Instrumental rationality and contemporary reality: the needs for spatial standards in architecture

Abstract

The essence of the problem considered in this paper, is recognized in deterioration of public and residential space in the city, after the transition and deregulation of architecture and construction in Serbia. This field is marked now by increasing lack of rules-expecially spatial standards in the architectural praxis. The paper, thus, gives the answer to the following question: why contemporary architectural practice in Serbia does not insist on standards for the design and planning any more? Architecture in the neoliberal context is principally engaged in improving profession, with the aim to respond to market demands in consumer society. In this sense, it insists on distinctive position - the ability of architect to convince clients in the unique forms of space produced by him. This approach is commercial based – it corresponds to the demands of content/use, and results in profitting. Since the production of space is powered by mighty individuals who tend to be unique and to manifest the power, the use of spatial standards in architecture is not welcome any more. However, neo-marxist orientation tries to revive the critical reflection of reality, and its main task is to define the standards and types derived from the spatial context. It insists on the public areas and projects, on comfortable housing, which will guarantee the integration in the urban fabric, as well as the development of the social life of residents. The uniqueness of both approaches, theoretical and practical, is the requirement that the profession needs. A clear visibility of the objectives and method are needed for problem solving, in order to overcome urban decline in space for clients. The wider population with common set of criteria/standards should influence the architectural theory and practice. Finally, the both ideological orientation mentioned are based on those who produce city space, not on those who makes speculations with it.