Andrew Blocha
Design for Longevity
Techne and Poiesis
The intertwining of techne and poiesis in architecture represents a confluence of art and technique, the material and the immaterial, and the tangible and the conceptual. At its core, architecture is not just about erecting structures but about bringing forth new realities into the world. Techne, derived from ancient Greek, alludes to craft, skill, or the means by which something is produced. It reflects the technical, practical aspects of architecture—the methods, materials, and know-how. On the other hand, poiesis speaks to the act of creation itself, the poetic and philosophical manifestation that arises when an architect dreams and designs. Poiesis goes beyond the mere functionality, exploring deeper questions of meaning, purpose, and the human experience. When architects harness both techne and poiesis, they are not just constructing buildings but crafting spaces that resonate with emotions, stories, and lived experiences.
“If you cannot say what you mean, your majesty, you will never mean what you say.”
The Detail
It’s just a matter of scale. Details matter. Details are where the stains form to undermine the parti. They are where the cracks begin and where the entire system is held together. They are the point where 2 disparate materials intersect, the interlocutor of 2 trades. They are the realm of the architect. When done poorly they bring danger. When done exquisitely they reassure and make the heart sing.