Ibiza, the island time forgot | Rolf Blakstad | TEDxDaltVila

Key Concepts

• Dry zone architecture: Simple, rectangular buildings made of mud or stone with flat, wooden roofs waterproofed with clay, found from the Himalayas to the Atlantic.
• Sustainability: Building practices that minimize environmental impact and ensure long-term resource availability.
• Vernacular architecture: Building styles that are traditional to a region and use local materials and knowledge.
• Organic relationship between man and nature: Architecture that is integrated with and responsive to the natural environment.
• Timeless tradition: Architectural principles and designs that remain relevant and appealing across generations.

Island Life and Traditional Architecture

The speaker begins by describing their childhood on an island, living in a mud and stone house with water from a well and neighbors cooking on open hearths. These houses resembled those found in Kapal Huyok, Turkey, a Neolithic site dating back over 9,000 years. This type of architecture, referred to as "dry zone architecture," is characterized by simple rectangular buildings made of mud or stone with flat, wooden roofs waterproofed with a layer of clay. The Phoenicians introduced this style to the island in the 7th century BC.

The Impact of Tourism and Architectural Loss

The speaker's parents arrived on the island in 1956, experiencing a life measured by seasons and traditional practices. However, tourism rapidly transformed the island, leading to a loss of its identity and the disappearance of traditional houses. The speaker's father documented these vanishing houses, interviewing elders about design and building methods to preserve the architectural heritage. He opened his studio in 1967.

Building with Local Materials and Knowledge

The speaker apprenticed in their father's workshop, learning from the "barefoot builders" who developed a sustainable design using local materials. Mud, stone, and timber were collected on-site. Trees were pruned and cherished for generations to provide roofing and beams. Cracks in the earth roofs were filled with fresh clay before the rains, and debris was diverted from the cisterns to prevent sediment buildup. This continuous maintenance ensured the houses remained intact and the knowledge was preserved.

Evolution of Design and Modern Needs

Initially, the speaker's father rebuilt old ruins. As these disappeared, they began building replicas of old houses. Over time, their designs evolved to accommodate modern lifestyles. The speaker questions whether modern needs are truly that different and explores the enduring appeal of these traditional houses. They suggest that the simplicity and connection to the landscape offer a sense of comfort and grounding.

Closing the Circle: Integrating Tradition and Modernity

The speaker notes that easy access to information allows people to participate in the design process. They pose key questions: Is the design appropriate for the climate and environment? Can we find balance and harmony in opposites? Can we adapt to modern needs while preserving the essence of a timeless tradition? The speaker answers affirmatively, advocating for simplicity and focusing on how we feel rather than what we think.

The Relay Race of Innovation

The speaker emphasizes that we are part of a long relay race, holding the baton until we are replaced. Like the Phoenicians, we have the opportunity to spread the concept of dry zone architecture, which is sustainable by design.

Conclusion

The speaker concludes by advocating for a return to simple, sustainable building practices rooted in local materials and traditional knowledge. By integrating these principles with modern needs, we can create architecture that is both functional and harmonious with the environment. The key is to focus on the feeling and connection to the land, ensuring that our buildings reflect our values and contribute to a sustainable future.