Theory of Architecture - Study Guide

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering the fundamental principles, elements, and definitions found in the Theory of Architecture lecture notes, including man's needs, spatial systems, and circulation types.

Needs of Man

The three categories identified by Arch. Augusto VIllalon: Physical Needs, Emotional Needs, and Intellectual Needs.

Influence of Nature

Factors affecting architecture categorized as Geographical, Topographical, and Climate.

Influence of Man

Conditions categorized as Social Conditions, Economic Conditions, and Technological Conditions.

Activities of Man

Drives including the Desire for Preservation, Recognition, Response, Self-expression, and Self-actualization.

Principles of Art (Principles of Composition)

The fundamentals of design: Movement, Unity, Variety, Balance, Emphasis, Contrast, Proportion, and Pattern/Rhythm.

Elements of Art

The building blocks of visual design: Space, Value, Shape, Form, Texture, and Color.

Yellow

A color associated with gayety, stimulating and cheering to the lazy, but upsetting to the nervous.

Purple

A color that is sedative and soothing, suggesting a melancholy atmosphere, cowardliness, and cheapness.

Secondary Principles of Plan Composition

Principles including Repetition, Transition, Alternation, and Transformation.

Space (Encyclopedia Britannica)

The extent within which matter is physically extended and objects and events have positions relative to one another.

Expressive Space

Artistic space created by man to express the structure of his world, requiring a concept that systematizes its aesthetic property.

Space Planning

A process aiming to concretize "man's existential space" as a rejoinder to spatial needs and oriented actions.

Architectural Space

Defined as a concretization of man's existential space that depicts "humanity" and suggests "cultural" identity.

Three Principles of Space Organization

1. Use of space (utility and function), 2. Collaboration of materials (strength), and 3. Contributions of aesthetics (beauty).

Scalar Sequence Progressions

Types of movement through spaces: Simple Progression, Preparation-Surprise, and Constriction-Relief.

Kinesthetic

The sensation of movement or strain in muscles, tendons, or joints.

Circulation Path

The perceptual thread that links the spaces of a building, or any series of interior spaces, together.

Frontal Approach

A type of building approach that may lead directly to a building or be the entire front facade.

Oblique Approach

An approach that enhances the effect of perspective and is used to delay the sequence of approach.

Spiral Approach

An approach that prolongs the sequence of approach and emphasizes the three dimensions of the building.

Flush Entrance

An entrance type that maintains the continuity of the wall surface.

Projected Entrance

An entrance type designed to provide shelter to the approach.

Recessed Entrance

An entrance that provides shelter while receiving a portion of exterior space into the realm of the building.

Configuration of Path

Organizational patterns for circulation: Linear, Composite, Spiral, Network, and Grid.

Purveyors Path

Circulation routes used for service, including Fire Exits, Service Entrances, and Service Corridors.

Semantics

The study of meanings; in architecture, it refers to architectural meanings or symbolisms.

Indexical Sign (Index)

A sign where there is an existential relation between the signifier and the signified.

Symbolic Sign

A sign where there is a conventional relation between the signifier and the signified.