In order to diminish the influence of Modern architecture which is a mechanism of “form follow function” or functionalism, Contemporary architecture has been focused on the meaning of architectural elements and forms. In the late 1970s, this situation caused in architectural forms that were more diverse approaches to design. One of the accepted approaches is the semantic system, which is a theory developed from linguistic theories within the framework of semiotics. It has spread to contemporary architectural design, including contemporary bamboo architecture. This paper aims to explore and discuss the meaning of contemporary bamboo architecture. The study applies a qualitative descriptive approach, utilizing a literature review on meaning in architecture and semiotics, four case study observations, and interviews with architects and owners. The study found that meaning in contemporary bamboo architecture is composed of 3 parts as follows: (1) the meaning of architectural elements that are related to the tropical climate and oriental living culture (2) the meaning of architectural form reveals organic conceptual design through symbol systems and a curved aerodynamic design (3) the meaning of bamboo expresses mechanical properties for construction and vision to consider using of sustainable materials. These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of meaning in architecture which is practiced for contemporary bamboo architecture and other buildings.

Authors:
Rutchanoophan Kumsingsree, Kasetsart University, Thailand
Wandee Pinijvarasin, Kasetsart University, Thailand
Ornsiri Panin, Kasetsart University, Thailand
Paramas Kamhangrittirong, Kasetsart University, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Rutchanoophan Kumsingsree is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Built Environment, at the Department of Architecture, Kasetsart University, and an Assistant Professor and lecturer at the Department of Architecture, Mahasarakham University, Thailand

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