Day 2: Classical, Gothic, Modernist, Minimalist, and Sustainable Arch.

Vitruvian Triad

Ancient Roman design philosophy: Firmitas (strength), Utilitas (function), Venustas (beauty)

Proportion

Mathematical relationship between parts of a structure, especially used in Classical architecture

Symmetry

Balanced and mirrored design layout, central to Classical order and aesthetics

Column Order

Classical system of architecture: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian — governs column design and proportion

Entablature

Horizontal element above columns, includes architrave, frieze, and cornice

Pediment

Triangular gable found above porticos in Classical buildings

Pointed Arch

Key Gothic element that allows for taller, more flexible structures

Flying Buttress

External support in Gothic architecture that channels lateral forces from walls

Ribbed Vault

Gothic ceiling structure using intersecting ribs to support vaults more efficiently

Tracery

Ornamental stonework holding stained glass in Gothic windows

Lux Nova

“New light”; concept referring to the divine light filtered through Gothic stained glass

Verticality

Emphasis on height and upward motion in Gothic architecture to symbolize heaven

Functionalism

Modernist belief that form should be driven solely by function

Form Follows Function

Modernist motto (Sullivan): architectural form should reflect its purpose

Machine Aesthetic

Modernist concept of buildings as efficient, industrial, mass-produced objects

Open Plan

Modernist layout with minimal internal walls to allow flexible space use

Pilotis

Thin supports lifting a Modernist building off the ground (Le Corbusier’s Five Points)

Curtain Wall

Non-structural outer façade often made of glass; common in Modernist towers

Brutalism

Offshoot of Modernism using raw concrete and monolithic forms

Ornament is Crime

Adolf Loos’s anti-decoration argument foundational to Modernist ideology

Less is More

Mies van der Rohe’s Minimalist principle: reduce design to its essentials

Wabi-Sabi

Japanese concept: beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity

Negative Space

Empty or unoccupied space that contributes to composition and clarity

Material Honesty

Expressing materials in their natural state without disguise or ornament

Monochrome Palette

Limited use of color (often whites, greys, beiges) for spatial calm

Planar Surfaces

Flat, uninterrupted surfaces often seen in minimalist interiors and façades

Recessed Detailing

Hidden joints, lighting, and hardware to avoid visual clutter

Silence of Form

A minimalist idea: architecture should be quiet and contemplative

Functionality

Design that serves its purpose with efficiency and clarity

Slow Architecture

Minimalist ideal valuing slowness, mindfulness, and permanence in building

Passive Design

Design strategies that reduce energy use without mechanical systems (e.g. natural ventilation, solar heating)

Thermal Mass

Material's ability to absorb and store heat; helps regulate building temperature

Daylighting

Use of natural light to reduce artificial lighting needs and energy use

Net-Zero Energy

A building that produces as much energy as it consumes annually

LEED Certification

U.S. Green Building Council rating for sustainable buildings (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

Green Roof

Vegetated roof surface that provides insulation, reduces runoff, and improves biodiversity

Graywater System

Water recycling system that reuses wastewater from sinks/showers for irrigation or toilets

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

Analysis of environmental impacts from material extraction to building demolition

Cradle to Cradle

Sustainable design principle where materials are infinitely reusable or biodegradable

Biophilic Design

Design approach that connects humans to nature through natural forms, patterns, and materials