The Comparison Between Rem Koolhaas and Peter Zumthor Architecture

referring to Aristotle and Plato Theories in Terms of Form, Ethic, and Politic.
Eistein Benedito - 6111801082

Plato and Aristotle are known as the greatest figures of western philosophy where their
philosophy still have an enormous impact towards this era, even in the architecture context. The
thoughts and theories proclaimed by the two philosophers often influence the way of thinking of
an architect, especially in the aspects of politics, form, and ethics. Furthermore, this essay will
explain the correlation between Rem Koolhaas and Peter Zumthor's architectural works with the
thoughts of Plato and Aristotle.

Considering the aspect of “form”, Rem Koolhaas tends to make a figure that displays a sense of
humanity. In this case, Rem Koolhaas also often challenges spatial exploration, which can be
seen from his work, namely Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art. Even though he is considered to
carry a modern spirit, remembering his architecture forms, imagination / ideology is often a
priority. Therefore, Rem Koolhaas may be more directed to Plato's thought of form, "Through
Mind, Not Sense Experience". It is different when compared with the architecture of Peter
Zumthor's attention to the involvement of all elements of detail. In this case, Kunsthaus for
example, where Zumthor created an airy glass cube that generates a translucent gray light. This
thinking is in line with Aristotle's thought which states that forms are not formed independently,
but rather a substantial form is an attribute of an object. In this case, Zumthor uses existing
elements, combined dramatically, logically, and harmoniously in order to be an appropriate
attribute for the architecture he is working on.

Secondly, considering the ethical aspect, Peter Zumthor often puts forward sensitivity to the
context. St. Benedict Chapel is one example where Peter Zumthor can apply local materials. In
addition, he can also use natural lighting as one element of architecture. In this case, given that
sensitivity to these elements can be created based on empirical experience, practicality, and
prioritizing common sense, it can be said that Zumthor's thoughts are quite in harmony with
Aristotle. Meanwhile, Rem Koolhaas, through his works such as CCTV HQ, is considered to
prioritize personal desires and understanding, such as Plato's thoughts.

Thirdly, considering the political aspect, remembering that Rem Koolhaas is a deconstructivist
known through his architectural work, it can be said that Rem's thinking is quite in harmony with
Plato's thought, where Plato explained that humans are small creatures who continuously try to
achieve a higher existence in a gigantic world. Meanwhile, Rem Koolhaas's spatial experience
approach, and the suitability of the context can give a political impression that emphasizes
communal interests, in line with Aristotle's thought.

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rem-Koolhaas
https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/tip-sheet/article/60264-5-reasons-why-plato
-and-aristotle-still-matter-today.html
https://www.britannica.com/story/plato-and-aristotle-how-do-they-differ
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Peter-Zumthor