Changing the rules: architecture and the new millennium


Abstract
Walls, work surfaces and furniture can now all be digitally enhanced. The position presented is that these emerging technologies are radically changing the design constraints of architecture. The article has four parts. First, the cognitive conception of an activity space is critically evaluated to show that the idea of an activity space must be broadened to accommodate actions that are not normally viewed as task relevant. Second, the different properties of physical and digital objects are explained and morals drawn about the way digital objects can be used to enhance physical environments. Three specific examples of digital enhancement are then discussed: telepresence, 3 dimensional intranets, and intelligent furniture. In the fourth section the architectural significance of these types of digital enhancements is shown by discussing how Christopher Alexander’s nine tenets of workspace design must be reconceptualized. The conclusion drawn is that the customary rules of architectural composition are changing.