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.

Egyptian

When we hear Egyptian Architecture, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Pyramids of course. But there is more to Egyptian Architecture than just pyramids. They built different types of pyramids (slope, bent and step) and each one is unique. Also, when we see pyramids, we think that it's just there for 'design' or a monument such as the obelisk in Washington DC. The truth behind the pyramids is that they are actually burial grounds for the Egyptian Kings and Queens. The tallest and oldest pyramid, pyramid of Giza (which is still intact today), was believed to be built for the 4th dynasty Pharaoh Kfuhu. Over time, the pyramid has lost the outer surface of the pyramid, giving it the illusion of a step pyramid, when in reality, it is a Slope Pyramid.

The pyramid was considered as the final stage of a Burial Place. At first, the Egyptians put their dead in tombs called 'Mastaba'. The Mastaba was a basic, rectangular tomb which included a chapel, and a serdab. The Egyptians then put a step pyramid over the Mastaba. Soon after, they decided to change the step pyramids into slope pyramids. It was an evolution, or a trial and error type of situation. The Egyptians built the pyramids believing that it was a necessity to have a good life-after-death experience.

As I have mentioned with my previous reaction papers, each building or structure has its own purpose. The Babylonians built on platforms to avoid malaria, during the prehistoric age, they built their shelter with what they had around them. The Egyptians built their structures mostly based on religious influence. The Pharaohs believed that having a pyramid was a necessity for life-after-death. They believed that being buried in a gold sarcophagus and having luxurious items buried with you will translate to a better life after death. This new view of architecture has caught my eye mainly because I was so one tracked mind with structures, I believed that I was limited to just designing for shelter. I never really thought of designing structures just for the sake of it (such as the obelisk or sphinx.). I didn't think religion could translate into architecture. Again, this whole thing is a learning experience for me, as I wasn't really exposed to much architecture or structures outside (unless lego counts). One knowledge or fact I can take away from the Egyptian Architecture is that structures actually go deeper than just how they appear. They may have a meaning to why it is constructed that way.

West Asiatic

I found the West Asiatic era of architecture quite interesting. Mostly because I was assigned to report on it. Just kidding. But I did learn a lot from this 'phase' of architecture. What caught my attention was that the Assyrians were able to make use with what they had (in this case, a load of mud) instead of going to other areas to find the resources that were necessary to build structures. The fact that almost ALL of their structures were built of out mud bricks and clay was amazing. It truly is a shame though that most of the structures are damaged now by weather or don't even exist at all. Also, the Assyrian's ability to adapt to their surrounding was a good learn. Since they were located between two rivers, (the Tigris and Euphrates) they had to build their palaces and castles on man-made plateaus to prevent diseases such as Malaria, which was commonly obtained around the river area. This is one approach I believe is essential for all growing architects. We must be able to adapt to our surroundings/ environment. It's like wearing Uggs in the Philippines. Yes it's fashionable, but is it comfortable? Doubt it. I digress. Back to architecture.

Reading about the Assyrians, they had a different style from the Persians (Actually, the Persians pretty much copied everything about the Assyrians. Use of mud and all.) One piece of art that caught my eye was the use of an arch on their doorways. Sure, people will think 'Oh, but arches have always been a part of design.' Yes, I know that. But it was they way they came up with the arch. Apparently, When the Assyrians were building their doorways, they 'accidentally' made the two sides of the door meet at the top, which in turn lessened the consumption of clay and gave it a unique look. This is what caught my eye. They accidentally discovered a technique that lessened consumption. It was amazing that they were able to find a technique accidentally, and what's more amazing is that we still use arches today. Discovery is discovery, whether it is by accident or not. 

The West Asiatic age was basically an age of Evolution. From the Assyrians, the Persians were able to take essential techniques and styles and build on it, putting their own 'taste' in the design. Which brings me to a question that I have been pondering about. (Blockmates; feel free to put your opinions and thoughts. That is if any of you read my blog) With architecture today, Are you going to build upon a design or style that currently exists, or make a new wave?

R.I.P OFF

Philosophy: Big doesn't always mean better.

Design Concept: Stripped.

Concept: Nothing to Hide.

Working Concept: Clarity. Exposed from all angles, No extra pieces.

Philosophy: Go Green.

Design Concept: Breathing Walls.

Concept: The Green House.

Working Concept: Eco-friendly.  Helps the environment, incorporating the environment.

Philosophy: Make the most with what you have.

Design Concept: Structured so that we can fully utilize Mother Nature.

Concept: Using Mother Nature. Earthly Structure.

Working Concept: Green powered. Uses every aspect of the environment; Rainfall, Sunlight, Temperature Regulation.

Logos and Title Block

I wasn't able to go out and find a scanner big enough for the A3, so I decided to take pictures instead

The design for the class is the top one of the two. 

3 Architects to emulate

This blog will talk about three architects that I would have inspired my way of designing and style when it comes to structures.

Tom Phifer: Tom Phifer headed the construction of the North Carolina Museum of Art. His plan for this building was so that it would disappear into the landscape. This is why I chose Tom Phifer. I loved his concept on the museum where he will be able to take a building, then make it blend into the surrounds. In this case, a lush section of grass and trees. I would like to be able to do this, the blending and all, and take it a step further by actually incorporating the environment around me (Rain, dead leaves and all). In a world that is suffering from global catastrophes (Global warming, pollution, Illegal logging), we have to recognize that if we don't do anything about it soon, we will face dire consequences. The world is taking big steps in architecture, but I want to take a side step from that, and help realize that we can move forward in terms of building and life, and at the same time, take a lunge by helping our environment.

Carlos Ferrarter: Carlos Ferrarter is the principal of OAB (Office of Architecture in Barcelona) and is known for his design with the boardway on Poniente Beachfront of Benidorm. The reason I chose to include architect Ferrarter in my list is because he was able to to give a touch of new-wave in a setting surrounded with a different sense of style. The buildings surround the mile-long boardwalk are different, I wouldn't know what style they are, but they look old school or modern. Like Architect Ferrarter, I would like to be able to incorporate something new and different in any setting possible.

Zaha Hadid: Though this might be cliche (or not), I find Architect Zaha Hadid the perfect person to emulate when it comes to architecture. Not only are her structures awe-inspiring, but the way she made it to being a big name architect is what caught my attention. When she was fresh out of college, she struggled with her designs, often labelled as too difficult to construct. This is what I like about her. Just because your struggling, it doesn't mean you should give it. It took architect Hadid plenty of years to have her work recognized. And now, she is ranked 69 on Forbes 'The World's 100 Most Powerful Women.'