IN-PERSON: Prague – Section A

Abstract

The recent history of architecture has known fluctuation. Modern edifices in Casablanca are the reflection of international debates. The 1953 Aix-en-Provence conference of the CIAM emphasized the consideration of local habits of shantytown residents as a new stage for the collective thinking, congregating other similar opinions on the distinctiveness and the uniqueness of the urban habitat. During this congress, “Team Ten” members convinced a panel of modernists that the adaptable criteria became an important part of the design process. As a corollary to the Athens Charter, within the scope of the Charter of Habitat in the early 1950s, ‘Team Ten’ viewed architecture as a way that gradually allows people to embrace a modern lifestyle and uses comfort to encourage specific physical, cultural and social behavior. Standing up to the hegemonic modernist doctrine, ‘Team Ten’ architects were able to reshape most of the movement principles in order to be partially adapted to the local dwellers. However, soon after the projects’ completion, the inhabitants transformed the buildings.The action of dwelling refers to place-making, the creation of an additional value; the appropriation process. The sense of belonging is one of the most important values in a person’s life. The inhabitant’s modifications better fit their needs and therefore are adapted to their way of living. In order to engage with these fundamental notions, this study focuses on two of the most transformed modernist edifices located in outlying districts of Casablanca: Semiramis (1953), Nid d’Abeille (1953). The modernist doctrine has a major influence on the architectural design in a colonial context in the city of Casablanca. The paradox of appropriation is a reference to one’s identity and to the vocation to universalize. This study provides a nuanced and daring approach on crossbreeding and globalization, which have played an important part in the formal recognition of the 20th century heritage in Morocco.