Metaphysics and identity in architecture: Peter Eisenman's Wexner Center for the Arts as case study

The aim of this paper is to discuss the impact of metaphysical content in the formation of architecture, which subsequently confers identity within the urban context of the city. This metaphysical content includes the visions and perceptions that seek to explain the existence of God (absolute) and the universe, as well as the content of metaphysics and religious beliefs in the formulation of the identity of architecture. Thus, through critical analysis of artefacts of contemporary architecture, the impact and manifestations of metaphysics in the formation of architectural features and notation can be studied. This research selects Peter Eisenman's Wexner Centre for the Arts, Columbus, Ohio, USA, as an example with which to study the relationship between the representation of metaphysical factors and architectural identity in the modern era. The research follows an analytical methodology to study the terminology and build on the knowledge of semiology, which basically depends on the translation of forms and physical symbols. The research also depends on the philosophy of interpretation and explanation to extrapolate the impact of metaphysical reflection in all elements of design such as horizontal projections and three-dimensional design, as well as details and vocabulary that have left their impact on the drafting process and configuration. The main purpose of the research is to analyse the relationship between the metaphysical religious content and the identity of contemporary architecture.