Theory of Architecture

Introduction

The DESIGN THEORY of architecture

A

THEORY is a systematic statement of principles, a formulation of apparent relationships or underlying principles of certain observed phenomena. The theory of any creative field explains the principles on which the expression of that context is based. Add eg thery/principle

principle is a fundamental underlying truth; neither old nor new but timeless. Theory is the result of inference from experience- the basis for future practice.

How theory evolves

In

experimenting with mud, stone and brick men have discovered certain effects to please the eye and satisfy the mind.

The

principles on which the theory of architecture is based i.e. the factors of good architecture were recognized by certain men who marshaled these factors together to form a theory. Thus theory evolves from practice

 These

discoveries enabled them to formulate or set forward systematically a grammar or a Theory of Architecture this theory provides the link between the knowledge of and the practice of design.

 History

& Theory: The History of architecture is the sequence of its facts and developments, the chronicle of events; appreciation of the theory or the grammar shows us how beauty is realized in the form of building. Like all visual arts, architecture obeys certain rules of configuration.

The Parthenon, built in the 5th century BC as a Temple to the goddess Athena has been praised as being an example of the finest achievement in Greek classical architecture with perfect proportions.

A drawing of the Parthenon with Golden Proportions overlaid. - explain g pro

The Architects of the Parthenon used the Golden Proportion in a number of areas in its design. For example, on the gable side of the building, the width and height of the building combine to create a golden rectangle. The total height of the building is approximately 1.618 times the height to the top of the columns, and the frieze sculptures /called triglyphs [columns] and metopes [sculptures]/ on the entablature mimic those proportions as well. The Golden Proportion is used to achieve balance and harmony; it is prevalent in art, architecture, music, nature and some say even in the stock market.

Architecture is_ _ _

Architecture is Conceive Design Realize - Build Why build? Assuming existing environment is not satisfactory Create new environment Thus architecture is a problem solving exercise

Conditions of architecture

The first condition- structural stability The second condition- protection from weather conditions The third condition- moderation of internal climate The fourth condition- economy in the use of scarce materials The fifth condition- durability and low cost of maintenance The sixth condition- privacy, security, freedom from hazards- responsibility in design All matters of common sense, intrinsic to good architecture. But is it all?

What is DESIGN? Design, like art, is everywhere

FUNDAMENTALS OF DESIGN
All good Design produces effects of

Balance Symmetry Proportion Scale Rhythm Movement Emphasis Contrast Pattern Unity Harmony

Principles of design (Architectural Composition)

Like all visual arts, Architecture obeys certain rules of configuration. Indeed Architecture may be called the art of orderly building. The rules of composition apply both to plan & elevations.

 The

Principles of Composition & Design are the rules of grammar of the Visual Language

The Principles

organize the Visual Elements

into a pleasing and comprehensible WHOLE.

This organization is called Composition

Our first response to a composition

is to perceive it as a
WHOLE. This response is SUBJECTIVE.

 Composition

reflects intention

Design Intentions or Concepts -

Concept of tranquility

Karunashraya, an abode of compassion for terminally ill cancer patients by Architect Sanjay Mohe The hospice is focused around a large expanse of water that generates a sense of peace and calm.. each patient has an individual space that leads out to a verandah overlooking the water.

PRINCIPLES OF COMPOSITION
The

principles of design are applicable to all design disciplines including architecture, fashion, art, graphics, industrial poetry, writing, web and finally if I may argue life. Remember to design is to plan or to fashion artistically or skillfully... i.e. to plan the form and structure ...

 The

principles of design are tools used to format the elements of design. The Basic Design Principles are: Balance, Emphasis / Focal Point, Illusion of Motion, Texture, Value, Scale / Proportion, Rhythm, Unity, Line, Shape / Volume, Illusion of Space and Color. These Principles are incorporated into the visual language of design.