Renaissance Architecture PDF

HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE Topic: Renaissance WHAT IS THE RENAISSANCE? The Renaissance means "rebirth" and was a period of renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman culture. In architecture, it represented a shift away from Gothic styles to more balanced and...

HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE Topic: Renaissance WHAT IS THE RENAISSANCE? The Renaissance means "rebirth" and was a period of renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman culture. In architecture, it represented a shift away from Gothic styles to more balanced and harmonious forms inspired by classical antiquity. This period also saw the rise of humanism, emphasizing the human experience and the potential for creativity and achievement. WHAT IS RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTURE? Time Period: Renaissance architecture flourished between the 14th and 17th centuries. It marked a revival of classical Greek and Roman principles in art and architecture. The movement began in Italy, particularly in cities like Florence and Rome, before spreading across Europe. Focused on symmetry, proportion, geometry, and the use of classical columns and domes. PERIODS OF RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTURE Early Renaissance (14th - 15th Century) Focused on reviving classical Roman forms, particularly in Florence. Key Architect: Filippo Brunelleschi, who pioneered the use of mathematical perspective and designed the dome of Florence Cathedral. High Renaissance (Late 15th - Early 16th Century) Marked by the perfection of classical forms and harmony in architecture. Emphasized grandeur, balance, and unity in building designs. Key Architects: Donato Bramante and Michelangelo, who worked on St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Late Renaissance (Mannerism, Mid 16th - 17th Century) Architects experimented with proportions and classical forms, often breaking traditional rules to create more complex and dynamic structures. Key Architect: Giorgio Vasari, known for his innovative use of decoration and space. DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTURE Symmetry and Proportion Buildings were designed with perfect symmetry and proportions based on mathematical ratios. Columns and Pilasters Inspired by Greek and Roman orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns were commonly used. Rounded Arches Renaissance architects favored round arches rather than the pointed arches of Gothic architecture. Domes Large, majestic domes like that of Florence Cathedral became key features. Façades Elegant, balanced, and often decorated with columns or pilasters. Ornamentation Classical motifs such as wreaths, scrolls, and geometric patterns adorned buildings. Types: Classical Columns and Arabesques Pilasters Rustication Friezes and Reliefs Acanthus Leaves Cornices Coats of Arms and Pediments Heraldry Scrolls (Volutes) Festoon and Swag RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURES Florence Cathedral (Il Duomo) Location: Florence, Italy Architect: Filippo Brunelleschi Distinct Feature: Its massive dome was the largest in the world at the time, and its innovative construction technique made it an architectural marvel. St. Peter's Basilica Location: Vatican City, Rome Architects: Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini Distinct Feature: A combination of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with a grand dome designed by Michelangelo. Palazzo Medici Location: Florence, Italy Architect: Michelozzo di Bartolomeo Distinct Feature: A perfect example of a Renaissance palace with a rusticated stone exterior and refined upper stories. FAMOUS RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTS Filippo Leon Battista Brunelleschi Alberti Designing the His treatise on dome of Florence architecture "De Cathedral, a Re Aedificatoria" breakthrough in and his work on architectural the façade of engineering. Santa Maria Novella in Florence. Donato Michelangelo Bramante Buonarroti The design of St. His His work on the Peter's Basilica Sistine Chapel and and the Tempietto the dome of St. in Rome. Peter’s Basilica. RENAISSANCE BUILDING STRUCTURES Entablature A horizontal structure supported by columns, consisting of three main parts: the architrave (bottom), the frieze (middle), and the cornice (top). Provides a decorative and functional element that unifies the façade. Cornices Frieze Architrave The cornice is the uppermost section of an The frieze is the middle section of an The architrave is the lowest section of an entablature, projecting outward from the entablature, located between the cornice entablature, directly resting on the columns. wall. and the architrave. Pedimented Window Surrounds A horizontal structure supported by columns, consisting of three main parts: the architrave (bottom), the frieze (middle), and the cornice (top). Provides a decorative and functional element that unifies the façade. Quoins Large, often rusticated stone blocks at the corners of a building, visually reinforcing its structure. They provide a sense of strength and solidity and can also add texture and contrast to the façade. Cornice-like Window Head The tops of windows are sometimes adorned with a cornice-like element, creating a visual cap that adds depth and detail. Stone Walls Renaissance buildings often feature smooth, finely dressed stone walls, reflecting the era’s focus on classical beauty and precision. This finish contrasts with the more textured surfaces of earlier Gothic architecture. THANK YOU Mamano, Lance Pelaez, Danica Toledo, Renan