Architecture in reality is perceived mainly through the display of space enclosures of different degrees, ranging from complete enclosure to openness. These degrees of enclosure are characterized either by subtle or often exuberant display of interplay between solids and voids. Mass and wall are the key features that play an important role in the formation of any specific relationship that develops between solids and voids.
The level of relationship between wall and mass therefore is critical in shaping the overall appearance of the work. As we look back in time, walls were simply used as means of enclosing the space that was to hold specific functions. Here the obvious priority is assigned to the space and the walls are simply enslaved in order of hierarchy. But, as the history of the built environment progressed with time, this pattern of relationship was challenged and being experimented by various architects. The experiments ranged from subtle variations in the thickness of wall with regard to the associated mass, or by emphasizing its existence by the use of varying height, color, texture, etc., or even by separating it from the mass that was believed to be the mother form in earlier days. Instead of being secondary to the space it enclosed, walls started taking the primary role in terms of announcing its existence.
This change in the pattern of relationship plays a major role in developing the formal language of modern architecture which needs to be acknowledged. The aim of this paper is to reinvent wall in terms of certain deviations in the pattern of relationship with mass with reference to some of the significant works of 20th century. The effectiveness of 3D computer modeling and various animation techniques to represent these analytical ideas together in a non-linear format is another highlight of the presentation.
