestinian agency.
• Future of Architecture: The students express optimism about the future of architecture, believing it to be in capable hands, and emphasize the importance of continued dialogue and the pursuit of a middle ground.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• Evolving Perspectives: The students demonstrate a willingness to reconsider their initial assumptions and develop a more nuanced understanding of architectural issues.
• Emphasis on Agency: The students' reflections reinforce the importance of local agency in architectural decision-making, particularly in contexts of conflict and displacement.
• Hope for the Future: Despite the complexities and emotional weight of the discussions, the students express a sense of hope for the future of architecture and the potential for positive change.

Synthesis and Conclusion

The Doha Debates explored the multifaceted relationship between architecture, culture, identity, and beauty. While traditionalists lamented a perceived loss of spiritual and cultural grounding in modern architecture, others argued for its evolution in response to societal changes and the demands of modernity. The debate highlighted the subjective nature of beauty, the tension between functionality and aesthetics, and the profound impact of the built environment on human experience.

A particularly powerful segment focused on the reconstruction of Gaza, underscoring the critical importance of local agency and the preservation of identity in war-torn regions. The discussion also touched upon the role of architecture in reconciliation and the challenges of creating meaningful and culturally relevant spaces in an increasingly multicultural and interconnected world.

Ultimately, the conversation revealed that while there may not be universal answers, the ongoing dialogue, the willingness to challenge assumptions, and the pursuit of a middle ground are essential for shaping a more thoughtful, beautiful, and humane built environment for the future. The students' reflections demonstrated a growing awareness of these complexities and a commitment to engaging with these critical issues.