Theory of Architecture

What is Theory?

System of ideas used to explain, analyze, or predict phenomena.

3 Types of Theory?

Descriptive – explains
Prescriptive – gives rules
Critical – questions society relationships

3 Architectural Orders?

Physical – actual form (space, structure)
Perceptual – how we experience it
Conceptual – meaning/ideas behind it

6 Principles of Design?

Proportion & Scale, Contrast, Balance, Hierarchy, Rhythm

Proportion vs Scale?

Proportion – part to whole
Scale – object to object

7 Proportioning Systems?

Golden Section
Regulating Lines
Classical Orders
Renaissance Theories
Modulor
Ken
Anthropometry

3 Types of Balance?

Symmetrical, Unsymmetrical, Gravitational

How to show hierarchy?

Size, Shape, Placement

2 Types of Symmetry?

Bilateral, Radial

2 Types of Rhythm?

Unaccented, Accented

5 Architectural Systems?

Spatial, Structural, Enclosure, Circulation, Context

6 Design Phases?

Initiation → Preparation → Synthesis → Evaluation → Action → Reevaluation

4 Primary Elements of Design?

Point, Line, Plane, Volume

3 Relational Properties of Form?

Position, Orientation, Visual Inertia

3 Relational Properties of Form?

Position, Orientation, Visual Inertia

4 Visual Properties of Form?

Shape, Size, Texture, Color

4 Parts of Color?

Hue, Value, Temperature, Intensity

3 Color Wheel Types?

Primary, Secondary, Tertiary

Warm vs Cool Colors?

Warm – energetic
Cool – calm

5 Color Harmonies?

Complementary
Analogous
Triadic
Split Complementary
Tetradic

4 Circulation Elements?

Approach, Entrance, Path, Path-Space Relationship

3 Types of Approach?

Frontal, Oblique, Spiral

3 Types of Entrance?

Flush, Projected, Recessed

6 Path Types?

Linear, Radial, Spiral, Grid, Network, Composite

PATH-SPACE RELATIONSHIP Types?

Pass by, Pass through, Terminate

4 Spatial Relationships?

Space within space
Interlocking
Adjacent
Linked by common space

5 Types?

Centralized, Linear, Radial, Clustered, Grid

4 Distance Zones?

Intimate, Personal, Social, Public

4 Types of Privacy?

Solitude, Intimacy, Anonymity, Reserve

5 Needs (Top to Bottom)? (MASLOW)

Self-actualization
Esteem
Love/Belonging
Safety
Physiological

CLIMATE (KÖPPEN)

Q: 5 Climate Types?

A – Tropical
B – Dry
C – Temperate
D – Continental
E – Polar

Goal of Passive Design?

Use natural elements (sun, wind) for comfort

PASSIVE DESIGN
4 Principles?

Avoid heat
Ventilation
Natural light
Cool outdoor spaces

PASSIVE DESIGN ELEMENTS

Q: 7 Main Considerations?

Orientation
Ventilation
Landscaping
Thermal Mass
Insulation
Windows
Lighting

VENTILATION

Q: 2 Types?

Stack ventilation
Passive ventilation

SOLAR SHADING

Q: Examples?

Louvers
Overhangs
Brise-soleil
Blinds

NATURAL LIGHTING

Q: 5 Methods?

Skylights
Atrium
Light shelves
Clerestory
Light tubes

WIND (PH)

Q: 2 Prevailing Winds?

Amihan (NE)
Habagat (SW)

DIMENSIONAL TRANSFORMATION

Q: 2 Types of Transformation?

Subtractive, Additive

CIRCULATION SPACE FORM

Q: Types of Circulation Space?

Enclosed
Open one side
Open both sides

Sociopetal?

Brings people together

Sociofugal?

Separates people

DEFENSIBLE SPACE

Q: 3 Levels?

Visual access
Adjacency
Monitored (CCTV)

TERRITORIALITY

Q: What is Territoriality?

Control/ownership of space

CLIMATE – PHILIPPINES

Q: 2 Seasons?

Rainy, Dry

CLIMATE – PHILIPPINES

4 Climate Types (PH)?

Type I, II, III, IV

SUN PATH

Q: 4 Lines in Sun Path Diagram?

Azimuth
Altitude
Date
Hour

INSULATION

Q: 2 Types?

Bulk
Reflective

WINDOWS

Q: Types used in passive design?

Louvers
Casement
Tinted glass
Reflective coatings

THERMAL MASS

Q: What is Thermal Mass?

Ability to store heat

AIR FLOW PRINCIPLES

Q: 3 Principles?

High → Low pressure
Air has inertia
Path of least resistance

SEA & LAND BREEZE

Q: Sea breeze?

Sea → Land (day)

SEA & LAND BREEZE

Q: Land breeze?

Land → Sea (night)

SPATIAL ILLUSIONS

Q: Examples?

Level changes
Glass/light materials
Color use
Borrowed views