Palimpsestuous : Layered Narrative

The palimpsestic nature in architectural practice is an inevitable part of design process. The thesis acknowledges the value of iterative nature in design process, often overlooked in today’s practice pursuing perfection and finalised product, to understand that every layer of design contributes to a richer narrative. 

"Palimpsest of trace — erasure — inscription — re-inscription ... absence created by presence ... presence created by absence..." 

^{(Jacques Derrida, Memories for Paul De Man)}

Through examining layered drawings that have been accumulated, it explores the richness of stratified knowledge that conceals or intensifies itself from the layers of drawings, leaving traces of what is exposed or obscured through the acts of erasure, imprinting, and the blurred qualities of overlapping translucent layers.

The new layer imprinted onto the site serves as a spatial medium, fostering dynamic interaction between people, the ruins, and nature. This intervention encourages exploration and engagement with the ruins in new and unpredictable ways, deeply engaging and contributing with the 'palimpsest.' Irregular paths and staircases are woven both within and around the ruins, guiding visitors along unexpected trajectories, offering fresh perspectives, exposing hidden areas of the site, while simultaneously obscuring others.