Architecture and Identity of Cultural Spaces

Abstract

Architecture is the result of a multifaceted process that is affected by a myriad of factors. Therefore, a multidisciplinary team of professionals is necessary to conduct really exhaustive architectural study. At the Technical University of Vienna (TU Wien), a collection of courses named "Cultural Spaces - Research on Architecture and Identity" has been designed to pique the curiosity of architecture students in conducting their own independent research. Using the 2016 class as an example, this article will outline the research approach that is covered throughout the course of the module. The historic cores of Berat and Gjirokastra, both located in Albania, were the focus of this course. Integrity and individuality in both the community and the built environment are the result of the interplay between culture and identity. In this age of globalization, it is more important than ever to build a skyline that symbolizes a people's culture and history. Such a connection may be used to shape a building into a symbol of one's cultural heritage.