ARCH 1331-A: Week 3 - Architectural Space and Representation

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts of architectural space, classical and modern architectural theories, cultural reproduction, and drawing systems from ARCH 1331-A Lecture 3.

Chora

In Platonic philosophy, the conceptual space that "gives a place for being."

Chorion

In Euclidean geometry, the area enclosed by the perimeter of a specific geometric figure.

Topos

In Aristotelian philosophy, a natural place or cultural understanding of place, transformed into cultural space by the inscription of geometric limits.

Modern Geometric Space (Galileo)

A conception of the universe as a homogeneous, geometrical void wherein celestial and terrestrial bodies are objectified and governed by identical mathematical laws.

Cartesian Space

An autonomous geometric entity formulated by René Descartes that exists independently of any observer's point of view.

Post-Modern Space/Place

A concept defining space as irreducible to geometry and seeking reconciliation with the qualities of place; described by Michel de Certeau as "a practiced place."

The Vitruvian Triad

The foundational classical principles of architecture identified by Vitruvius: firmitas (strength), utilitas (utility), and venustas (beauty).

Firmitas

The Vitruvian principle denoting structural stability, firmness, and physical strength.

Utilitas

The Vitruvian principle referring to practical utility, functionality, and program.

Venustas

The Vitruvian principle referring to aesthetic beauty, delight, and visual harmony.

Techne

The ancient Greek concept encompassing art, skill, craft, and technique.

Architekton

The Greek origin of the word architect, combining "archi-" with tekton (builder) to mean "chief builder."

Architectus

The Latin term for architect, historically carrying the translation and connotation of "inventor."

"Form Follows Function"

A 19th-century design maxim attributed to Louis Sullivan that provides a modern interpretation of the Vitruvian Triad by emphasizing the relationship and tension between form and practical use.

Genius Loci

A concept highlighted by architectural theorist Christian Norberg-Schulz meaning the "spirit of the place" or the unique cultural identity of a location.

Social Reproduction (in Architecture)

The continuous process through which architectural environments shape experience and reproduce social systems, constructs, cultural forms, values, and norms.

Multiview Drawings

An architectural drawing system comprising a series of orthographic projections (such as plans, sections, and elevations) required to fully and accurately describe a three-dimensional subject.

Orthographic Projection

A drawing method that represents a three-dimensional form by projecting parallel lines perpendicular to the picture plane, depicting major faces in their true size, shape, and proportions.

Paraline Drawings

A drawing system that communicates the three-dimensional nature of an object or construction in a single pictorial view using parallel projectors.

Axonometric Projection

An orthographic paraline projection where a three-dimensional subject is inclined to the picture plane such that its three principal axes ($x$, $y$, and $z$) are foreshortened.

Isometric Projection

The most widely used axonometric projection in architecture, where all three principal axes receive equal visual emphasis and axial lines parallel to these axes are drawn to true length at the same scale.

Perspective Projection

A drawing system that depicts a three-dimensional subject as viewed through a single station point ($\text{SP}$), characterized by the convergence of parallel lines and diminishing size with distance.

Station Point ($\text{SP}$)

The assumed point of observation or eye location in perspective projection from which sightlines radiate toward the subject.

Design Drawings

Drawings that convey the experiential and spatial qualities of compositions—focusing on solid-void relationships, scale, and proportional qualities primarily through graphic conventions.

Construction Drawings

Contractual and legal drawings intended to guide builders and fabricators in executing a design, relying on abstract conventions, precise dimensions, notes, and specifications.