Architecture Class Notes
Architecture Class Notes
Introduction to Architecture
● Definition: Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and
other physical structures.
● Key Components:
○ Form: The visual appearance of a building, including its shape, size,
and proportion.
○ Function: The purpose of a building and how it serves its users.
○ Structure: The framework that supports a building.
○ Space: The arrangement of rooms and open areas within a building.
○ Site: The location of a building and its relationship to its surroundings.
○ Material: The substances used to construct a building.
○ Light: The illumination of a building, both natural and artificial.
History of Architecture
● Ancient Architecture:
○ Egyptian Pyramids
○ Greek Temples
○ Roman Colosseum
● Medieval Architecture:
○ Romanesque Cathedrals
○ Gothic Cathedrals
● Renaissance Architecture:
○ Italian Renaissance
● Baroque Architecture:
○ Elaborate ornamentation and dramatic spaces.
● Modern Architecture:
○ Emphasis on function and simplicity.
○ Use of new materials and technologies.
● Postmodern Architecture:
○ Reaction against Modernism.
○ Playful use of form and decoration.
● Contemporary Architecture:
○ Sustainable design, green buildings, and innovative technologies.
Architectural Principles
● Balance: The distribution of weight and visual interest within a design.
● Rhythm: The repetition of elements to create a sense of movement.
● Emphasis: The focal point of a design.
● Proportion: The relationship between the sizes of different parts of a design.
● Scale: The relationship between the size of a design and its surroundings.
● Harmony: The overall coherence and unity of a design.
Architectural Styles
● Classical: Based on the principles of ancient Greek and Roman architecture.
● Gothic: Characterized by pointed arches, flying buttresses, and stained glass
windows.
● Baroque: Ornate and dramatic style with a focus on movement and emotion.
● Rococo: A more delicate and playful version of Baroque.
● Neoclassical: A revival of Classical styles during the 18th and 19th centuries.
● Art Nouveau: A decorative style characterized by flowing lines and organic
forms.
● Art Deco: A geometric style with a focus on luxury and glamour.
● Modern: A style emphasizing function, simplicity, and clean lines.
● Postmodern: A reaction to Modernism, often characterized by irony,
eclecticism, and historical references.
● Deconstructivism: A style that challenges traditional notions of form and
structure.
Remember to add your own notes and sketches to personalize your learning
experience. Good luck!