Architecture and the Primary Elements of form

PART 1

Architecture
- came from the word “arkhitekton” chief
- the art or science of building especially habitable structures in keeping with aesthetics and
functional criteria (Cyril M. Harris)
- formation or construction whether the result act of growth or random disposition of the parts
- style of building characterized by certain peculiarities of structure
- structure built in accordance with such principles (Cyril M. Harris)

3 Requirements of Architecture
Utilitas - Utility, use / function
Firmitas - firmness or strength
Venustas - delight, beauty, aesthetics

Primary Elements
Point
- Marks a position in space
- static, centralized
- Prime element in the vocabulary of form
- serves as a mark

Line
- a point extended
- a critical element in the formation of any visual construction
- joins/support/surround/intersect other visual elements
Straight Line – sturdy, masculine, belongs to architecture for a mission to fulfill
Vertical Line – expresses spirit of Gothic; proud, exalted and it is inspiration
- Express a state of equilibrium with the force of gravity
- Symbolizes human condition
Horizontal Line – horizon of the seascape; calm and peaceful; it is repose
- Presents stability, ground plain, horizon, or a body at rest
Diagonal Line – flight of geese; it is vigorous or angry; it is action
Curved Line – subtler than straight; graceful & sensitive; feminine
- Represents architecture which caters to the emotional rather physical
Vertical Elements
- have been used throughout history in commemorating significant events
- establishes particular points in space
- defines a transparent volume of space
- could also express movement across space

© Julia Parilla
 Architecture and the Primary Elements of form
PART 2

Plane
- line extended in a direction other than its intrinsic direction
- has length and width but no depth
- planes in architecture define three-dimensional volumes of mass and space
Overhead Plane – roof plane; shelters the interior spaces of a bldg from climatic elements
- Ceiling that forms the upper enclosing surface of the room
Ceiling Plane - Is almost always purely visual event in a space
Roof Plane – essential sheltering element that protects interior
Wall Plane – vertical orientation; it is active in our normal field of vision
- Vital to shaping and enclosure of architectural space
- isolate a portion of space to create a controlled interior environment
Base Plane – can either be ground plane that serves as the physical foundation
- visual base for building forms; supports all architectural construction
- floor plane; that forms lower enclosing surface of a room where we walk
- elevated to honor a significant thing; stepped allows change in elevation
Volume
- a plane extended in a direction than its intrinsic direction becomes a volume
- has three dimensions, length, width and depth

Form
- is the primary identifying characteristic of a volume
- it is established by the shapes and planes that describe the boundaries of the volume

Building Forms
- B.F that stand as objects in the landscape can be read as occupying volumes in spaces
- B.F that serves as containers can be read as masses that define volumes of space

© Julia Parilla
 Shape and Form Development
PART 1

Mass is Volume; has:

Direction – either vertical or horizontal in direction
Shape – geometric qualities (square, cylindrical, etc.)

Primary Shapes
Circles – series of points arranged equally
Triangle – a plane bounded by three sides and has 3 angles
Square – a plan figure having four equal sides and 4 right angles

Platonic Solids
- the primary shapes can be extended or rotated to generate volumes whose forms are distinct
- circles (spheres, cylinders); triangles (cones, pyramid); squares (cubes)

Surface is Area
Texture – quality of surface treatment
Tone – light & shade caused by openings, projections
Color – either inherent or applied caused by spectrum hues

Form – is the primary identifying characteristic of a volume; below are its visual properties
1. Shape – principal identifying characteristic of form
- results from the specific configuration of a form’s surface and edges
2. Size – the real dimensions of form
- its scale is determined by its size relative to other forms in its context
3. Color – the hue, intensity and total value of form’s surface
- is the attribute that most clearly distinguishes form from its environment
- also affects the visual weight of the form
4. Texture – the surface characteristics of a form
- affects both tactile and light reflective qualities of a form’s surfaces
5. Position – a form’s location relative to its environment or visual field
6. Orientation – a form’s position relative to its ground plane
7. Visual Inertia – degree of concentration and stability of a form
- the V.I of a form depends on its geometry as well as its orientation

© Julia Parilla
 Shape and Form Development
PART 2

Transform
- to change in composition or structure
- to change the outward form or appearance of
- to change in character or condition
Dimensional Transformation – a form can be transformed into one or more of its dimension
and still retain its family identify
Subtractive Transformation – transformed by subtracting a portion of its volume
Additive Transformation – transformed by addition of element to its volume

Organization of Forms
Centralized Forms
– consists of number of secondary forms clustered about dominant, central or parent form
Linear Form
- consists of forms arranged sequentially in a row
Series of forms may be repetitive or they may be dissimilar in nature and organized by separate and distinct element

Radial Forms
- are compositions of linear forms that extend out from a central form in radial manner
- it can grow into a network (linked by their linear forms)
- its organization can be best seen and understood from an aerial view
Clustered Forms
- consists of forms that are grouped together by proximity or sharing a common visual trait
- group its form according to functional requirements of size, shape or proximity
- flexible enough to incorporate forms of various shapes, sizes and orientations
Grid Forms
- are modular forms whose relationships are regulated by 3D Grids
- a grid may be defined as two or more intersecting sets of regularly spaces points
- it is based on the geometry of the square
- essentially neutral non-directional

Articulation
– refers to the manner in which the surface of form come together to define its shape and volume.

© Julia Parilla
 Dimension: Proportion & Scale Anthropometry
Proportion
- largely a matter of relationships
- evident by comparison, eye makes between the size, shape and tone of various objects
- eyes judges them quickly and classifies with no difficulty
Relative Proportion – parts of the object as it is
Absolute Proportion – parts of the object or the whole to the various parts

Circle
- acts as a focal point on the center for radiating lines
- on an elevation, these shape will give emphasis to that particular portion

Squares to Rectangles
Golden Mean – rectangle to the diagonal of a square based upon the short sides
- is the desirable middle between two extremes, one of excess and the
other of deficiency.
Inclusive Rectangle & Exclusive Rectangle

Triangles
- equilateral triangle with equal sides and angles has long been accepted with good proportions

Classical Proportion
- developed by Vignola & Palladio is based upon standardized proportions
- Greeks didn’t design in this manner but Renaissance Architects did
Le Modulor
- is an anthropometric scale of proportions devised by architect Le Corbusier.
- It was developed as a visual bridge between two incompatible scales, the imperial
and the metric system.
- It is based on the height of a man with his arm raised.
Scale
- has reference to proportions which are good for humans
- it is one set of the subtlest of the elements of design, one of the most difficult to obtain
- deals with the relation of architectural motifs such as doors, windows or moldings
Design
- is a matter of adjustment of architectural elements to meet the needs of the human race
Kinds of Scale
Generic – size of a building element relative to other forms in its context
Human – size of building element or space relative to the human body

© Julia Parilla
 Elements of Circulation
Circulation
- movement through space
- conceived as the perceptual thread that links the exterior/interior spaces of a structure

Gateway and Portals

- traditionally been means of orienting us to the path beyond and welcoming entry

Circulation Elements
1. The Building Approach – distant view
Frontal Oblique Spiral
2. The Building Entrance – from outside to inside
3. Configuration of Path (Major and Minor Axis) – sequence of spaces
4. Path-Space Relationships – edges, nodes and termination of paths
5. Form of the Circulation space – corridors, halls, galleries, stairways and rooms

Balance & Gravitational Curve

Balance
- is equality, composition
- it is the foundation upon which arrangement, harmony, and adjustment of weights, tones, values
are developed.
- proper balance satisfies the eye with reference to the relative importance of the various parts

Symmetrical Balance
- easiest and simplest kind of balance
- elements are precisely the same manner on either side of a central axis or line
- each object is exactly like the one occupying the corresponding position on the opposite
- elements are all duplicated
Formal Balance
- approach absolute symmetry but lacks some of the essential
Unsymmetrical Balance (Occult)
- A more subtle and elusive and is more difficult to attain
- attempts to satisfy the eye without any effort to place equal masses
- elements of varying sizes and shapes

*In an informal arrangement, longer and heavier masses should be nearer the center
*lighter, lower and more horizontal elements may constitute the long arm of the steelyard.
*vertical units may be introduced near the center of interest or the fulcrum to create accents

© Julia Parilla
 Architectural Design Process
PART 1
Architectural Design Process
- is organized to ensure that objectives are reached in order of priority
- the highest priorities are addressed, and largest design solutions are arrived at first
- without this approach, the building is just a random collection of unrelated decisions (Coolidge)

The Classic Steps to the Process [ PSD CBC S ]

1. Pre-Design Phase
2. Schematic Design Phase
3. Design Development Phase
4. Construction Documents Phase
5. Bidding & Negotiation Phase
6. Construction Observation s/Contract Administration Phase

Pre-Design Phase
- client identifies a need to accommodate new or expanded activities
- the chosen architect then produces a Design Program
- It begins with a Problem Statement
Design Program – written document; contains must have to satisfy the needs of bldg
Goals – provide the overall context for what the project is trying to accomplish
Objectives – concrete statements describing what the project is trying to achieve
Design Concept
- the thought, idea, model, theory, impression that went into the evolution of the project
Design Objectives
- contains specific aims in how a project shall be designed/planned
- PO is intangible and DO is tangible
Design Consideration
- factor that influence the achievement of a design objective
Design Criteria
- includes design principles to create functional and dynamic structures
Design Requirements
- detailed and specific properties that the building must have
Space List – the functional areas that are to be provided
Sizes & Dimensions – floor area, critical lengths and heights of the spaces
Proximity Relationships – how close the spaces must be to each other
- type of access between the spaces
Fixtures & Fittings – built in features & equipment required to support functions
Special Feature – anything unusual must be provided for the space to function

© Julia Parilla
 Architectural Design Process
PART 2
Site Analysis
following elements are considered in most sites:
Location
- site should be related to major streets/landmarks

Neighborhood Context
- zoning of neighborhood is important
- information of this type can be typically be found at the municipal or city planning office
- these are the architectural patterns, street, lighting, condition and surroundings
Landmarks – are distinctive sites that provide way-finding for people in the area
- which define the character of the neighborhood
Nodes – are key public gathering places that encourage people to linger & socialize

Size & Zoning

- site boundaries can be located by verifying dimensions or thru municipal/city tax assessor
Zoning Classifications Height Restrictions Allowable Site Coverage
Set-backs Parking Requirements Uses
*Parking req: obtained by using zoning classifications from a zoning map which
can be located from the city planning department

Infrastructure, social, and political boundaries

Legal
- information can be obtained from the deed to the property
Deed – is information such as the property description, present ownership, gov.
jurisdiction the site is located in and the city or country

Natural Physical Features

- info derived from topographic features on the site
- drainage problems, natural features of trees, ground cover & texture, soil conditions

Manmade Features

Circulation
- streets, roads, sidewalks

Utilities
- can be found through utility departments & companies in local area

© Julia Parilla
 Architectural Design Process
PART 3
Schematic Phase
- after the program is complete, architect will generate ideas
- search for an essential organizing principle
- idea suggests overall arrangement & form for indiv. & grp of spaces that makes up the building
- involves switching back and fourth between schematic plans & massing models

Series of steps to the Schematic Design Phase:

Bubble Diagram
- illustrating approximate size and relative position of spaces
Fleshing Out the bubble diagram intro 2-D rough Schematic Plan Layouts

Design Development Phase

- architect revises the approved design in response to client’s comments & needs
- schematic design is developed to a greater level of detail
- architect coordinates the work of other design professionals who are responsible for diff aspects
- decisions are made about the materials and methods of construction to be used
- a cost estimate is prepared to ensure that design is within the budget

Contract Documents
- working drawings & specifications are produced
- combination of graphics and written information

Detail Design
- design of many construction details of the bldg.
- for describing the building thoroughly, the architect and consultant must carry a lot of this
- arrangement, size and shape of stairs, ramp, elevators
- fabrication of doors and screen
- selection of interior finishes
- architect could hire an interior designer

© Julia Parilla
 Conceptualizing Technique in Ad
PART 1
Programmatic Concepts
- refers to abstract ideas intended mainly as functional solutions to the client’s performance
problems without regard to the physical response

Design Concepts
- refer to concrete ideas intended as physical solutions to client’s architectural problems.

Priority
- evokes questions regarding the order of importance
- reflects how to accomplish a goal based on ranking values

Hierarchy
- related to a goal about the exercise of authority and is expressed in symbols of authority

Character
- based on goal concerning the image the client wants in terms of values and nature of proj

Density
- a goal for efficient land use
- for high degrees of interaction
- goal to respond to harsh climatic conditions may lead to the appropriate degree of density

Grouping
Service Grouping
People Grouping

Home Base
- related to idea of territoriality – where a person can maintain individuality
Fixed Address – traditional work setting where on person is assigned to a workplace
Free Address – group assigned for a specific period of time
Relationships
- correct interrelation of spaces which promotes efficiency and effectiveness

Communications
- promotes effective exchange of information

Neighbors

© Julia Parilla
 Conceptualizing Technique in Ad
PART 2
Spatial Flow
Separated Flow
- goal for segregation may relate to people such as pedestrian traffic and car traffic

Mixed Flow
- common social spaces, such as town squares, or building lobbies
- promotes chance and planned encounters

Sequential Flow
- progression of people and things must be carefully planned (museum, factory)

Accessibility

Orientation

Flexibility
- covers expansibility, convertibility, and versatility

Tolerance
- may well add space to the program
- particular spaces tailored precisely for a static activity

Safety

Security Controls

Energy Conservation

Environmental Controls

Phasing

Cost Control
- intended as a search for economy ideas that will lead to a realistic preview of costs and a
balanced budget to meet the extent of available funds

© Julia Parilla
 Theory of Architecture Terms
Concepts
- designer’s way of responding to the design situation presented in the program

Architectural Space
- concretization of man’s existential space

Euclidian Space
- 3 dimensional geometry

Circulation
- movement through space

Signs
Indexial Sign – relationship between signifier and signified
Iconic Sign – refer to an object denoted by a characteristic
Symbolic Sign – arbitrary relation between signifier and signified

Architectural isms
PART 1

-isms
- express doctrine/philosophy/theory developed by individual/belieg etc
- chief characteristics of 20th century architecture are its plurality

RENAISSANCE EARLY MODERN MODERNISM BEYOND MODERNISM

Eclecticism Structuralism
Inventionism Neoclassicism Constructivism
Humanism Exoticism Monumentalism Regionalism
Idealism Sublimism Usonianism Metabolism
National Romanticism
Mannerism Structural Purism
Post-Metabolism
Pietism Rationalism Finn De Seiclism Postmodernism
Rationalism
Regional Classicism Materialism Radicalism
Technoism
Absolutism Medievalism Functionalism Neo-Rationalism
Futurism Deconstructivism
Anglican Empiricism Victorianism Skyscraperism
Rococo Monumental Neplasticism Ecoism
Palladianism Urbanism Totalitarianism Metarationalism
Bauhaus
Georgian Urbanism Anti Urbanism Corporatism
International Modernism
Decorative
Utilitarianism
Industrialism Organicism
Imperialism Brutalism
Expressionism

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 Architectural isms
PART 2
Mannerism
- manipulation of styles achieved by juxtaposition of elements for achieving originality or effect

Eclecticism
- incorporates a mixture of the historical styles

Structuralism
- iron construction; initiated by Joseph Paxton’s Crystal Palace

Monumentalism
- based on general notion that the form of an object should last
- there are some forms which have eternal validity

Radicalism
- marked a radical shift in emphasis from the building of the past which met the demands of
modern life

Constructivism
- created by Russian avant-garde
- committed to complete abstraction with devotion to modernity

Expressionism
- architects who prefigured the International & Functionalist Period of the Modern Movement

Futurism
- architecture of calculation, audacity & simplicity
- architecture of concrete, iron, glass, wood, bricks and stone

Neoplasticism
- theory of pure plastic art which had a pronounced influence on Dutch Architects

De Stijl (The Style)

- aims to construct a movement without any illusion or decoration

Bauhaus
- school of art & design; nerve center of artistic experiment during the 1920’s

CIAM & International Modernism

- set up by Le Corbusier & Siegfried Giedion

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 Architectural isms
PART 3

The International Stle

- ready-made style imported from the U.S

Team X
- formed by rebellious group of young Turks
- principles of modern architecture for the same reasons CIAM had attacked the past
Joan Joseph Bakerna – unite personal freedom with total environment

Organicism
- sympathizes with its environment which is shown in early work

Utilitarianism
- sought for economic solution for low value sites as well as alternative cheap forms of
construction
- example would be: low cost housing
- In Britain, it was called PRE FAB

New Brutalism
- Peter & Alison Smithson
- was marked by a fascination with raw expression of materials, forms and functions

Metabolism
- concerns with the problems of cities such as Tokyo
- example: Nakagin Capsule Hotel

Post Metabolism
- implies an attempt to summarize some of the very divergent currents that characterized the
Japanese architectural scene

Post Modernism
- alternative for Modern Movement ideas like revival of pattern book principles of 19th century
- new interest in vernacular forms adapted to modern needs
- much more strict interpretation of the theatrical element in Modern Movement Architecture proper

Isolationism
- it is conceived independently from its immediate or historical context
- it stands on its own

© Julia Parilla
 Architectural isms
PART 4

Contextualism
- provides effective way to transcend the meanings that are embedded in the context of historical
architectural characteristics
- brings sympathetic creations that blend into their surroundings
- example would be: The Pearl Farm by Ar. Manosa

Deconstructivism
- abstraction of Modernism to the extreme and mainly worked on the principle of exaggeration of
familiar motifs
- also known as New Modernism

Technoism
- how architects tried to bridge the gap between fantasy images and real possibilities that new
technology offered

Ecoism
- merges the interests of sustainability, environmental consciousness, green, natural and organic
approaches to evolve a design solution from these requirements & characteristics of the site
- Respect is the keyword in practicing green / ecological architecture

Metarationalism
- when logic of economist James Galgraith’s views that in the affluent society there is no
meaningful distinction between luxury and necessities meets that of complexity science

© Julia Parilla