Architecture Can Be Weird

Speaker's introduction 

In a way, the series itself is weird, collecting evidence that suggests architecture is far from being a comfortable progression of predictable situations. Rather, it lurches from the circumstantial to the heroic; from the coincidental to the absurd; from the boring to the piquant. After all, it is the product of those most fallible creatures, humans.

The series deliberately ranges over very different zones of observation, current and selectively historic. It will sometimes deal with the dilemmas facing young architects, sometimes discussing the magical moments that I have witnessed, sometimes consider the paradox of creativity emerging out of chance.

Suspect thoughts - coming from the lips and eyes of a so-called ‘academic’ who has always considered himself to be a designer who slipped into teaching – and then found himself (not without delight) as a building architect . Now enjoying the luxury of being able to slither in-and-out of contexts – hoping that this approach can jolt the listener/viewer into a 'discomfort zone' amongst so much architectural culture that is too tight.

Biography

Sir Peter Cook is the visionary founder of Archigram and CRAB Studio, and former Chair of The Bartlett School of Architecture.

The Lectures 

Creative Cynicism and the Cheerful Response

Friday 13 October, 13:00
G.12

In Defence of the Big Personality

Friday 20 October, 13:00
JZ Young Lecture Theatre
G29, Anatomy Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT

Small Cities are More Fun

Friday 10 November, 13:00
JZ Young Lecture Theatre
G29, Anatomy Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT

Competitions 

Tuesday 21 November, 13:00
Elvin Hall
Institute of Education, 20 Bedford Way, Bloomsbury, London WC1H 0AL

Provinciality - the Comfort Zone?

Friday 1 December, 13:00
JZ Young Lecture Theatre
G29, Anatomy Building, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT