Questioning Architectural Typo-Morphology

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2026 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 13 Issue 3

Year of Publication : 2026

Authors : Purnama Salura

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I3P111

How to Cite?

Purnama Salura, "Questioning Architectural Typo-Morphology," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 13,  no. 3, pp. 160-172, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I3P111

Abstract:

A theoretical approach extensively implemented by architectural scholars is well-understood as typo-morphology. However, it is frequently known misconceptually in a simplistic manner, which is based on the empirical appearances in architectural form classification. This narrow misconception undermines its practical relevance and conceptual richness. Thus, this study emphasizes challenging this misinterpretation in reexamining the original understanding of “type” meaning proposed by Quatremère de Quincy, and on typo-morphology repositioning on the fundamental purpose of architecture. This study unveils that the final cause of architecture is referred to by the type, that is, providing spatial vessels facilitating pivotal human activities, comfort, ease, and safety. Through foregrounding type's renewed definition, this study succeeded in revising recent concepts within the major schools. This perspective is concerned with the transformative capacity and existential role of architecture, unlike either a formalist or interdisciplinary approach. Rather than sociological generalization or abstract formalism, the result of the study reveals a typological method implemented in human experience lived realities. It produces contributions by offering more context-sensitive and holistic architecture understanding for both design practice and theoretical discourse.

Keywords:

Origins of Architecture, Architecture, Typomorphological Approach, Meaning, Type.

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