top of page

FICTIONAL AGRICULTURAL ATLAS, 2024

This fictional atlas revisits agricultural architecture by incorporating various architectural and artistic styles, such as Constructivism, Deconstructivism, Organic, and Postmodernism, enhanced by mural interventions. It explores structures originally designed for agricultural purposes, as well as abandoned buildings repurposed for farming.
By deconstructing traditional volumes, this project explores new forms and tensions, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of rural architecture.

​​

VERNACULAR Vernacular architecture refers to buildings commonly found in a specific region or territory during a particular era, reflecting local knowledge, materials, and cultural traditions. To begin this exploration of agricultural typologies, the traditional form of the barn is enhanced with mural interventions, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of this rural heritage ​

EXPRESSIONISM Historical references and colors fade, volumes deconstruct, function becomes elusive, and fiction takes center stage. Here, agricultural architecture is both expressive and brutalist!​ ​

FUNCTIONALISM Functionalism is an architectural movement that upheld the idea that form should follow function, although this notion was often used to justify the minimalist lines favored by modernist architects. In these agricultural structures, there is a closer alignment with the original concept of functionalism, where forms are dictated by use, even if their precise function remains enigmatic. As Viollet-le-Duc aptly stated, "We must seek the reason behind every form, for every form has its reason." ​​

TERATOLOGISM Teratological architecture refers to spectacular and monumental projects, often created by "starchitects," that challenge traditional architectural norms and standards. These works, both shocking and captivating, push the boundaries of what is possible through their formal audacity and scale. In this vein, fictional agricultural architectures take a bold turn: they transform into imposing sculptures that defy expectations tied to their original function. These creations question both the aesthetic and cultural values of contemporary architecture and the role of rurality in a globalized world. ​

DE STIJL In these agricultural structures made from reclaimed materials, the spirit of De Stijl finds an unexpected resonance. From recovered fragments, the approach is centered around geometric compositions where each material, despite its varied history, finds its place in formal harmony. The lines and volumes, sometimes restrained and sometimes bold, echo the quest for balance that was central to the De Stijl movement. Here, the geometric forms are adorned with autumnal hues, the patina of time, adding a nostalgic softness to the rigorous abstraction… ​

ANTIQUE Here, agricultural architecture incorporates columns and pediments, elements inspired by the Greek temple, enriched by mural interventions. These compositions recall the earliest forms of Greek architecture dedicated to the god: primitive huts of sun-dried brick with wooden columns, initially hidden inside, then gradually revealed on the facade. These columns and suspended volumes subtly evoke the works of a certain Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, known as Le Corbusier. ​

DESTRUCTIVISM For the title of this section, I hesitated between the terms "constructivist" and "deconstructivist," but the neologism "destructivism," derived from "destructuration"—although it does not designate a formal movement—seemed more appropriate. This approach aims to deconstruct traditional forms to create complex and sometimes chaotic volumes, while preserving a recognizable trace of the architectural archetype. ​

POSTMODERNISM Postmodern architecture emerged as a reaction to the austerity and minimalism of modernism. It reintroduced ornamental elements, historical references, and often a touch of humor or irony in building design. This playful approach is what shapes the reinterpretation of agricultural archetypes in these fictional architectures. But in the end, isn’t this entire body of work itself resolutely postmodern, much like our era? ​

UPCYCLING In this section dedicated to agricultural structures, ingenuity takes center stage: adaptation, repurposing, and reuse. A spirit of resourcefulness emerges as a guiding philosophy, breathing new life into these architectures. Stripped of their original function, they are transformed to meet new needs, embodying creativity and a pragmatic approach. A true ode to resilience and inventiveness!

TRASH It was difficult to conclude this series dedicated to agricultural structures on an entirely positive note. Each creation, each reuse, carries a part of history, resilience, but also a shadow of disillusionment. This final section, titled ‘Trash,’ reflects the limits of the transformation process. I believe it’s unnecessary to say more, allowing the images to speak for themselves and invite personal reflection ​

©2025 XAVIER DELORY - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 

bottom of page