“Matrixes of tradition in the work of Renzo Piano”, in AlSayyad N. (ed.) (2008), Interrogating Tradition. Epistemologies, Fundamentalisms, Regeneration, Practices,

Present advances in science and technology are contributing to the homologation of socio-cultural identities and the built environment. In particular, designs based on functional zoning and the widespread use of industrial materials and construction techniques have resulted in the standardization of living spaces and their social and environmental degradation and delegitimization. Interrogating tradition in present architectural practice seems a viable strategy for the creation of socially and culturally legitimized living spaces. Interrogating tradition means being inspired by its paradigmatic lesson of environmentally and culturally appropriate built form, which communicates meaning and results from man-environment interplay. By identifying the matrixes of tradition through theoretical reflections and analyses of case studies, this paper shows how a critical reinterpretation of traditional cultures, architectural typologies, and technologies is a crucial strategy in the design of sustainable built form. The first part of the paper interprets tradition in relation to design practices oriented toward environmental and energy efficiency. It adopts an “explorative” approach through an examination of selected works by Renzo Piano. These provide a multilevel technological and environmental interpretation of tradition: form and language; technical creativity in the service of energy and resource saving; integration of traditional with innovative materials; design and construction conceived as a permanent workshop.