Types of walls: FIREWALLS

fire wall noun

Definition of fire wall

1. a wall constructed to prevent the spread of fire

2. usually firewall: computer hardware or software that prevents unauthorized access to private data (as on a company's local area network or intranet) by outside computer users (as of the internet)

Definitions by Merriam Webster Dictionary

PHYSICAL - FIREWALL

ORIGIN

The term firewall originates from the bulkhead found in a plane or a ship between the explosive and combustible engine. A firewall is then implemented there to keep the crew safe.

“Firewall” is also a term used for walls that are made to confine or limit fire spreading between different parts of a building.

FIREWALLS IN CONSTRUCTION

A physical structure that extends continuously from the foundation to or through the roof with sufficient structural stability.

HARDWARE/SOFTWARE - FIREWALL

DIGITAL FIREWALLS

Your computer's defense system against others on the internet, consisting of both hardware and software to control communications between internal and external networks.

Types including: Host based, network based, packet filtering, stateful inspection firewalls, proxy firewalls, 'next-generation' firewalls

WHAT IMPLICATIONS DOES 'FIREWALLS' HAVE FOR ARCHITECTURE?

Firewalls works on the basis of filtering which can be operated on both passive or aggressive situations. In the case of aggressive, which can be seen as 'control'; its implications on architecture would be a more forceful method of regulating boundaries. The more passive option offers protection, serving as a boundary that separates its subject. Examples of filtering are represented through architectural elements such as light, circulation and interventions that interacts with our senses.

FILTERING OF LIGHT

Alberto Campo Baeza's Caja Granada works on the filtration of light through the use of materials. Baeza's uses the translucent quality of the alabaster walls to soften the harsh Spanish sun. As a result, providing protection and comfort for the users of the building.

ARCHITECTURE'S EXERCISE OF POWER

Jeremy Bentham's design of the Panopticon serves as a device for control. The exposure of the prison cells to the centralized tower enables the guards to watch over the entirety of the prison at any moment. By preventing the prisoners from seeing the guards through the distance and small windows of the tower, Bentham creates a sociological effect whereby the prisoners disciplines themselves through the awareness of the guard's presence.

The affect of filtering information is a powerful tool used for the manipulation of the mind. In this example, Bentham showcases the power of architecture and its ability to define the physical realm and control its users.