_positions XVIII: Stan Allen and Scott Cohen

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The value of the information lies in the deep theoretical insights offered by two leading architects. Scott Cohen’s analysis of New Brutalism and his concept of isomorphism provide a fresh perspective on modern architecture, challenging common interpretations. His argumentation is well-structured, drawing on historical precedents and his own work to illustrate his points. Stan Allen’s contributions, though less detailed in this excerpt, add to the discussion by reflecting on his career trajectory and the role of representation. The argumentation is solid, though it is based on personal interpretation and theoretical speculation rather than empirical evidence.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The conversation demonstrates a high level of scientific rigor in its engagement with architectural theory. Both speakers reference key figures and texts, such as Reyner Banham, Colin Rowe, and Robin Evans, grounding their arguments in established discourse. The sources cited are credible within the field, though they are not formally verified. The title accurately reflects the content, as it is part of a series designed to reveal positions in architecture. The discussion is well-aligned with the series’ goals, and the title is appropriate.

The title accurately reflects the content: a conversation in the '_positions' series featuring Stan Allen and Scott Cohen.

8/10

The conversation features two prominent architects and educators discussing theoretical concepts and their own projects, grounded in historical references and personal experience. The content is intellectually rigorous but relies on subjective interpretation and anecdotal evidence rather than empirical data.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 00:00Introduction by Grace La, welcoming Stan Allen and Scott Cohen.
• 03:00Stan Allen introduces the shared history and the format of the conversation.
• 10:00Scott Cohen begins his presentation, discussing New Brutalism and Banham's principles.
• 20:00Scott Cohen introduces the concept of isomorphism and applies it to modern architecture.
• 30:00Scott Cohen presents his first project, an addition to a Miesian building at the University of Michigan.
• 40:00Scott Cohen discusses the New York skyscraper tradition and its relation to form.
• 50:00Stan Allen begins his presentation, reflecting on his career and theoretical influences.
• 1:00:00Stan Allen presents his three projects, emphasizing representation and projection.
• 1:10:00Discussion and Q&A session begins.
• 1:30:00Conclusion and closing remarks.

• Reyner Banham, 'The New Brutalism' — Scott Cohen references Banham's text on New Brutalism, discussing its principles.
• Colin Rowe, 'The Mathematics of the Ideal Villa' — Scott Cohen cites Colin Rowe's analysis of Crown Hall as a 'flat dome'.
• Robin Evans, 'The Projective Cast' — Stan Allen mentions Robin Evans's work on projection, which influenced both speakers.

• Reyner Banham, 'The New Brutalism' — Scott Cohen's interpretation aligns with Banham's original text.
• Colin Rowe, 'The Mathematics of the Ideal Villa' — The discussion of Crown Hall as a flat dome is consistent with Rowe's analysis.

• Some contemporary interpretations of New Brutalism — Scott Cohen argues that many current revivals focus on materials and structure, ignoring the principle of spatial form, which he considers a misinterpretation.