Historically, ornament has reflected the state of countries and cities, proving to be a sign of the

times, not only for Architecture, but also in social and political discourse; a true indicator of
cultural views and attitudes during different eras. This thesis will explore the contentious topic of
ornament in architecture and its potential use as a facilitator of synergy between historic and
new construction.
Traditionally, ornament was created exclusively by artists and craftsmen who possessed a
specialized skill set, tools, and knowledge to bring concepts and ideas into the material world.
In most cases, such ornaments were only made available to the wealthy individuals who could
afford such extravagance. In present time, as we live in the age of technology and information,
its astoundingly simple for almost any individual to create exceptionally complex and unique
objects in minutes, thanks to the availability and affordability of automated digital fabrication
tools and software. As ornamental skill has been replaced by technological savviness,
ornament has re-emerged from the ashes of Modernism, claiming a relevant spot in todays
architectural discourse.
Ornament has evolved from being perceived as unnecessary decoration and recycled
symbolism. It now serves as a mechanism that connects the visible and invisible forces of
architecture and culture
1
, not only bringing synergy between the interior and exterior of
buildings, but also engaging the urban setting
2
. By creating sensations and affects
3
through its
design and function, ornament produces new images and concepts that positively affect
culture.
4
In her book, The function of ornament, Farshid Moussavi dissects dozens of case
studies that reflect the novel ideas and methods mentioned before, classifying them by depth,
material, and affect
5
. However, all of the examples illustrated in the book pertain to new
construction, additions, and smaller interior applications of ornament, some which seem to
disregard the existing urban fabric and context they are attempting to engage. Moreover, the
book does not show a single case of ornament being used in a historic or re-habilitated building.
This thesis argues that ornament can act as a facilitator of synergy not only of the
relationship between interior and exterior, but between historic and new construction in
the re-habilitation of existing historic buildings, positively engaging its existing urban
and cultural context.,

1
Moussavi, Farshid. The function of ornament
2
Moussavi, Farshid. The function of ornament
3
Moussavi, Farshid. The function of ornament
4
Moussavi, Farshid. The function of ornament
5
Moussavi, Farshid. The function of ornament
Through Antoine Picons Ornament, the history and political implications of ornament will be
analyzed in order to gain a better understanding of how it fits in todays culture and urban fabric.
Inspired by the ideas and concepts in The function of ornament the thesis will explore how
architectural ornament, designed and created using digital fabrication tools, can give new life
and meaning to abandoned and neglected historic buildings.

The project through which these ideas will be explored and tested will be the
rehabilitation of the historic Friedrich Building, located at 1617 E. Commerce St. in San Antonio,
Texas. This abandoned complex offers plenty of opportunities to explore how ornament can
mediate between historic and new, while positively addressing the context and culture
surrounding it.
Source: Google Earth
Source: Google Earth
Friedrich Building, located at 1617 E. Commerce St. San Antonio, Texas. Source: Google Earth

Rehabilitation of a historic designated industrial building. The Friedrich Building will be
developed into a mixed-use facility, incorporating both retail and housing which will improve the
decaying East side of San Antonio.


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