Tree house...s

To me, a tree house is defined as childish. It’s where kids go to hide from their parents, tell ghost stories and play fortress. Approaching this project, I was skeptical to think that I would be able to design a tree house. So I went deeper. What else can a tree house function as? I broke down the main details and I came out with social and privacy. For it to have the essence of a tree house, it must have the functions that will help make it socially welcoming and private at the same time. The concept I chose to use does not fall too far from the tree house (Pun Intended). I decided to use the acorn. Now, besides the actual structure of the acorn (The curving nut and half shell inspired me), I chose the acorn because of squirrels and chipmunks. The goal of those animals is to get the acorn, and in doing so, they have a shared interest for the acorn. And that is where I derive my function. The main idea behind my tree house is to welcome people to be social with each other, but at the same time, have their own private “shell”. I designed it in a way that each tree will have a minimum of three tree houses. They will be evenly placed around the tree’s trunk, but at different levels. Lets say that one tree will rest on the 18 meter mark, while the next one will be on the 26 meter mark, and the last on the 34 mark. I tried to include a revolving idea (It was a genius idea when I first thought of it) but it clashed with my desired staircase, which will wrap the trees trunk all the way to the 3rd house. Ok, so I just read that our tree house can be anything but a “chill spot.” So I’ve decided that I will still keep my acorn idea (Stay true to the tree) and instead of having the rooms at very different levels, I will make them close, maybe one to two meters above each other. Regarding my spiral staircase, I’ve decided that it will be positioned in a way that if it rains, I may still enter my rooms and walk around the tree without getting wet. Actually, I may still be able to involve the revolving AND rotating room idea.

Manifestizo

Architecture to me, from all the things it could be, is change. It is a form of evolution. The only thing constant in this world is change and change is the epitome of architecture. Process and design nowadays is different of those from ancient history. Actually, even ten years ago, we approached buildings differently. Through the use of technology, designing has become easy for architects. The design of the 90’s is different from what we consider “acceptable” nowadays. That is why I believe Architecture is the constant evolution of the human race.

It is not easy to please people, especially with architecture. We have a trait in us where we must always look for the better means of living. That’s what sets us apart from animals, our instincts and desire for continuity of our race. I believe architecture is vital because it provides shelter. That is also another meaning for architecture that I truly believe. Above all other characteristics, it is a form of shelter. Without architecture in a shelter sense, we wouldn’t be where we are now. Shelter is essential because without it, we would have no place to work, sleep and live.

When it comes to architecture, I only seek approval of two people. Yes, that may sound stubborn and headstrong, but to truly leave your mark in the world today, you must stand by what you believe. The first of the two people is the client. I seek approval from the client because it is for him. My goal is to satisfy all my clients’ needs, but while doing so, I will have implemented my touch and design. The 2nd approval I seek is from me. If a client is telling to me to build out of my design, out of my comfort zone, I’d be quick to decline (Unless it is some big shot client, in which case I would take a long time to consider.). If I go out of my design, then I’d be lying to myself. I wouldn’t be the person I studied to be. All the hours spent on making my name through my designs would be lost. That is why it is principle for me to always stand up for my design. I am my design, and my design is who I am. There is a famous quote that I strongly live by, as should every other architect. It goes “Be yourself and speak your mind because those who care don’t matter and those who matter don’t care” – Dr. Seuss.

Having grown up in a family that appreciates the Earth, one of my main designs is to revolve around the world. I find that Eco-Friendly designs will be not only the next big thing in the future, but it will also send out a message. We only have one world, so we should be able to build on it with out destroying it. Better yet, we should be able to build within it. For my designs, I aim to have a sense or a fusion of the environment into the building.

Another design I find intriguing is minimalism. Not only is less material used, but it shows that beauty can still be obtained through simplicity and space. What catches my attention with minimalism is the use of space. It does not require all those ornaments to make it stand out. I envision that my designs will be clean cut. No ornaments or unnecessary pieces will be seen. Every piece of material will have a reason to be put there. Minimalism is pleasing to the eye, and in a world where we are faced with the problem of resources, I believe that minimalism is not only beautiful, but essential.

I find the use of ornaments disgusting. While observing one of our greatest churches in the Philippines, I saw that it lacked an identity. The San Agustin Church was known for its beauty and sturdiness having survived the test of time and war. However, just like Filipinos, it was lost. A church born from Spanish architects displayed four Chinese dragons by the entrance. Upon further observation, I saw that the columns that covered the façade held nothing. It was there just for design, having no purpose but to make it look more baroque. This is why I don’t need ornaments. Buildings have the capability of being beautiful. Removing those Chinese dragons would have given the church more of an identity than it would “design”.

I know that I will come across plenty of people that will challenge my designs. Honestly, that excites me. Criticism is a chance to build and improve my talents. If I wanted to hear about all the good of my designs, I would go to my family members and confide in them. I see those critics as stepping-stones to greater things. As I witnessed during my Thedes2 class, Sir AJ continually challenged and poked at the design philosophies and manifesto of my colleagues. It was not done in spite, but more so on improving and defending their philosophy and manifesto. It was a preparation of what our lives, as an architect will look like in the future. Debates, rebuttals, and clashing ideas are all apart of life.

I do have two designs to choose from, and I believe I fit into both categories. Fusing those two designs would be a challenge, but that is what life is. My colleagues probably wrote the same thing that I did, but I believe that I have what it takes (I am not saying that they don’t.). I want it. I want it more than they do. They may have better designs, but that doesn’t matter to me. As long as I please my client, and myself and I do it to the best of my ability, then I am happy. Everyday, every plate, model, blueprint, lecture and discourse, I will see it fit that I will learn and build not only my skills in the architecture field, but also form an identity of my own.

International

International: This style was conjured during the 1920's and 1930's (Which was the rise of modern architecture). Each country had a different "addition" or "mix" of international architecture. America had a minimalist approach. When constructing an international high-rise or skyscraper, there were four characteristics to it which were: square/rectangular footprint, cubic form, windows ran in broken horizontal forms which made a grid and the facades were angled at 90 degrees. International architecture was known for three concepts:
1. Volume over mass
2. Balance over perceived symmetry
3. No more ornaments.

Beaux Art

Beaux Art is an architectural style that is taught at Ecole des Beaux-art in Paris, France. B-A had a great influence on American architecture from 1880 to 1920. (I find it strange that Beaux Art is taught in a certain school.) Beaux Art has certain characteristics which make it different from other buildings. These characteristics are: Flat roof, Rusticated and raised first story, Arched windows and doors, Symmetry and polychromy (to say the least).

Art Deco and Art Nouveau

 Art Nouveau: Art Nouveau was a philosophy or design concept that peaked from 1890 to 1905. The word Nouveau is french for "new" so art nouveau stands for New Art. Art Nouveau is not limited to architecture, as it can also be used in furniture design. It is as if you should incorporate art to your everyday life. Though the influence of Art Nouveau was seen worldwide, it was most commonly practiced in Europe. EUROPE. The design of art nouveau features soft, delicate, flowing lines. It is more of a woman's approach for design, as it is usually related to circles and soft shapes. Art Deco on the otherhand, is the complete opposite as it aims for straight geometric shapes. 

Art Deco: Art Deco was a design trend that originated in Paris during the 1920's. It saw it's peak during the 1930's and carried on into the WWII era. Art Deco is not limited to just architecture (It spreads out to interior design, industrial design, and fashion to say the least). The concept behind Art Deco is to epitomize elegance, beauty, function and modernity. The use of geometric shapes and linear symmetry personified Art Deco (It was inspired by the geometric shapes of the pyramids of Egypt and the temples of the Aztecs).   It is known for it's ornamental approach, as it was very dependent on it. More design concepts have been derived from Art Deco, such as Cubism and Futurism. 

The Architects

Louis Sullivan: Louis Sullivan was born on September 3, 1856 and grew up in Boston, and at a young age, often found himself walking through the city and observing buildings. He had numerous firm partners, the most successful being "Adler & Sullivan". He is best known for his skyscrapers, as he was the one who made it popular. Prior to the use of steel, buildings usually had a thicker base so that it may support the whole height of the building. The thicker, the higher. With the introduction of steel, Sullivan was able to build taller buildings, but the base wasn't as thick as before. The weight of the building was evenly distributed by the steel-frames instead of having it focus on the base. Sullivan was given the moniker of "The Father of Skyscrapers" as he played a big role in the history of architecture. His designs were of Celtic revival and Art Nouveau. Louis Sullivan coined the phrase "Form follows Function". That quote, up to this day, plays a big role in architecture.

Mies Van Der Rohe: Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe was a German architect who is known as the pioneer modern architecture. During his time, Van Der Rohe wanted to establish his name through designs that were simple and clear. He used steel and plate glass to define interior space. Instead of going the common way of architecture where they use a free-flowing open space, Van Der Rohe used a minimal framework design with his architecture. The design is called "skin and bones" and the philosophy for this design is most commonly known as "less is more". Another philosophy he followed  was "God is in the details". Van Der Rohe wanted his design to be of "his era" just as Gothic was to an era of spiritualism. When overlooking his structures, we can see from the over-all frame to the smallest details that it reassured his effort of expressing modern design.

Frank Lloyd Wright: Frank Lloyd Wright was born on June 8, 1867. He is best known for his works of architecture, but is also a renowned interior designer, educator, and writer. He has designed over 1,000 projects, with 500 having been built. He was a believer and promoter in organic architecture (as seen in his project, Fallingwater) and popularized Usonian architecture (Usonian architecture is characterized by flat roofs and inexpensive construction). Frank Lloyd Wright didn't limit his architecture plans to just residential buildings, he dove into offices, churches, schools, hotels and museums. Wright had multiple personal battles, ranging from family abandonment to not getting along with his peers. While taking up his apprenticeship under Adler & Sullivan, Wright and Sullivan grew a bond which led to Sullivan being Wright's role model/ idol/ master. Wright's design philosophy was that the outside matched the inside. In terms of material, furniture and designs. Later on, he utilized glass into his design, which fit well.

Le Corbusier: Born Charles-Edouard Jeanneret, Le Corbusier was an architect from Switzerland. He was also known for his works  as an designer, urbanist, writer and painter. He is known to be the pioneer of Modern Architecture or the International Style. Most of Le Corbusier's buildings reside in Russia, Central Europe and India, but he does have a structure each in North and South America. The main goal of his "modern" design was to help better the living conditions of those who live in crowded cities. He was considered heartless and egotistic because of his idea of tearing down part of Paris in order to replace it with grids of towers. However, this idea of his has influenced architectural plans to this day. Le Corbusier is known for his influence in urban planning.

Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution played an integral role in the history of Architecture, as it paved a way to different materials and designs. Starting in the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution affected many areas such as mining, agriculture, transportation and technology. The revolution started in Great Britain, and it was a transition that saw an evolution of manual labour. Machines were installed to produce more in less time, and decrease manual labor. The machines needed coal to function. However, there is some controversy to the industrial revolution. Child labour and working women were found amongst the workers during the revolution. Present day, such acts are rarely seen (the child labour is not present now). The revolution saw the changes from agriculture to cities. People migrated to the cities, which led to overpopulation and disease. Despite the downside of the revolution (child/women workers, disease) we can say that it was a turning point in architecture. The use of steel and iron brought about the works of Louis Sullivan. The Eiffel Tower, the Train, Steamboats and the telephone are all products of Industrial Design.

Baroque

Renaissance Architecture was succeeded by Baroque architecture. The movement began in Italy, during the late sixteenth century. The style of Baroque was mainly to display the success of the Church. Baroque architecture was known to characterize the forms, lights, shadows and dramatic intensities of the Buildings. The use of lighting and the effect of it was known as the Chiaroscuro effect, where there is a strong distinction between dark and light, therefore enhancing either one. Also, since light played a big role in Baroque architecture, it was common to find various windows through out the church so light may peek in. The materials they used were mainly putti, wooden figures, plaster, stucco, or marble. The buildings are known to have large paintings on their ceilings. St. Peter's Basilica is the perfect example of Baroque, as all characteristics are present. The facade that surrounds the building has a central projection. I find Baroque architecture to be my favorite (amongst the ones that we have learned so far) because of how it worked its way into the Church. Also, it has a sentimental value to me because my grandfather said that he always wanted a Baroque house, so that is one of my goals in the future. Build one baroque house in his name.

Renaissance

The word Renaissance is derived from the word "La Rinascita", which means Rebirth. The era lasted between the 15th century till the early 17th century. Renaissance originated from Florence, Italy. It preceeded Gothic Architecture and was succeeded by Baroque Architecture. Filippo Brunelleschi is considered as the innovator of the style. Renaissance Architecture quickly spread through out Europe, though each country added their own touch to the design. Buildings built during the Renaissance era are known for their boxy symmetrical designs and repetitions. They made orderly arrangements seem like the new "in" thing. In order to achieve the orderly design, they decided to section the details in boxes, thus creating a clean look. They made use of aedicules, which was also seen in Gothic architecture. In terms of arches, they used a semi-circle arch. A semi-circle arch is an arch that is not fully closed, instead, it is like a protractor. I can say that Renaissance is a little iffy for me. I love the idea of orderly arrangement, but only to a certain extent. When the whole structure is symmetrical, it seems boring (in my opinion). Personally, the only symmetrical thing I would have in my structure is.. Well, it's situational actually. But with the styles in the present day, it's hard to envision something symmetrical (If you don't include hotels/apartments). It seems too bland for me, I wouldn't be able to express myself the way I would want to.

Gothic

Gothic? First thing that comes to mind? Heavy metal, eye shadow, black clothes. But of course that isn't the type of Gothic we're dealing with. The era of Gothic Architecture was from the 12th century and ended around the 16th century. It was preceded by Romanesque architecture, and succeeded by Renaissance. Gothic architecture can be seen as an evolution of Romanesque architecture. They used the gothic scheme for the same buildings as Romanesque (Churches, Monasteries, Palaces and Castles). However, Gothic Architecture separated itself from romanesque through the use of flying buttresses, pointed arches, and ribbed vaults. Gothic architecture was also similar to romanesque with the plans of the churches and cathedrals. Romanesque built churches with a cross plan, where if seen from above, it would resemble a cross. Gothic had the same plan, but changed it up a bit. Instead of resembling a cross, they made it into a plus sign ( + like that). It doesn't necessarily look like a plus, but it was the closest thing I could relate it to. Gothic architecture was known for its use of arches. They had a wide variety of arches (Lancet, Equilateral, Flamboyant, Depressed). It was known throughout Europe, having famous churches/cathedrals in Italy, Spain, Germany, France and England.

Romanesque

After a 3 month hiatus, I am officially back.

The topic we discussed last week was Romanesque architecture. This style began somewhere during the 6th and 10th century in Medieval Europe. When we think of Medieval Europe, first thing that comes to mind is those big, stone castles we see in Movies such as Braveheart. The next thing that comes to mind is the expansion of Christianity (Crusades and all). Romanesque architecture is known to be a combination of Western Roman and Byzantine styles. Following the Romanesque style is Gothic, which is almost the same, except for some few adjustments. Romanesque structures are known to be of massive quality, have thick walls, round arches, sturdy piers, groin vaults, large towers and decorative arcading. Most buildings are simple, having a symmetrical plan and are defined in forms. Religion had a big influence on Romanesque style. The number of churches built during this era outnumbers the number of castles. If we see the plan of most cathedrals, we can see that it is shaped like a cross. I find this idea amazing, because the way they incorporated religion and architecture was very subtle (Besides the fact that the building was religious itself). They were enable to get a popular figure and use it in ways that it isn't obvious to the eye.