"Porosity as a Paradigm" - Urban Research

Karm Patel

Exchange Elective

In 1925, Walter Benjamin and Asja Lacis described Naples' architecture as "porous" like its stone, where construction and action blend seamlessly. Porosity symbolizes permeability, gaps, and ambiguity, countering modern urban planning's rigid boundaries. This spring semester, we will explore the potential of porosity in contemporary urban landscapes, focusing on a non-profit residential plot in Limmattal, near Dietikon, Schlieren, and Urdorf. By analyzing spatial structures, symbols, living environments, and movement patterns, we aim to understand the interplay between urban substance and life. Our methods include conversations, sketches, and maps, complemented by a theory seminar and final critique discussion.

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This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Alp Rabia, Alrutz Ria, Angst Jasmin, Colin Ramirez Paola, Edrich Daniel, Flotho Charlie, Gross Julius, Hophan Tim, Hug Tim, Ismaili Abdolrauf, Parekh Simran, Patel Karm, Reuteler Damian, Weber Fiona, who have contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.

This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Ismaili Abdolrauf, Patel Karm and Reuteler Damian, who have contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.

This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Alrutz Ria and Hophan Tim, who have contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.

This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Gross Julius and Hug Tim, who have contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.

This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Edrich Daniel, Flotho Charlie and Parekh Simran, who have contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.

This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Angst Jasmin and Colin Ramirez Paola, who have contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.

This image is used with permission from ZHAW University. The individuals shown are Alp Rabia and Weber Fiona, who contributed to the “Porosität als Paradigma” group project. All rights to this image are granted to CEPT University for educational and promotional purposes.