Parasitic Architecture: Theory and Practice of the Postmodern Era

Abstract

Contemporary use of the term parasitic architecture refers to a wide scope of small scale architectonic “additions” to existing buildings. Legal and illegal, temporary and permanent, they all expand volumes of their hosts and sometimes develop their functions. The parasitic function, due to cities’ density, growing homelessness and immigration problems seems to divert the aim of the trend from artistic manifestations to social actions. Gradually the scope of the problems solved by parasites increases and discussion on the phenomena develops. The first developments distorting volumes of listed buildings were signed up by star-architects. Acceptation of sometimes outrageous changes seems to pave the way for architectural parasites. Applied methodology of the research focuses on finding historical justifications of the discussed phenomena and to investigate the forms of parasitic inclusions as well as possible influence of this trend. The methods involved included studies of literature, professional web pages, and research in situ.