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.
○ Context: The relationship of a building to its surroundings.
Principles of Design
● Balance: The distribution of weight and visual interest in a design.
● Proportion: The relationship of the size of one part of a design to the
size of other parts.
● Rhythm: The repetition of elements in a design.
● Emphasis: The use of elements to draw attention to a particular part of a
design.
● Harmony: The pleasing arrangement of elements in a design.
Architectural Styles
● Classical: Based on the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome.
● Gothic: Characterized by pointed arches, flying buttresses, and stained
glass windows.
● Renaissance: Inspired by classical architecture, with a focus on
symmetry and proportion.
● Baroque: Characterized by dramatic curves, ornate details, and a sense
of movement.
● Rococo: A more delicate and playful style than Baroque, with pastel
colors and asymmetrical designs.
● Neoclassical: A revival of classical styles in the 18th and 19th centuries.
● Art Nouveau: A style characterized by flowing lines, organic forms, and
decorative motifs.
● Art Deco: A style characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and
luxurious materials.
● Modern: A style that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by
clean lines, simple forms, and a focus on function.
● Postmodern: A style that emerged in the late 20th century, characterized
by a playful use of historical styles and a rejection of modernist
principles.
Architectural Drawings
● Floor Plans: A top-down view of a building, showing the layout of rooms
and walls.
● Elevations: A side view of a building, showing the height and exterior
features.
● Sections: A vertical slice through a building, showing the interior
construction and materials.
● Details: Enlarged drawings of specific parts of a building, such as
doors, windows, and stairs.
Architectural Careers
● Architect: Designs buildings and other structures.
● Landscape Architect: Designs outdoor spaces, such as parks and
gardens.
● Interior Designer: Designs the interior spaces of buildings.
● Urban Planner: Plans the development of cities and towns.
● Construction Manager: Oversees the construction of buildings.
Additional Notes
● Sustainability: The design and construction of buildings that minimize
their environmental impact.
● Accessibility: The design of buildings to be usable by people with
disabilities.
● Building Codes: Regulations that govern the design and construction of
buildings.
● Building Materials: The substances used to construct buildings, such as
wood, steel, concrete, and brick.
● Building Systems: The various systems that make up a building, such
as the HVAC system, plumbing system, and electrical system.
Please note that this is just a brief overview of architecture. There is much
more to learn about this fascinating field.
