Study Notes for Architecture Class

Class Introduction

The instructor begins by requesting that each student write down one simple thing they wish to learn during the semester while ensuring that no computers or phones are used during class time. The session will last fifty minutes, three times a week, emphasizing the importance of focus and attention.

Goals of the Class

  • Focus on Learning: The instructor emphasizes the need for students to pay attention for the full duration of class to gain valuable insights.

  • Personal Aspirations: Students are prompted to reflect on their motivations for pursuing architecture, citing a video the instructor has shared explaining the instructor's own journey as an architect and engineer.

Personal Reflection Exercise

  • Students are asked to write down their perspectives on what architecture means to them. The instructor encourages them to explore their ideas as influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright’s sentiment that one ‘lives’ through their work.

Understanding Architecture

Core Question

  • What is architecture?

  • Architecture is not merely about buildings but the essence and experience of creating them.

  • The instructor wishes to share personal experiences and lessons learned throughout their career to guide students through their own potential challenges in this field.

Course Structure

  • Course Title: Architectural Architecture (Design Fundamentals).

  • Course Objective: To systematically describe the phases and problems of the design process in architecture, emphasizing the methodology behind the creation of architectural projects.

Importance of Methodology

  • Meta Design Concept: Students are encouraged to Google "meta design," which refers to a methodology or a series of operations involved in creating architecture.

  • The instructor provides an analogy of opening a door, breaking it down into a series of operations, highlighting the significance of process in architectural design.

Learning Outcomes

Overview

  1. Integrated Design: Understanding the term and its importance in creating cohesive architecture.

  2. Development of Architectural Language: Learning specific terminology and concepts related to architecture, aiding in communication and understanding.

  3. Systems of Analysis: Gaining skills to analyze the phases of design and apply those skills effectively in practical situations.

  4. Architectural Space: A deep dive into the nature of architectural space and how it is designed.

  5. Technical Dimensions of Design: Understanding the structural aspects of design, which is essential in bringing a concept to life.

  6. Geometry of Architecture: Learning how geometry plays a crucial role in architectural design and the implications it has.

  7. Materials, Surfaces, and Colors: Exploring how choices of materials impact design, often considered at various stages of the design process.

  8. Design Quality and Control: Learning about maintaining and assessing the quality of architectural designs throughout the process.

Design Approach

  • Architecture as a System of Integration: The instructor describes architects as integrators of parts and highlights the importance of understanding how various elements fit together.

  • The Vitruvian Triad: The diagram illustrating architecture's three realms:

    • Firmitas (Durability): The structural integrity of a building, ensuring it stands strong.

    • Utilitas (Utility): The functional aspects of design and how a structure serves its purpose.

    • Venustas (Beauty): The aesthetic considerations that make architecture visually appealing.

The Significance of Integrated Design

  1. Every building is constructed with individual components; understanding each part is essential for the overall success of a design.

  2. The complexity of designing architecture resides in balancing these three elements effectively during the design process.

  3. Historical context is provided regarding how architectural principles have evolved alongside societal needs and advancements in technology and situational contexts.

The Role of Architects

  • Architects play a critical role in society, constructing buildings not only for shelter but as reflections of culture and identity. Through their work, they engage with societal needs, providing vital structures for community engagement and interaction.

  • There's emphasis on the continual evolution of architecture as a discipline, calling on students to consider what architecture means to them personally and professionally.

Professional Insights

  • The instructor shares personal feelings regarding the challenges of starting a project while underscoring the importance of persistence.

  • An invitation to schedule meetings with the instructor for additional guidance and mentorship reflects the instructor's commitment to furthering each student's individual architectural journey.

Conclusion of the Lesson

  • Attendance Policy: Reminders about the importance of attendance and punctuality due to the condensed nature of each class session.

  • Assignments: Students are informed about upcoming assignments that are to be submitted via Canvas, emphasizing the continuous need for reflection and critical discourse in architectural thought.

  • First Assignment Introduction: As the class concludes, the instructor provides hints about the first assignment, encouraging students to start thinking critically about integrated design as a concept.