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Speculative Frontiers:

Exploring Theoretical Boundaries of Outer Space Architecture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capstone Prospectus

Will Langston

Fay Jones School of Architecture & Design

Department of Architecture

Introduction

“Speculation” is a relatively new term for me, but ever since I was a kid have always been fascinated with inspiring outer space worlds or depictions of unimagined spaces, I just did not know to call those environments “speculative” until starting my architectural education. I have always had a fixation on sci-fi based on my artistic endeavors, and it is evident why I have become interested in the speculative realm of architecture. It represents not just a frontier for scientific exploration, but also an interesting form of architectural speculation and innovation. During this semester, through the discovery and development of my interests, I even created speculative collages to help me define the scope of my capstone.

Collage Analysis of a Space Station, Will Langston,

 (Drawing conclusions from the optimized functionality of space station design)

 

Often when I am frustrated or seemingly disconnected from an idea, I try to make sense of it visually, and this is exactly what I did when developing this area of interest for my capstone proposal.

 In this capstone, I aim to delve into the intersection of architecture and outer space. Exploring how architectural design can inform the creation of built environments in speculative outer space. The area of interest lies at the intersection of architecture, speculative design, and space exploration. It encompasses the study of existing outer-space architecture, ranging from space stations to planetary habitats, as well as the imaginative projection of architectural principles onto speculative ones. Furthermore, represents these speculative environments under the framework set by ideas of socio-architectural expression. My formal thesis question would be; Can a study of speculative outer space architecture inform the understanding of how architecture responds to society, technology, and the environment?

Theoretical Context of the Project

This capstone is grounded in the theoretical frameworks of architectural theory, speculative design, and outer space studies. It begins with a broad exploration of the architectural responses of designing for social context, advancement in technology, and an expansive environment, gradually narrowing in on the application of these principles in the unique context of outer space. By this, we can begin to explore the broader context of ideas analyzing speculative outer-space architecture. When envisioning unimagined space habitation and exploration, we can create a better understanding of the hidden connections to the current and future views of our built environment.

This project is a traditional written scholarship combined with an artistic inquiry. It involves the analysis of case studies of varying scopes and information from outer-space architecture, speculative design, and existing theory to form a framework. Then, using the found framework to inform a set of hybrid drawings of these speculative outer-space environments.  By understanding the existing context of how architectural principles can adapt to the challenges of space, we can explore the hidden connections that best help us create a better environment on Earth. So, these speculative environments are less of an inevitability and more of a building block for understanding more about how we should be designing; to support human life effectively, sustainably, and promote well-being.

What lessons can be learned from existing outer-space architecture, and how can these inform the design of speculative outer-space environments?

Background

The exploration of outer space has captivated the human imagination for centuries, inspiring visions of futuristic cities on distant planets and interstellar journeys to uncharted realms. At the intersection of this fascination with space exploration and the creative realm of architectural design lies the field of “speculative architecture”. Speculative architectural drawings provide the architect with a method of generative representation that reveals new creative opportunities, through the ability to merge social, contextual, cultural, and even mythological references with personal experience and intuition. (Daniel K. Brown, 2022).

Defining Speculative Architecture

Speculative architecture transcends the constraints of reality, offering architects and designers a world upon which to explore radical ideas and visionary concepts. It encompasses a wide range of imaginative scenarios, from utopian visions of technologically advanced societies to dystopian landscapes shaped by environmental catastrophes. These projects serve as a way for designers and architects to understand more about the world in how it applies to architecture in a way that is thinking about the interactions between history, narrative, humanity, and idealized views of the built environment.

Lebbeus Woods was a visionary architect whose speculative work pushed the boundaries of architectural imagination and inspired a new generation of thinkers and creators. Through his drawings, writings, and teachings, he challenged conventional wisdom and expanded the possibilities of what architecture could be. “Woods' works often explored themes of war, conflict, and crisis, reflecting his belief that architecture should respond to the tumultuous realities of the contemporary world” (War&Architecture, 2011). Through his speculative drawings and writings, he envisioned radical architectural interventions that transcended traditional boundaries, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

Lebbeus Woods, Underground Berlin 19, Elevation View, 1988

 

Archigram also had a profound impact on defining speculative architecture through its approach to design and its exploration of visionary concepts. Founded in the 1960s by a group of British architects, Archigram rejected traditional architectural norms and instead embraced radical, experimental ideas that challenged conventional notions of space, form, and function (Sanders Joel, 2023). One of Archigram's key contributions to speculative architecture was its use of drawings and collages to envision adapted cities and landscapes. These speculative designs often featured futuristic technologies, mobile structures, and adaptable environments, reflecting the spirit of the space age and the era's fascination with the future. Furthermore, Archigram's emphasis on mobility and temporality challenged traditional notions of permanence in architecture, opening new avenues for exploring the relationship between people, space, and technology.

Peter Cook, Plug-In City, Max. Pressure Area, Long Section, 1963

 

Archigram addressed themes such as urbanization, consumer culture, and the impact of technology on society. Their designs often reflected concerns about the changing nature of cities and the need for flexible, adaptable environments that could accommodate evolving social dynamics.

Another influential speculative architect is Perry Kulper. Perry Kulper is a visionary architect and educator whose work challenges traditional modes of architectural representation and inspires new ways of thinking about space and narrative. Through his drawings, teachings, and writings, he continues to shape the discourse on speculative design and the future of architecture. Kulper's drawings are characterized by their richly layered compositions, intricate details, and surreal landscapes, which blur the boundaries between reality and fiction. Through his speculative projects, he explores themes such as memory, time, and perception, inviting viewers to reconsider their understanding of the built environment and the stories it tells.

Perry Kulper - Fast Twitch, Speculative Desert Dwelling, v.03, Site Drawing

 

Speculative architects leverage the power of creativity and tautology to envision futures that may never come to pass but serve as thought-provoking reflections on the possibilities of human ingenuity and aspiration. (Cutrieu Andreea, 2020)

Understanding Outer Space Architecture

Outer space architecture is the discipline concerned with the design, construction, and habitation of structures and habitats beyond Earth's atmosphere. Over the past century, the field of outer space architecture has evolved significantly. The exploration of outer space began in the mid-20th century with the launch of artificial satellites. Early satellites, such as Sputnik 1 launched by the Soviet Union in 1957, were primarily used for scientific research, communications, and navigation. The design of these satellites was focused on functionality and reliability, with simple, compact structures optimized for launching into orbit. (Berkowitz, Bruce, and Michael Suk, 2015)

As space exploration progressed, the focus shifted towards the development of space stations and habitats capable of supporting long-duration human habitation. Space stations, such as Skylab, Mir, and the International Space Station (ISS), expanded upon concepts of social context, providing living and working quarters for astronauts conducting scientific research and experiments. (“Space Station 20th: Long-Duration Missions.”). Architects and engineers played pivotal roles in conceptualizing and realizing these space habitats, pushing the boundaries of design and engineering to create habitable environments in the harsh conditions of space.

International Space Station, Orbiter, 1998

 

A prominent figure is Brent Sherwood, an aerospace architect who has contributed to conceptual designs for future space missions and habitats. Sherwood's work focuses on developing architectural solutions that address the unique challenges of space exploration, including microgravity, radiation exposure, and resource limitations. He specializes in modular construction systems and closed-loop life support systems. (AIAA, 2024). This has been instrumental in shaping the design of space habitats for long-duration human habitation.

Designing habitats for space presents unique challenges due to the harsh conditions of the space environment. Architects and engineers have developed a range of technologies and design strategies to address these challenges, including inflatable habitats, modular construction systems, and closed-loop life support systems. The contributions of architects, engineers, and scientists alike have been instrumental in advancing the field of outer space architecture, paving the way for the design and construction of habitats that can support human life beyond Earth.

Top of Form

Exploring a more Speculative Application of Outer Space Architecture

Speculative outer space architecture has existed for decades. Concepts such as lunar bases, Mars colonies, and space tourism represent exciting opportunities for architectural experimentation and creativity. One example is a series of space settlements designed by Gerard O’Neill, envisioning a better way of living throughout the solar system, with the capacity to house up to 1 million people. (Scharmen, 2019). A redefined version of this was then seen in the ending scenes of the film, Interstellar, taking his paintings and turning them into a real-life visualization.

Gerard O’Neill, Toroidal Colony, 1975

Syd Mead, renowned for his futuristic illustrations and designs, profoundly influenced the realm of speculative outer space architecture through his visionary creativity and meticulous attention to detail. One of Mead's primary contributions to speculative architecture was his ability to create visually stunning and highly detailed illustrations of futuristic cities, landscapes, and technologies. His artwork often depicted sleek, utopian environments characterized by advanced technology, efficient transportation systems, and innovative architectural forms. Mead's influence extended beyond his artwork to his conceptual design work for films such as "Blade Runner," "Tron," and "Aliens." (Henry Fong). Through his collaboration with filmmakers, Mead brought his visionary architectural concepts to life on the silver screen, becoming one of the most recognized speculative designers.

Syd Mead, US Steel Series, 1961

Mead's work also engaged with social issues and cultural trends of his time. His futuristic visions often reflected broader concerns about urbanization, environmental sustainability, and the impact of technology on society. By exploring these themes in his artwork, Mead encouraged audiences to contemplate the implications of technological advancement and to envision alternative futures shaped by human ingenuity and creativity.

 

Approach

The investigation into the application of designing in speculative outer-space environments will be seen through a methodology that combines lit review, case studies, analysis of existing outer-space architecture, and the creation of hybrid drawings to visualize deeper understandings, as well as drawing conclusions from the connections between these drawings and theory. This approach aims to bridge the gap between real-world architectural precedents and speculative design concepts, providing insights into the principles that inform both. Designing for fundamental concepts of individual and community well-being, technological advancements, and environment encompasses a range of considerations. Understanding and applying these principles is essential for architects, designers, and engineers seeking to create functional, aesthetically pleasing, and socially responsible designs. And seeing connections between the speculative application of these principles will produce results that give a deeper understanding of the future of our built environment. Using a case study analysis, a framework will be developed, through which to understand how speculative outer space architecture reflects ideas of society, technology, and environment.

Research or Design Strategies

The overarching research strategy proposed involves conducting a series of lit reviews and case studies of existing outer-space architecture, and imaginative outer-space architecture, including space stations, habitats, and spacecrafts, as well as sci-fi films, Nasa futurist paintings, and more. These case studies will serve as a basis for creating a framework for the the application of architectural design principles such as social context, environment, and technology in real-world space environments into a series of drawings.

The specific tactics planned include:

Literature Review: Reviewing relevant literature on architectural theory, speculative design, and space exploration to provide theoretical grounding and context for the research.

Case Study Analysis: Conducting in-depth analysis of selected case studies of outer-space architecture, examining design principles, construction techniques, and functional considerations.

Hybrid Drawings: Testing the found framework through the process of hybrid drawings that integrate elements of real-world space architecture with speculative design concepts.

Analysis of Connections: Analyzing the found connections between speculative outer space architecture and the existing framework/theory that come to the surface from the research and drawings.

 

 

Delimiting the Project

I have offered multiple options of scheduling based on if this capstone should be either a 1 or 2-semester endeavor.

Preliminary Sequence of Steps:

Option 1: A 3-credit, one-semester capstone

• (4 weeks) Conduct a literature review to establish a theoretical framework and identify relevant case studies.
• (4 weeks) Select and analyze case studies of outer-space architecture, documenting design principles and functional considerations.
• (3 weeks) Create drawings that visualize the application of architectural principles in speculative outer-space environments.
• (1 week) Iteratively refine speculative designs based on analysis and feedback.
• (4 weeks) Synthesize findings into a cohesive narrative that bridges real-world precedents with speculative design concepts.

 

Option 2: A 6-credit, two-semester capstone

Semester 1: Literature Review and Case Study Analysis

·       Weeks 1-2: Define research questions and objectives.

·       Weeks 3-4: Conduct an initial literature review on speculative architecture, outer space architecture, and relevant architectural principles (4 weeks total)

·       Weeks 5-6: refine research questions and establish theoretical framework.

·       Weeks 7-10: in-depth literature review on speculative architecture, outer space architecture, and architectural principles (8 weeks total)

·       Weeks 11-12: select case studies of outer space architecture and relevant architectural projects.

·       Weeks 13-14: analyze case studies and extract key findings.

·       Weeks 15-16: synthesize literature review and case study analysis into a comprehensive framework.

Semester 2: Drawing Creation and Analysis

·       Weeks 1-2: Review and Refine Research Framework

·       Weeks 3-6: Begin Creation of Drawings Based on Framework (4 weeks total)

·       Weeks 7-10: Iterative Development and Refinement of Drawings (4 weeks total)

·       Weeks 11-12: Conduct Preliminary Analysis of Drawings and Identify Connections to Framework

·       Weeks 13-14: Finalize Drawings and Prepare for Analysis

·       Weeks 15-16: Analyze Connections Between Drawings and Framework, Identify Key Insights

 

Citations

“Alum Appointed Space Domain Lead for AIAA.” Alum Appointed Space Domain Lead for AIAA | Department of Aerospace Engineering. Accessed May 5, 2024. https://aero.umd.edu/news/story/alum-appointed-space-domain-lead-for-aiaa.

 

Berkowitz, Bruce, and Michael Suk. The National Reconnaissance Office at 50 Years: A brief history. Chantilly, VA: National Reconnaissance Office, Center for the Study of National Reconnaissance, 2015.

 

Brown, Daniel K. “Idea-Building.” architecture-now, February 2022. https://architecturenow.co.nz/articles/idea-building/#:~:text=1%20Speculative%20architectural%20drawings%20provide,Perry%20Kulper.

 

Cutieru, Andreea. “Speculative Architecture: Where Are the Contemporary Equivalents of the 60s and 70s Radical Visions?” ArchDaily, November 22, 2020. https://www.archdaily.com/951803/speculative-architecture-where-are-the-contemporary-equivalents-of-the-60s-and-70s-radical-visions.

 

Novak, Matt. “Syd Mead Art for U.S. Steel (1960s).” Paleofuture, July 20, 2022. https://paleofuture.com/blog/2008/2/26/syd-mead-art-for-us-steel-1960s.html.

 

Sanders, Joel. “Archigram: Design on the Future.” Artforum, September 26, 2023. https://www.artforum.com/features/archigram-design-on-the-future-201396/.

 

Says:, Henry Fong. “Syd Mead US Steel Series.” Official Syd Mead Website 2024, July 20, 2021. https://sydmead.com/syd-mead-steel-series-2/.

 

Scharmen, Fred. Space settlements. New York: Columbia University, 2019.

 

“Space Station 20th: Long-Duration Missions.” NASA, September 27, 2023. https://www.nasa.gov/history/space-station-20th-long-duration-missions/.

 

“War and Architecture: Three Principles.” LEBBEUS WOODS, December 16, 2011. https://lebbeuswoods.wordpress.com/2011/12/15/war-and-architecture-three-principles/.

 

 

Annotated Bibliography

Woods, Lebbeus. Pamphlet Architecture 11-20. Princeton Architectural Press, 1998.

Lebbeus Woods' seminal series of Pamphlet Architecture volumes explores speculative architectural concepts, pushing the boundaries of traditional design and imagining radical, alternative futures

Kulper, Perry. Drawing Theory: Speculations in Contemporary Architectural Drawing. Princeton Architectural Press, 2017.

Perry Kulper's book delves into the theoretical aspects of architectural drawing, emphasizing the role of drawing as a generative tool for speculative design. Through a series of essays and visual explorations, Kulper offers insights into the creative process of speculative architecture and its potential to envision new spatial strategies.

 

Young, Liam. Speculative Everything: Design, Fiction, and Social Dreaming. MIT Press, 2013.

Liam Young's book explores the intersection of design, fiction, and social imagination, arguing for the importance of speculative design in envisioning alternative futures. His work highlights the role of speculation in architecture as a means of challenging existing norms and imagining innovative solutions to societal challenges.

Brown, Daniel K. Cybernetic Architecture: Utopia and the Human Connection to Building. Routledge, 2019.

Daniel K. Brown's book examines the relationship between cybernetics and architecture, exploring how advances in technology are reshaping the built environment. He provides valuable insights into the potential of speculative architecture to adapt to future technological developments.

Scharmen, Fred. Space Settlements. Columbia Books on Architecture and the City, 2019.

Fred Scharmen's book explores the history and future of space settlement, examining speculative architectural concepts for human habitation in outer space. By tracing the evolution of space settlement ideas, Scharmen offers a comprehensive overview of the possibilities and challenges of designing habitats in outer space.

Mead, Syd. Sentinel: Syd Mead's Visual Futurism. Titan Books, 2020.

Syd Mead's book showcases his iconic visual artwork and designs, offering a glimpse into his visionary imagination and its impact on speculative architecture. Mead's futuristic visions of space exploration and colonization inspire creative thinking about the possibilities of outer space architecture.

Johnson-Freese, Joan. Space as a Strategic Asset. Columbia University Press, 2007.

Joan Johnson-Freese examines the strategic importance of space exploration and development, including the role of architecture in supporting human activities beyond Earth. Her analysis provides insights into the challenges and opportunities of designing habitats and infrastructure for long-term space missions and colonization efforts.

Logsdon, John M. The Decision to Go to the Moon: Project Apollo and the National Interest. The MIT Press, 1970.

John M. Logsdon explores the historical context and political motivations behind the Apollo program, shedding light on the factors that drove the United States to undertake ambitious space exploration initiatives. His examination of the decision-making process offers valuable perspectives on the role of architecture in shaping human presence in space.

O'Neill, Gerard K. The High Frontier: Human Colonies in Space. William Morrow & Co, 1977.

Gerard K. O'Neill presents a visionary proposal for human colonization of space, outlining concepts for constructing large-scale habitats in Earth orbit and beyond. His seminal work explores the architectural and engineering challenges of creating self-sustaining space settlements, inspiring discussions about the future of outer space architecture and exploration.