Gone-built Exposing an Interior Phenomenon of Ephemerality through the Exhibitions Designs of Aalto Atelier

Abstract

Built interiors do not last indefinitely, or indeed stay untouched, but interiors cannot be categorised so clearly as built and unbuilt, existing and not existing. There is another state to recognise in relation to them, and that is what this essay explores and refers to as the gone-built interior. These are interiors that were designed for a specific function for a defined period of time. During their existence they remained untouched, and while no longer physically around, they have left behind traces in archives. The remaining artefacts and ephemera of their existence allow us to investigate this phenomenon of temporariness in more detail, and consider elements of their definition that have relevance to our wider interiors discourse. They allow us to consider our processes as designers in ways that other categories of the unbuilt do not and invite experimentation and boldness of design in a way that more permanent interiors cannot. This essay uses the Finnish architectural practice the Aalto Atelier as a study, due to the form and number of exhibitions they undertook, and the long time period over which this engagement happened. It unpacks three key themes around the gone-built, in relation to their exhibition designs: elemental spolia, indicative representation, and propaganda. Finally, it demonstrates how the gone-built is an important state to understand as interior designers, and how we can use it to support our interior design ideas and practices by engaging with the opportunity for experimentation in design, sustainable practice, and dissemination of ideas it provides.