Architecture Class Notes
What is Architecture?
● Definition: The art and science of designing and constructing buildings
and other physical structures.
● Key Components:
○ Form: The visual appearance of a building, including its shape,
size, and materials.
○ Function: The purpose of a building and how it is used.
○ Structure: The framework that supports a building.
○ Space: The arrangement of rooms and open areas within a
building.
○ Light: The use of natural and artificial light to illuminate a
building.
○ Material: The substances used to construct a building.
Historical Periods and Styles
● Prehistoric: Early human shelters, such as caves and huts.
● Ancient: Egyptian pyramids, Greek temples, and Roman architecture.
● Medieval: Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals, castles, and fortified
towns.
● Renaissance: Revival of classical architecture, emphasizing symmetry,
proportion, and order.
● Baroque: Dramatic and ornate style, characterized by curves,
ornamentation, and theatricality.
● Rococo: Lighter and more playful version of Baroque, with delicate
details and pastel colors.
● Neoclassical: Revival of classical Greek and Roman architecture,
emphasizing simplicity and rationality.
● Modern: Emphasis on function, simplicity, and industrial materials.
● Postmodern: Reaction against Modernism, characterized by eclecticism,
irony, and a playful use of historical styles.
● Contemporary: Diverse range of styles and approaches, often
incorporating technology and sustainability.
Architectural Principles
● Firmitas: Strength and durability of a building.
● Utilitas: Functionality and usefulness of a building.
● Venustas: Beauty and aesthetic appeal of a building.
● Scale: The relationship between the size of a building and its
surroundings.
● Proportion: The harmonious relationship between the parts of a
building.
● Rhythm: The repetition of elements in a building.
● Balance: The distribution of weight and visual interest in a building.
● Emphasis: The focal point of a building.
Architectural Design Process
1. Programming: Defining the project's goals, scope, and requirements.
2. Schematic Design: Developing initial design concepts and sketches.
3. Design Development: Refining the design and creating detailed
drawings.
4. Construction Documents: Producing construction drawings and
specifications.
5. Construction Administration: Overseeing the construction process.
Additional Notes
● Architectural Drawings: Blueprints, floor plans, elevations, sections, and
details.
● Building Materials: Wood, stone, brick, concrete, steel, and glass.
● Architectural Careers: Architect, landscape architect, urban planner,
interior designer, and structural engineer.
● Famous Architects: Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier, Mies van der
Rohe, and Zaha Hadid.
Please note: This is just a basic overview of architecture. There are many other
aspects to the field, such as architectural theory, history, and criticism.