Week 11: The globalisation of modern architecture: the impact of politics, economics and social change on architecture and urban design since 1900, Robert Adam, 2012, p7-29
The first example of connecting different parts of the world came from the Homo sapiens. ‘’In relation to each segment of the earth, different people have different native lands. But in relation to the whole circuit of this world, the entire earth is a single native land for everyone, and the world a single home,’’ said Diogenes of Oenoanda (page 9). The Greek philosopher is trying to put across a point; although us humans say that we come from a particular place in the world and own things; we actually don’t. This is because we are all humans which only belong to one world just like the things we own.
While the ancient empires were against globalisation, connections were made from trading goods. The two major groups were Christians and Muslims. Religion and power were two very important things in those years. It showed the importance of people. Then came culture which was also defined as architecture. Classical architecture was spread ‘from North Africa to England’ (page 9) by the Roman Empire.
Until late 1600’s religion was the most important thing to people. It restricted people’s views and acts which became a problem all around the world. English Philosopher John Locke wrote in 1689, ‘’every man has a property in his own person: this no-body has any right but to himself’’ (page 11). There were no human rights at those times. Religion was taking over everything.
While the ancient empires were against globalisation, connections were made from trading goods. The two major groups were Christians and Muslims. Religion and power were two very important things in those years. It showed the importance of people. Then came culture which was also defined as architecture. Classical architecture was spread ‘from North Africa to England’ (page 9) by the Roman Empire.
Until late 1600’s religion was the most important thing to people. It restricted people’s views and acts which became a problem all around the world. English Philosopher John Locke wrote in 1689, ‘’every man has a property in his own person: this no-body has any right but to himself’’ (page 11). There were no human rights at those times. Religion was taking over everything.
This reading does not relate to the studio project I am undertaking at the moment. I am focusing on a particular site in Nottingham and the relationship it has with the city.
This book may be useful for future projects when I will be looking at international links between particular architecture.
This book may be useful for future projects when I will be looking at international links between particular architecture.
Week 12: Modern Architecture, Alan Colquhoun, 2002, p73-86
Adolf
Loos is one of the important names in Modern architecture. Loos was an
influential role model for many architects, including Le
Corbusier. He was present at the time of the Art Nouveau and Jugendstil
movement; but was against it. He believed that art and architecture shouldn’t
come together. Art should be presented through paintings not
buildings. Artists shouldn't be mixed with craftsmen.
He did not use ornaments or decorations in his designs, but selected very expensive, high quality materials- brass, marble, teak etc. The main focus was the interiors of buildings. He designed plain simple exteriors which was a contrast with the internal spaces. The elements used in his architecture create personal stories as one takes a journey through it. Some of his principles are used today to minimise material cost and use the advanced technology. Loos has his own ideas and way of producing designs which is an important aspect of project 1. We have to have our own concept and style to tell a story of the Canal. His general approach to architecture doesn’t relate to my current project because the aim is to develop an idea/concept and not look at the buildings and their functions. |
Week 13: The Russian Revolutionary: Zaha Hadid
‘The end and the beginning’.
The Russian Kazimir Malevich, who was an influential figure has also influenced Zaha Hadid’s work which she produces today. Originally being part of Cubism and Primitive art, Suprematism was his own movement, which showed extreme reduction and simplicity. This was a new language made from coloured shapes.
‘The Architect is by nature always abstract but life sets him the task to build his abstract forms. Situate them in such a way that useful space for life may form itself amidst them.’ Kazimir Malevich, 1924 All the things she discovered was through abstraction, which shows how her mind works. Just like Malevich, Hadid has created her own style which has never been seen before- Futurism. This movement allowed her to think who she is and what she actually wants to be. Not following the traditional rules of architecture has freed her in this field. |
Room- 0.10 Exhibition, 1915
The placing of the black square was a symbol to Malevich because in the Russian culture that spot would be for an icon. Art critiques were against this, as it was known as a religious spot. Hadid has also created a similar approach. She gets many criticisms on her work; because of her rules in construction. |
The art made her think about weightlessness in architecture. She took Malevich’s sculpture (Architecton A) and architecturally interpreted it. Her proposals also look like suprematism paintings. They are filled with abstract shapes and unique compositions. Zaha Hadid is really interested in the detail and meaning of Kazimir Malevich’s artwork. The fragmentation, views, colours, composition, sizes, shapes all have a unique meaning to her. She believes that with generous engineering and well thought structure a building can look like its floating.
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Daniel Libeskind who is a constructivist architect has a similar style to Zaha Hadid. He doesn't use the principles of construction and designs very angular, strong and geometric buildings which all have a unique idea and meaning.
Both Hadid's and Malevich's abstract style relate to my current project. I have chosen to tell a story of The Canal through geometry. I have worked with the shapes and patterns in the site and produced drawings which minimised the geometry and allowed me to develop my final design.
Both Hadid's and Malevich's abstract style relate to my current project. I have chosen to tell a story of The Canal through geometry. I have worked with the shapes and patterns in the site and produced drawings which minimised the geometry and allowed me to develop my final design.
Week 14: Bauhaus 1919-1933: Weimar-Dessau-Berlin, Michael Siebenbrodt & Lutz Schobe, 2009, p188-204
The
Bauhaus which was a school in Germany taught artists not to be afraid to try
new things. It was believed that architects need to understand all aspects of a
building from the art to engineering. This would be a way to design well and for
buildings to have a strong purpose to survive. Buildings which were designed by
the members of the Bauhaus, thought about every single element. The building
would fit its context and every piece of furniture would suit the building and its
function.
The main aim was to show people that art did not only consist of drawings and paintings. Every student tried all the types of classes and workshops the Bauhaus had. It gave them knowledge about all the aspects of art to ‘embrace architecture and sculpture and painting in one unity’.
In my future designs I would like to use similar principles to create successful buildings. I believe that a building must fits its context. This is what makes a design part of the environment which it is in. Even if an architect is designing several buildings for the same company, the buildings should not be identical. The context in which it is in and the users will be different, which means there must be alterations for it to fit into the surrounding area.
The main aim was to show people that art did not only consist of drawings and paintings. Every student tried all the types of classes and workshops the Bauhaus had. It gave them knowledge about all the aspects of art to ‘embrace architecture and sculpture and painting in one unity’.
In my future designs I would like to use similar principles to create successful buildings. I believe that a building must fits its context. This is what makes a design part of the environment which it is in. Even if an architect is designing several buildings for the same company, the buildings should not be identical. The context in which it is in and the users will be different, which means there must be alterations for it to fit into the surrounding area.
Week 15: Architecture and Narrative: The Formation of Space and Cultural Meaning, Mahbub Rashid, 08/2010, p43-64
People
who are not closely related to and architectural profession see buildings through
their functions. Mies van der Rohe says that buildings are seen differently
after they are explained by the designer. The Barcelona Pavilion was seen as an
unsuccessful and meaningless piece of architecture. When people were informed
with the reasons and perceptions of Van der Rohe, they looked and understood
the building in a different way.
An example of a great architectural problem is The Guggenheim
Museum. It has received many criticisms about its functionality. The building
itself has been designed as an artwork which presents art pieces in it. The
angled walls have not been approved by some people; as the effect the work
which is displayed.
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Mies van der Rohe has focused a lot on symmetry,
proportion and geometry. He has controlled the circulation of people within the
building by placing partition walls and changing the floor and ceiling levels. The
Onyx Doree patrician wall is said to be the main focus of the building which
wraps around it.
Vision played a huge role in Mies’s designs. He thought that a building should be designed with the perspectives and visual reflections one can get. Selective viewing point and materials supported this theory. The reflections from walls plays with the eye, making it seem like a bigger space than it actually is. One of his aims were to create a space where each individual can create a meaning and interpret it differently through their own experiences (phenomenology) and the properties of the building.
The idea of focusing on the aesthetics rather than the function does relate to my bridge project. Although I have to have design which functions and meets the clients needs; the meanings of particular design solutions are more important at this stage. I have linked my outcomes from project 1 into project 2, which has led to the circulation and shapes within the design.
I disagree with 'form follows function' because a building does not always have to be shaped around the purpose or user group it has. The use of a building could change. Not every building has the same client throughout it's life span which means that it is better to have a design which is not focused on a particular thing.
Vision played a huge role in Mies’s designs. He thought that a building should be designed with the perspectives and visual reflections one can get. Selective viewing point and materials supported this theory. The reflections from walls plays with the eye, making it seem like a bigger space than it actually is. One of his aims were to create a space where each individual can create a meaning and interpret it differently through their own experiences (phenomenology) and the properties of the building.
The idea of focusing on the aesthetics rather than the function does relate to my bridge project. Although I have to have design which functions and meets the clients needs; the meanings of particular design solutions are more important at this stage. I have linked my outcomes from project 1 into project 2, which has led to the circulation and shapes within the design.
I disagree with 'form follows function' because a building does not always have to be shaped around the purpose or user group it has. The use of a building could change. Not every building has the same client throughout it's life span which means that it is better to have a design which is not focused on a particular thing.
Week 16: Garden cities of to-morrow, Ebenezer Howard, p151-159
'Homes are being erected' (p.151) which means that the increase in rent prices create a need to migrate from London to a cheaper place. This has an effect to the people who choose to stay in London because the increase in tenants would mean that the existing flats would need to increase rent prices. This then creates problems in housing and employment.
On the other side migration may also have a positive impact on people who stay because they would be able to buy or rent bigger houses which would be affordable; as tenants need them. 'The late chairman of the London Count Council (Lord Rosebery) declared that the growth of this huge city was fitly comparable to the growth of a tumour', p.152. The London County Council are now trying to cut down cost as much as possible. An example of this is The Epping Forest Railway. They can not be wasting money on workers to build and maintain the station. They are trying to keep the fares as low as possible which is making it harder to find jobs with reasonable pay. |
Week 17: Nurturing dreams: collected essays on architecture and the city, Fumihiko Maki & Mark Mulligan, 2008, p180-192
The Le Corbusier
Syndrome began in late 1920s. He was the icon of modern architecture. Many
architects went to Europe to study his work and have a closer look. In the
post-war period both the world and his ideas changed. He brought change into
Japanese architecture and was one of the main inspirations.
Foreign architecture had a huge impact on Japanese architecture. There were two main styles in which things were built; the orthodox western and modern western. The orthodox style didn’t express the Japanese style which led to a modern approach. This used elements of Japanese architecture in a modern way, with new technology and new materials. The buildings consisted of mainly bamboo and wood. Today it can be seen that the traditions of Japanese architecture has decreased. Concrete, steel and glass has been the three main materials used in construction, which is commonly used in Corbusier’s designs.
Architects design modern buildings with the context and their elements in mind.
I believe that not all buildings have to fit into context because if they all did then there would be identical buildings. This aspect is what makes every building unique in some way. In my current project my design does not aesthetically fit into context but has elements and meanings behind it which links to the site.
Foreign architecture had a huge impact on Japanese architecture. There were two main styles in which things were built; the orthodox western and modern western. The orthodox style didn’t express the Japanese style which led to a modern approach. This used elements of Japanese architecture in a modern way, with new technology and new materials. The buildings consisted of mainly bamboo and wood. Today it can be seen that the traditions of Japanese architecture has decreased. Concrete, steel and glass has been the three main materials used in construction, which is commonly used in Corbusier’s designs.
Architects design modern buildings with the context and their elements in mind.
I believe that not all buildings have to fit into context because if they all did then there would be identical buildings. This aspect is what makes every building unique in some way. In my current project my design does not aesthetically fit into context but has elements and meanings behind it which links to the site.
Week 18: Peter Smithson: conversations with students : a space for our generation, Peter Smithson, Catherine Spellman & Karl Unglaub, 2005, p9-32; 72-89
Peter Smithson talks about the
things he has done modern architecture and how it will affect the future
generations. At a younger age he was not interested in history and how
buildings evolved. He wanted to focus on the future and try to change things.
As he became older he started to gain more interest in history and why the
world of architecture is like this today. He studies architecture from
different periods which gave him ideas to carry on forward.
In my opinion I believe that the past should always be considered when designing a building. Both the land and the surrounding area must be researched in order to design successfully. Although history is important, it shouldn’t get in the way of an architects ambitions. Considering some aspects is useful but every designer is different which means that if something didn’t work in the past there is no reason it cannot work in the future.
In my opinion I believe that the past should always be considered when designing a building. Both the land and the surrounding area must be researched in order to design successfully. Although history is important, it shouldn’t get in the way of an architects ambitions. Considering some aspects is useful but every designer is different which means that if something didn’t work in the past there is no reason it cannot work in the future.
Week 19: Centurions, BoB National, Frank Lloyd Wright
Known
as an early modernist, Wright did not look at the past and what people did. He
followed his own path and created a style which was personal to him. Although
he had many unpleasant experiences in life, this has not stopped him from
designing and producing new buildings, furniture etc. He studied engineering
and developed his architectural knowledge from this.
Today he has many buildings around the world which are all unique in themselves. They all have a different meaning, reason and atmosphere. He says ‘his architecture blends with the nature’. Meaning, it fits into its context rather than looking surreal and not part of that particular space. His powerful architectural style focuses on the landscape, meanings, senses and views, which he takes his inspiration from. Frank Lloyd Wright’s aim is to connect people to nature by using spiritual values. He doesn’t design buildings which look like nature; he makes them feel like it. |
Falling
Water which one of the most known buildings of Wright is an example of his
principles. The exterior of the building doesn’t look natural but the materials
which have been selected makes the visitors feel connected to nature. The rock
which the building is constructed around accommodates the living room. This has
been done because it is the most occupied space within the building.
From this reading I have found out that the architect can have total control over the building. Their designs can control how and what people feel when they are in a space. This is what Frank Lloyd Wright does. He makes people feel as if they’re connected to nature in every part of the building. Materials are the key to achieve this. The texture, shapes, and colours play a huge role. |
Week 24: Abstract Neo-Plasticity and Its Architectural Manifestation in the Luis Barragan House/Studio of 1947, Jin-Ho Park, Hong-Kyu Lee, Young-Ho Cho & Kyung-Sun Lee, 2009
http://www.casaluisbarragan.org/
http://www.ronenbekerman.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/110520_casa_barragan_salon_total.jpg
http://archi-learner.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/luis-barragan-house-and-studio-1947.html
http://www.ronenbekerman.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/110520_casa_barragan_salon_total.jpg
http://archi-learner.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/luis-barragan-house-and-studio-1947.html
Luis Barragan’s style is closely linked to his culture and context. His
designs include a lot of Mexican elements which relate to art, culture,
religion, surroundings, etc. The use of colours make up the compositions we see
today. The simplicity in his architectural approach creates minimal and modern
spaces.
The main focus of the house and studio was colour, light and form. He has selected to use high walls which was a symbol of separating himself from the outside world. This space was a personal space and had a lot of meaning and reasons for the way it has been designed. The dark and dull entrance leads to a bright coloured interior. The moveable walls makes the spaces flexible and gives total control to the user. |
The flat linear planes used in The Luis Barragan House looks similar to the The Schroder House. In both the buildings light, form and colour play a huge role. Although they are from different periods; Schroder House- De Stijl and Barragan House modern, there are certain elements which connect them.
The use of bright colours draws the visitors attention and this has been done to pick out certain areas or furniture's which make up the building. Having moveable walls has added extra control over the use of the space.
The use of bright colours draws the visitors attention and this has been done to pick out certain areas or furniture's which make up the building. Having moveable walls has added extra control over the use of the space.
http://www.arredativo.it/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/RIETVELD_-CasaSchroeder_interni02.jpg
http://www.tinadhillon.com/the-schroder-house-utrecht-the-netherlands/
http://www.tinadhillon.com/the-schroder-house-utrecht-the-netherlands/
Week 25: Modernity, space and national representation at the Tokyo Olympics 1964- Article
The
1964 Olympics in Tokyo was the main steps for it to become a modern city. It
was a way to show their identity to the world. The war had a huge impact on
Japan and led to social, political and economical problems. They had to do
something which would change peoples perspectives about the country.
The Olympic marathon went around new architecture which was a message showing that they have changed and are moving forward. Although this was an unexpected move for Japan it was also noticeable that they did not forget about their past. The history was thought about during the design process of the buildings for the games. Urban planners had to design in order to create a new and successful identity which would be exposed to the whole world. The games were held in a historical context. The Games were the start of a whole new chapter. It was a symbol to find the right path to the future while having the history in mind. The Olympics also effected the wider city. There were many modern structure built by the time the games had started. |
Week 26: Pruitt-Igoe
Pruitt-Igoe was a 33 11 storey
high project which is known to be the failure of modernism. Architects and
urban designers have worked together to complete this project. The details of
how the site will work as a whole as well as the individual aspects haven’t
been thought in detail. 33 out of the total 74 acre site hasn’t been touched.
This shows that the surrounding of the towers do not create a living neighbourhood.
By doing this they have made people feel unconnected and unsocial. There was
also a lack of maintenance. The overgrown vegetation did not look aesthetically
pleasing.
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Today there are many different
types of buildings on the site. This include; a school, library, churches, a gym,
health centre and an electric substation. These buildings provide services to
the surrounding low-rise family neighbourhoods, as the neighbourhood within it
failed.
There are many examples of bad architecture and urban planning still present today. Lenton Tower block in Nottingham have also been demolished due to the unsuccessful design which didn’t meet today’s needs. The residents which have created that neighbourhood are being sent to places further away, which they’re not in favour of. This is being done to start a whole new neighbourhood which would suit the new development. |
Week 27: Radical Post-Modernism and Content: Charles Jencks and Rem Koolhaas Debate the Issue- Article
The
debate between Charles Jencks and Rem Koolhaas discusses their ideas about Post
Modernism since the 1960’s. They also focus on iconic architecture and talk
about how they feel about it from their own perspective. Reading about two
architects who are well known in their styles of architecture has been very
interesting. They have common interests and understand each other’s work, but
different results.
The answers they gave to most questions were opposites. There were a few which they both agreed on, one being the question about iconic architecture. They stated that nowadays architects are required to produce iconic buildings. One of the examples of this is Zaha Hadid. Hadid is not interested in the context and people around it. Her main aim is to produce buildings which catch attention and seem unreal. This is one of the reasons why they become iconic and receive many criticisms.
I believe not all architects try to produce buildings which become iconic, but some really think about the users and its context. Though most iconic architects produce iconic buildings; it’s a way of creating a three dimensional signature. Some might agree and say that iconic architecture needs to think about the surrounding area which was there before the design was done. Some might disagree and say, it’s a way of controlling and changing the way people lived and worked around the building. It gives control to architects who are educated to create different spaces for people to carry on their life with.
The answers they gave to most questions were opposites. There were a few which they both agreed on, one being the question about iconic architecture. They stated that nowadays architects are required to produce iconic buildings. One of the examples of this is Zaha Hadid. Hadid is not interested in the context and people around it. Her main aim is to produce buildings which catch attention and seem unreal. This is one of the reasons why they become iconic and receive many criticisms.
I believe not all architects try to produce buildings which become iconic, but some really think about the users and its context. Though most iconic architects produce iconic buildings; it’s a way of creating a three dimensional signature. Some might agree and say that iconic architecture needs to think about the surrounding area which was there before the design was done. Some might disagree and say, it’s a way of controlling and changing the way people lived and worked around the building. It gives control to architects who are educated to create different spaces for people to carry on their life with.
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com.ezproxy.ntu.ac.uk/doi/10.1002/ad.1293/pdf
Week 28: Architecture and Transgression: An Interview with Bernard Tschumi- Article
Architect Bernard Tschumi has written an essay to
motivate other architects to be more ambitious and have more control over what
they design. Although rules and regulations are an important aspect to
construction; the creativity, designs and experiments should be taking over
because they are what makes every building different. The law shouldn’t restrict
what we can build as long as there are valuable reasons.
He says that the problem today is created by technology. We must go and see buildings to experience the atmosphere and use all senses. Phenomenology is decreasing as we have more advanced software. This is taking away the importance of visiting a piece of architecture because photos and videos are easily accessible. Architecture is seen to be something erotic. It excites one both emotionally and physically. Having rich architectural elements increases the excitement. It persuades one to have a want to know and see more. Today Zaha Hadid is the well-known architect who does things her way. Designing in architecture is mainly done to fit into context and work with its surroundings. Hadid doesn’t follow this rule which supports Tschumi’s point. The architectural |
elements and constructions techniques she uses are always different to traditional methods which creates her attractive unique and abstract pieces. She is also against rules and set regulations. She believes that an architect should have the control of what exactly will be built. Designing is a personal thing which is different to everyone therefore nothing should set back our mind and creativeness.
Week 29: The Brits who Built the Modern World | BoB National
In 1980s the bad design and construction methods led to a
failure in modern architecture. Although people wanted to go back to old style
housing, a group of ambitious architects disagreed and started to build high-tech
multi-storey buildings. This is what led to the modern movement.
The Lloyds of London building was done by Richard Rogers to become a symbol of status. The stainless steel building has an open plan core which makes the users feel connected visually, emotionally and physically. The clients need was to have all the services outside so that they are not disturbed while working. This created an inside out design which does not fit into context. The Lloyds building has received many bad comments by the public and the users. It was not accepted because no one was used to this style of architecture.
The un-success of modernism started post-modernism. Architects combined historical elements with high-tech materials. This had attracted people; as it looked more familiar to them. Structure was a big element in this movement. Designs were made to show how the building came together. Having exposed parts brought a whole new style to the world of architecture. Richard Rodgers, Norman Foster and Michael Hopkins were the most known architects of the time.
Although high-tech architecture was not a favour to the public in the early stages, it is know a style which is much appreciated and liked. This creates a problem to why post-modernism was introduced. People now question whether there was really a need for it.
The Lloyds of London building was done by Richard Rogers to become a symbol of status. The stainless steel building has an open plan core which makes the users feel connected visually, emotionally and physically. The clients need was to have all the services outside so that they are not disturbed while working. This created an inside out design which does not fit into context. The Lloyds building has received many bad comments by the public and the users. It was not accepted because no one was used to this style of architecture.
The un-success of modernism started post-modernism. Architects combined historical elements with high-tech materials. This had attracted people; as it looked more familiar to them. Structure was a big element in this movement. Designs were made to show how the building came together. Having exposed parts brought a whole new style to the world of architecture. Richard Rodgers, Norman Foster and Michael Hopkins were the most known architects of the time.
Although high-tech architecture was not a favour to the public in the early stages, it is know a style which is much appreciated and liked. This creates a problem to why post-modernism was introduced. People now question whether there was really a need for it.
An example of old and new architecture can be seen in The Novotel Hotel in Bucharest. The original building was destroyed during WW1 and today the front façade remains. This rich piece of architecture has been adapted in the hotels design and is the entrance to the multi-storey building.
The Paucescu House in Bucharest mixes stone and glass to provide the Headquarters of National Union Architects. The new proposal does not fit into context and hasn't been accepted by the public. Many criticism have been made to the design; as there has been a large bold box on top of a 19th century French Renaissance building. The detail in the facades of the existing building has not been connected to the steel and glass extension.
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Week 30: The diversity of timber in Alvar Aalto's architecture: forests, shelter and safety- Article
Alvar
Aalto is greatly influenced by the past. He studies how materials were used in historical
designs. He mainly uses timber in his work and sees it ‘‘as a timeless material
with ancient traditions’’. He doesn’t only study the properties of timber but
the influences it has on our health and well-being. He uses it as a bridge
between the building and the psychology of the visitor. He understands the way
it makes us feel according to the way he has proposed it.
He is particular with his choice of timber according to what he designs and how he wants people to feel in that space. I believe timber is one of the best materials to use in a building. It gives the space depth as well as telling a story itself. The grains and the type also adds detail and depth.
Going on a group trip to Hill Holt Wood has supported this reading. We learned about the key properties of timber and the reasons why they are used for certain things. Having a one-to-one experience of wood has really increased my interest in this field. I will be considering timber more often in my designs, which would allow me to have a total control over he spaces and buildings I design.
He is particular with his choice of timber according to what he designs and how he wants people to feel in that space. I believe timber is one of the best materials to use in a building. It gives the space depth as well as telling a story itself. The grains and the type also adds detail and depth.
Going on a group trip to Hill Holt Wood has supported this reading. We learned about the key properties of timber and the reasons why they are used for certain things. Having a one-to-one experience of wood has really increased my interest in this field. I will be considering timber more often in my designs, which would allow me to have a total control over he spaces and buildings I design.
Week 31: Félix Candela. From thin concrete shells to the 21st century’s lightweight structures
Felix
Candela is interested in both the properties and artistic side of engineering. He
was fascinated with the use of concrete. There are examples of his designs
where he has used sheets of concrete to create unique curved shapes which were
believed to only be achievable with fabric. The shapes which he has used in his
building requires tensile structure, but with his detailed knowledge about
engineering, he has achieved similar properties with concrete.
Candela is one of the few architects who is successful in combing art and science. It is generally separated for most architects and designers. Science seems too detailed whereas art sometimes seems unrealistic; therefore it is very difficult to find a balance between the two.
One of the materials which tutors tell us to not consider is concrete. They do not want us to use it because for students in architecture school, it is an easy and basic material to use. I believe that if students including myself use it in a detailed way just like Candela, then there could be beautiful buildings produced. An example of this is The Nottingham Contemporary. The architect has used curved concrete panels which have lace imprints on them to connect the building into its context. In future projects I will be testing concrete in different ways to see if it can be used in a careful and well thought way which would be suitable for my design.
Candela is one of the few architects who is successful in combing art and science. It is generally separated for most architects and designers. Science seems too detailed whereas art sometimes seems unrealistic; therefore it is very difficult to find a balance between the two.
One of the materials which tutors tell us to not consider is concrete. They do not want us to use it because for students in architecture school, it is an easy and basic material to use. I believe that if students including myself use it in a detailed way just like Candela, then there could be beautiful buildings produced. An example of this is The Nottingham Contemporary. The architect has used curved concrete panels which have lace imprints on them to connect the building into its context. In future projects I will be testing concrete in different ways to see if it can be used in a careful and well thought way which would be suitable for my design.
Week 32: On concrete materiality in architecture- Article
In this reading it has been stated that materials should be treated according to their properties. People shouldn’t try to change the properties of a particular material just because they want to use it and have no other reason. Materials which have the original properties which are required should be used. What I understand from this reading is that designs shouldn’t control materials, materials should control designs. Architects need to understand that materials can do certain things and it shouldn’t be changed. There are certain things and ways which you could building something in concrete and something in timber. You cannot building everything with any material.
As I have gained more knowledge about materials throughout the two years of my degree, I have been very careful with the choice of materials. I haven’t used a material because it looks aesthetically pleasing, I have researched and selected particular materials because the properties work well with the design I have proposed.
As I have gained more knowledge about materials throughout the two years of my degree, I have been very careful with the choice of materials. I haven’t used a material because it looks aesthetically pleasing, I have researched and selected particular materials because the properties work well with the design I have proposed.
Week 33: Building and exhibition layout: Sainsbury Wing compared with Castelvecchio- Article
What makes up the design of a
museum is the spatial layout of the circulation and the gathering space to
exhibit work. Having a controlled layout of movement guides the visitors around
the work in order. An open and random route allows a uncontrolled sequence of
movement. This does confuse people at times because having a set route makes it
easier to follow while their concentration is set on the artwork.
Every gallery/museum has a different layout arrangement, meaning the curators have to plan exhibitions around the layout of the building. Paintings are used to slow down the circulation and 3d elements control the path in which people move around the building.
Every gallery/museum has a different layout arrangement, meaning the curators have to plan exhibitions around the layout of the building. Paintings are used to slow down the circulation and 3d elements control the path in which people move around the building.
https://www.nationalgalleryimages.co.uk/filming/sainsbury/sainsbury3.jpg
http://velvetescape.com/2011/03/a-treasure-trove-in-the-forest/
http://www.feellikehome.cn/en/culture/%E6%B3%B0%E7%89%B9%E7%BE%8E%E6%9C%AF%E9%A6%86/
http://velvetescape.com/2011/03/a-treasure-trove-in-the-forest/
http://www.feellikehome.cn/en/culture/%E6%B3%B0%E7%89%B9%E7%BE%8E%E6%9C%AF%E9%A6%86/
Week 34: At Ohio State University, Mack Scogin Merrill Elam's new KNOWLTON HALL brings the design process to the larger academic community- Article
This
reading is about the design of Ohio State University. The architects have
really thought in detail about the key parts of the brief. They were required
to design spaces which were inspiration to the students. This was to increase
the quality of work through designing quality spaces which encouraged them to
work. As they had to follow a strict brief; one of the points were to use
marble. It was mentioned that it wouldn’t be suitable for a learning
environment, but had to be used in the end. They converted marble into small
tiles which could be replaced separately when damaged.
This reading has reminded me that in the future I will have to work to set briefs and there will be certain things which the clients want. I will have to use my creative side to try and suit the design with the particular things they want; e.g. sizes, materials, quantities etc.
This reading has reminded me that in the future I will have to work to set briefs and there will be certain things which the clients want. I will have to use my creative side to try and suit the design with the particular things they want; e.g. sizes, materials, quantities etc.
http://web.b.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.ntu.ac.uk/ehost/detail/detail?sid=cd7ca0d7-8c9c-4dc3-9150-98943097f2fa
40sessionmgr198&vid=0&hid=101&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=17080894
40sessionmgr198&vid=0&hid=101&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=17080894
Week 35: La Biennale di Venezia: Architettura
The Venice Biennale hosts many exhibitions throughout the year
and architecture is one of the many fields they have. The organisation curates
work from all around the world which come from architect, urban designers,
interior designers, town planes, etc. They host different type of activities
for all age groups which makes them connected to both the local
community and the visitors. The 14th International Architecture Exhibition was
on until November in Venice.
It is believed to be one of the most inspirational events for architecture. It is one of the many things I would like to do. There are many designs, ideas and inspirational people there. |
Week 35: MIPIM (Le marché international des professionnels de l’immobilier)
MIPIM is a worldwide known property market who brings together all parts of the property industry. This gives a chance to developers to experience the different fields of this market; ranging from retail to logistics, healthcare to residential, etc. The service they provide allow companies to work together and form new projects and connections. The aim of MIPIM is to create greater relations between businesses so that they can become bigger and earn more.