Theory of Architecture 1

INTRODUCTION

PROBLEM

SOLUTION

ARCHITECTURE
INTRODUCTION

 ACT OF CREATING ARCHITECTURE – a problem solving

or design process

 “Art is solving problems that cannot be formulated

before they have been solved. The shaping of the
question is part of the answer.” – PIET HEIN , a Danish
poet
INTRODUCTION

Design language is limited

= limited range of
possible solutions
INTRODUCTION

Broadening & enriching a vocabulary of design through

1. the study of essential elements and principles
2. the exploration of a wide array of solutions to
architectural problems developed over the course of
human history
INTRODUCTION

THEORY (in general)

• A body of related facts or principles used to explain a
phenomenon and is the basis for future action
• Analysis of a set of facts in relation to one another
• Belief, policy or procedure proposed or followed as basis of
action
• An ideal or hypothetical set of facts, principles or
circumstances of a body of fact on science or art
• A plausible or scientifically accepted general principle or
body of principles offered to explain phenomenon
INTRODUCTION

THEORY (in general)

Forms/ Types of Theory:
1. Descriptive - explains phenomenon or events; they re
neutral and do not lean towards any ideology
2. Prescriptive - prescribes bases or guidelines (ex: building
laws)
3. Critical - challenges relationships between architecture &
society
INTRODUCTION

ARCHITECT
from the Greek words:
 ARCHI = foremost, original or master
 TEKTON = worker, builder
INTRODUCTION

ARCHITECTURE  Marcus Vitruvius Pollio

(Roman Architect in 1st
century AD) said that
architecture was a
building that incorporated:
1. UTILITAS – utility,
function, use
2. FIRMITAS – structure,
construction, technology
3. VENUSTAS – beauty,
attractive, aesthetic
Utilitas

ENGINEERING

Firmitas
Venustas

ART
(sculpture or
paintings)

Firmitas
Venustas

Firmitas ARCHITECTURE

Utilitas
WHY?
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
The Architecture Space • Organizational pattern, relationships, hierarchy
• Qualities of shape, color, texture, scale, proportion
of Structure
• Qualities of surfaces, edges and openings
Enclosure
Experienced Movement in • Approach and entry
• Path configuration and access
through Space-Time
• Sequence of spaces
• Light, view, touch, hearing and smell
Achieved by Technology • Structure and enclosure
• Environmental protection and comfort
means of
• Health, safety and welfare
• Durability
Accommodating Program • User requirements, needs, aspirations
• Socio-cultural factors
a
• Economic factors
• Legal restraints
• Historical tradition and precedents
Compatible Context • Site and environment
• Climate: sun, wind, temperature & precipitation
with its
• Geography: soils, topography, vegetation & water
• Sensory and cultural characteristics of the place
INTRODUCTION
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
1. Spatial System:

the 3D integration of
program elements & spaces
accommodates the multiple
functions & relationships of a
house
INTRODUCTION
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
2. Structural System:

a grid of columns supports

horizontal beams & slabs
INTRODUCTION
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
3. Enclosure System:

four exterior wall planes

define a rectangular volume
that contains the program
elements & spaces
INTRODUCTION
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
4. Circulation System:

the stair & the ramp

penetrate & link the 3 levels,
and heighten the viewer’s
perception of forms in space
& light; curved form of the
entrance foyer reflects the
movement of the automobile
INTRODUCTION
ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
5. Context:

a simple exterior form wraps

around a complex interior
organization of forms &
shapes; elevating the main
floor provides a better view &
avoids the humidity of the
ground; a garden terrace
distributes sunlight to the
spaces gathered around it
Villa Savoye by Le Corbusier