1.1 PRES Reading Architecture and Design COMPRESSED

Reading Architecture and Design - Overview

• Course by Dr. Beth A. Wield

• Focus: Understanding the city through architecture

Course Content

• Restricted usage of materials; personal use only for enrolled students.

• Strong emphasis on copyright regulations.

Key Points of URBS 110

• Major Themes:

  • Architecture as storytelling: Every building has a narrative.

  • Timeliness: Adherence to deadlines is crucial for smooth course management.

• Curriculum covers 6,000+ years of architecture with selected highlights.

Important Exam Strategies

• Focus on key terminology related to buildings and architectural elements.

• Understand the societal context: Architecture reflects its society's values.

• Key ideas introduced in each session serve as a guide for quizzes and exams.

Study Guide Overview

• Each presentation includes a list of Key Ideas for focus during studies.

• Bold red font indicates crucial terms and concepts to remember.

Principles for Studying

• Avoid the "information pitfall" by focusing on significant concepts rather than minor details.

• Tests will emphasize understanding over rote memorization of dates or specific buildings.

Philosophical Concepts in Architecture

• Architecture as a physical representation of societal values across cultures.

• Recognizing the incremental nature of architectural design; new ideas often stem from historical influences.

Historic Context in Architecture

• Understanding how history influences building design and societal status.

• The aesthetic and structure of buildings can indicate wealth and social standing.

The Four Points of Architecture and Design

1. Artistic Merit: Unique elements that differentiate buildings.

2. Historic Context: The story and societal factors surrounding a building's design.

3. Art History: The evolution and timeline of architectural styles.

4. Engineering: The construction techniques that facilitate design integrity.

Architectural Terms

• Scale: Important in architecture; measured through:

  • Mechanical Scale: Recognizable units of measurement.

  • Human Scale: Comfortable dimensions relating to human proportions.

  • Imperial Scale: Monumental, making humans feel small in comparison.

• Façade: The front or most decorated side of a building.

• Elevation: Refers to any side of a building's view.

• Symmetry vs. Asymmetry: Balance in design elements; symmetry refers to equal parts while asymmetry lacks this balance.