A Toolbox for Iconic Architecture

The study explores how creation of iconic architecture can be intentionally facilitated using the toolbox inherent in the competition system. The study defines iconicity as a status a building may gain through intentional process of iconification with participation of the client providing prerequisites, the architect shaping iconic features, the users assigning symbolic values and driving recognition and finally the public acknowledging and celebrating the icon. It is argued that iconicity is never absolute, its span being limited by temporal and social aspects that may expand or contract the span of iconicity, confirming or revoking a building’s status as architectural icon. When employed in the process, competitions provide structure and tools for the first half of iconification work, thus laying the foundation for iconicity. Proficient management of these tools is fundamental for successful iconification. The study contemplates meaning and role of iconic architecture as an inspiring cultural and temporal landmark of the future as it is envisioned today. Attempts are made to construct a framework for further study of iconicity for theorists and provide an iconification toolbox for practitioners. This paper is based on inductive modeling of iconification process based on a case stud