Introduction to Theory of Architecture

Introduction to Theory of Architecture

• Theory (Webster): a plausible, generally accepted principle, or body of principles, used to explain a phenomenon
• Theory (Oxford): a supposition or system of ideas intended to explain something
• Theory (Wikipedia): a contemplative, rational form of abstract generalization of thinking about a phenomenon; the results of this thinking
• Architecture (Latin): the art and science of designing and constructing buildings
• Architecture (Greek): arkhitekton (chief builder/carpenter/mason)
• Architectural Work: the product of architectural work—buildings
• Architectural Style: a method of building characteristic of a particular people, place, or historical period
• Designing: the profession of designing buildings and habitable environments
• Constructing: the process of consciously forming structures to be unified or coherent
• Building: different kinds of structure types (residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, open spaces, infrastructure)
• Theory of Architecture: the act of thinking, discussing, and writing about architecture

Elements of Design

• Point: indicates a position in space
• Line: a point extended with length, direction, and position
• Plane: a line extended with length and width, shape, surface orientation, and position
• Volume: a plane extended with length, width, and depth; form, space, and surface orientation
• Properties of form: Shape, size, color, texture

Relational Properties of Design

• Position: the form's location in relation to the environment and the visual field
• Orientation: the form's direction relative to the ground plane, other forms, or the observer
• Visual Inertia: the concentration and stability of form

Possibilities of Grouping of Form

• Spatial Tension: close proximity creating a visual relationship between adjacent forms
• Edge-to-edge Contact: forms sharing a common edge
• Face-to-face Contact: forms with corresponding parallel planar surfaces within their relationship
• Interlocking Volumes: forms that penetrate each other's space

Organization of Form

• Centralized Form: many secondary forms clustered around a central dominant form, clustered around a dominant, central parent-form
• Linear Form: sequential arrangement of forms in a row
• Radial Form: forms extending outwards from a central point
• Clustered Form: forms grouped together by proximity or visual trait
• Grid Form: modular forms related and governed by a three-dimensional grid

Principles of Design

• Balance (Symmetrical): the left half of a design is identical to the right; complete symmetry, identical to the right half
• Balance (Radial): symmetrical from a center point
• Balance (Asymmetrical): different form, but equal weight
• Rhythm: repetition of design elements (lines, shapes and forms)
• Emphasis: a specific motif or design element stands out
• Proportion: the relationship in size between spaces and masses relative to the human body
• Scale: how we perceive the size of a component in relation to other components
• Contrast: creates visual variation, excitement, and interest
• Unity: creating a harmonious impression by using elements in a logical manner; repetition and accent

Light, Color, and Texture

• Light: defined as the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that humans can perceive
• Brightness: the amount of light given off by a light source
• Saturation: intensity of a color
• Hue: the name of a color
• Color: additive (builds colors by adding light), subtractive (builds colors by subtracting light)
• Texture: expresses quality of materials and their effect on light

The Vitruvian Triad

• Firmitas: strength, solidity, and durability of a building
• Utilitas: building's functionality and response to inhabitants' needs
• Venustas: aesthetics and beauty

Spatial Theories

• Anthropometrics: comparative study of the measurements and capabilities of the human body
• Static Anthropometry: measuring body sizes at rest and when using objects
• Functional Anthropometry: measurement of capabilities used to complete tasks

Classical Orders

• Every building follows an order that mimics proportions of the human body.

Modular

• The modulor system is a proportioning system related to human measurements.

Ken

• (Traditional Japanese unit of measure)

Theories of Proportion (specifically Golden Ratio)

• A proportioning system in which small parts relate to the whole. Golden ratio = 1.618