Introduction

This introduction chapter presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The concept of industrialised architecture does not in itself point towards a specific architectural expression or appearance of a specific architectural style. To deal with industrialised architecture as field of research should not be seen as a direct promotion of organisation, processes and results falling within this category as being something particularly conducive for the architectural result. The discussion of industrialisation of construction and industrialised architecture can be diverted from a dialectic perspective of pros and cons towards a focus on potentials and perspectives of a conscious and critically well-balanced application of industrial logic in construction and architecture. In general the subject of industrialisation within construction seems more prevalent in Western industrialised countries, such as those in Northern Europe or similar climates where the weather factor combined with high labour costs encourages the development of more automated and off-site dominated production techniques.