Theme 3 Composition

What is a signifier?

Group of tools/signs used to convey meaning. If we don’t know the signifier (ex: Mandarin), then we don’t understand its meaning (words spoken to us). Buildings also have signifiers

WHat are the two types of meaning

Direct (the idea communicated. in architecture, the essential space), and emotional meaning (emotional content induced by a space)

What are the 3 types of Structure?

Spatial (social body for hosting function), technological (beams, slabs, etc), and figurative (projected visual figure of the building)

How are shape and design related?

Shape should be a natural outcome of design, not a leading driver

Does function make shape? !!!!!

No, because functions are abstract and shapes are concrete. Several shapes can fulfill the same function, so shape can never solely determine function. Ex: residential buildings take a variety of forms but accomplish the same function. However, depending on the function, the influence on the shape can be bigger, like a plane or chair

Freedom of shape of towers

most towers above 100m must take the same general form for wind resistance and structure, so they have less freedom of shape than a single house

Freedom of shape in 3 meanings

1. To express personality of creator (BAD!! Feeling of ego)

2. Expressing spirituality of the building and bringing beauty through shape

3. Adaptation to site, sensitivity towards a place

What is ornament?

Ornament and beauty are necessary for psychological needs of wellness, but are not necessary too fulfilling function. It tells a story

What is good vs bad ornament?

Good = builds shape and understanding and quality of the building

Bad = disturbs the essence of building

Municipal Stadium Braga (Eduardo Souto de Moura): Example of good ornament. The fake thin slab staircase at the end isn’t functional, but maintains the essence of the building. It continues the rhythm of concrete stair slabs

Seagram Building (mies van der Rohe): non-functional/structural ornament of steel beams running down the building (but don’t reach ground), emphasizes vertical and material character of the building

Casa Mila (Gaudi): QUALITY ORNAMENT, plan is organized like a biological cell, stone wavy ornament on exterior communicates essence of mediterranean cliffs. Metal is metaphor for seaweed. IF YOU REMOVE ORNAMENT, THE BUILDING LOSES ITS CHARACTER

Casa Mila (Gaudi): QUALITY ORNAMENT, plan is organized like a biological cell, stone wavy ornament on exterior communicates essence of mediterranean cliffs. Metal is metaphor for seaweed. IF YOU REMOVE ORNAMENT, THE BUILDING LOSES ITS CHARACTER