Structural Typologies — Parking Structures
Instructor(s):
Olivier Goethals & Floris De Bruyn
Engagement:
Craftsmanship
Location:
Gent
Language:
Nederlands
Semester:
Semester 1, herfst 2025
Description:
This studio investigates the architectural and symbolic potential of parking structures—often dismissed as mundane infrastructure. Building on previous research into typologies such as palazzi and gas stations, students will explore the parking garage as a resilient and transformable urban form. Through observation, typological analysis, and design transformation, the studio reimagines these structures for a future beyond car dominance, integrating housing and public programs while respecting the original structural logic.
Line of Inquiry:
Practice as Study
Topic, Thematic Focus:
Structural systems, urban infrastructure, transformation, reuse, mixed-use architecture
Typological Research / Adaptive Reuse /
Key Questions or Provocations:
How can parking structures be reimagined as adaptive, mixed-use urban forms?
What architectural qualities lie hidden in utilitarian typologies?
How can typological clarity support transformative design?
Methodologies or Formats:
Field observation, typological drawing, axonometric analysis, model-making, design transformation, lecture series with artists
Design / Expected Outcome(s):
Each team will propose a transformation of an existing parking structure into a hybrid project combining housing and public functions. Designs will emphasize structural clarity, spatial richness, and future adaptability.
Deliverables:
Architectural drawings (plans and elevations), physical model (with contrasting materials), high-resolution vertical image (7×9), documentation of typological and design process
- Find the full studio brief as pdf here.