ABSTRACT
The ‘refuge and prospect’ idea is ubiquitous; perhaps so much so that people take it for granted. But it is useful to consider its architectural implications and potential. There are countless examples of refuges designed in relation to prospects. Such might be no more than a bench under a tree on a golf course or garden, or on a terrace overlooking the ocean in a seaside town. Architecture is not confined within the boundaries of its immediate site. It may not be able to alter physically things which are outside of its control – for example, distant landscape features or a forest on neighbouring land – but it can borrow or frame them, and by doing so incorporate them, however remote they may be, into itself. Some years ago the artist Reiko Aoyagi took over a small gallery in Cardiff. All furniture was removed and every surface painted grey. Lights were switched off.
