week #7

1. For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

Prairie Style:

Frank Lloyd Wright was the first to build with open floor plans. He has influenced architecture around the world. He felt that homes should reflect the time and place in which they stand. He opened up homes so one room linked to another. He moved the fireplace to the center freeing up the walls for windows. He brings down the ceiling forcing the eye out the window. He also designs the homes to follow the sun. He wanted privacy, you can’t see in, but you can see everything. He influenced other architects such as Ron Thom who was inspired by Wrights organic style.

Architecture: The science of Design

         Because of the discovery of concrete and steel, skyscrapers were then possible. Building “up” brings on tons of possibilities in housing and other businesses. Buildings are made by pile drivers up to 60 meters down until it can be supported. Or they are placed on concrete slabs. The wind plays a huge role in the type of structure. Building models does Wind Tunnel Testing and using a giant ventilator to make the wind, speed and turbulence is collected and then send to the architect to see what type of weather the building can withstand. Trees may be planted in certain spots to break up the wind pattern.

Smart apartments or houses can be controlled entirely by a computer. All the electronics are connected and controlled, the lights, shades, appliances; you name it, the computer does it.

Computerized voice systems have also come into play. They recognize our voice and are then activated, to turn on the lights, tv, and anything else electric in your home.

         There are ruins still standing made by the Greeks and Romans from thousands of years ago. Now we go another step and reinforce the concrete with steel and metal.

Classical Architecture:

         A Classic architectural style is used to show importance, such as the home of the President. Greek and Roman influence is all over. The home of the Queen in English is surrounded by modern architecture, but it stands in its classical style and a beautiful work of art. Renaissance architecture is also found in England. Lord Burlington of England went to Italy to study Palladio’s work. These beautiful buildings stand out among British style. Neoclassical Design is the next movement; the Greek orders, or columns also influence this style.

Frank Gehry: Architecture as Art

         Frank Gehry makes art when he designs buildings, he doesn’t like to remake anything or copy another building. He is very critical on himself but uses this so evolve and create new things. Sketches are the first step, and then innovation and creativity take over.  First Frank made residential homes, moving onto large-scale projects that take in sculpture as apart of his work.

         Building and location plays a role in his work. There is also a harmonic relationship between the space and its users. Natural light and functionality are key aspects to his work as well as experimenting with materials.

         He uses new technology to design these masterpieces. He can now analyze and calculate measurements digitally; of course hand drawn sketches are still done. Now anything can be done.

        

2. How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

        

These videos explain in more depth the great influence of Greek and Roman Architecture around the world. The videos also relate to the text because of the explanation of materials as well as new innovations and technology used in building these beautiful works of art. The videos also explain the process of which a building is made, as well as the perspective of the architect.

3. What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of Architecture?

        

I enjoy watching these films, I think they help my understanding of the material in the text as well as add to my knowledge. Seeing these building bring on new views as well as a new perspective of the work, knowing the time and work that goes into it. Also watching these videos I begin to form an appreciation for the architecture, these beautiful building are truly pieces of art.

4. From the group of four that you had a choice: Why did you choose that film?

         I chose Frank Gerhy: Architecture as art; because I truly think that architecture is a work of art. The time and passion of these building take more then a painting. These architects dedicate their life to making these structures. They are so knowledgeable and without them I wouldn’t have a home.