Search for conceptual framework in architectural works of Muzharul Islam

Abstract

The thesis originated from the intention to examine a key architect of this country and his practical enterprises in the light of investigations whether his philosophies and practical endeavours have any bearing on contemporary thought and influence current theory and practices of architecture. Work of Muzharul Islam as case studies, it tries to explore the conceptual framework bearing on his own quest for relevancy and roots in architecture. In conclusion, the thesis shows that, despite the shorter period of his active involvement in the profession, the work of Muzharul Islam demonstrated an advancement of framing concepts derived from the vocabulary of certain contemporary western masters towards a more personal style. At the most abstract level, this advancement can be stated as a resultant effect of a dialectic process reflected through a progression of experiments carried out from his earlier work to the work of the late phase. This dialectic process can be summarised as a philosophical devise of 'causality' theory: having two factors acting together as a 'cause', and its 'effect' as a resultant phenomenon. The 'cause' factors are: 1) the knowledge of Modem Architecture in his formative period in the western countries and 2) the knowledge of adaptive techniques, he contrived in the practical application. The resultant 'effect' of the 'cause' shows that the architectural value in Muzharul Islam's work exists in the synthesis of modernist inspiration and the inspiration emanating from his attitude towards the creation of a unity in mediating the conflicts and contradictions between modernist and traditionalist rules of expression.