SUPER-POSITIONS is supported by four academics with common scientific concerns and complementary research profiles. The organizational chart of the laboratory reflects this multiplicity of views. Founded on the notions of exchange and collaboration, its structure is designed to be horizontal. The strategic research axes result from a shared vision, and are communicated by an annually appointed spokesperson. The transversal approach of SUPER-POSITIONS encourages collaborations with other research groups of LAB, as well as others within or outside UCLouvain.
History - Headed by Beatrice Lampariello, this group within Super-Positions is dedicated to the analysis and history of architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries. The focus is on a kind of architecture that can be understood as the expression of a vision. This vision is directed either towards the creation of a specific type of structure or construction, or towards the generation of innovative project forms on both the building and city scales. Utilizing archival research, the group delves into structural visions, poetics, and ideals that have played a pivotal role in shaping the conceptualization of novel ways of life.
Preservation - Headed by Giulia Marino, this group focuses on preservation project, departing from its material history and a comprehensive analysis of the built environment. The scientific activities are based on two complementary and strongly intertwined fields of research: the history of materials, construction techniques and comfort equipment of the 20th century, as well as project strategies for preserving modern and contemporary heritage, with regard to current environmental issues.
Theory – Headed by Nele De Raedt, this group employs analysis and history to study theories and practices of architecture in the late medieval and early modern period (1400-1700). The focus is mainly on the built environment of the city, which the group studies from diverse angles. Using a wide variety of sources (such political poems, ethical treatises, legal contracts, city maps) this group of researchers study how various actors have shaped (ideas on) the city and its buildings.
Urbanism – Headed by Chiara Cavalieri, this groups explores the city and the territory through analysis and design. The main focus is on environmental urbanism, with research ranging from collective and institutional resource management to community-based practices and a systemic understanding of (water) infrastructure. By merging open-source data with fieldwork-collected information, this group extensively employs thick cartographies, descriptions, atlases, prototypes, and scenarios as research tools.
For more information about our activities, see also www.super-positions.org