Experiencing Architecture

Since I finished the book a while ago, I think it'll be a good idea to peruse it again and jot down some of my own notes.

Chapter 1 - Basic Observations
- putting together things that belong
- learning from architecture of the past but not trying to recreate it
- appropriate design for environment
- different people experience architecture in different ways
- hard vs. soft
- man's desire to build shelter

Chapter 2 - Solids and Cavities in Architecture
- visual process --> observation
- supported / supporting
- relation of forms
- solid vs. cavity
- figure vs. ground

Chapter 3 - Contrasting Effects of Solids and Cavities
- light against deep recesses
- balance and harmony vs restless / dramatic
- every period of architecture is followed by a period of deviation from it
- harmony with nature

Chapter 4 - Architecture Experienced as Color Planes
- color and light
- hard materials that look like fabric (light)
- importance of decoration
- buildings can appear heavier or lighter than they actually are
- making structures appear thin or light

Chapter 5 - Scale and Proportion
- Pythagorean theorem, golden section, golden ratio
- vibration
- Le Corbusier's Le Modulor and DaVinci's Vetruvian Man

Chapter 6 - Rhythm in Architecture
- subdivisions (windows, doorways, etc.)
- repetition
- rhythm borrowed from other arts such as music and dancing
- axial symmetry
- harmonic proportions vs. tension and mystery
- M.I.T. building's undulation

Chapter 7 - Textural Effects
- intricate patterns of Cherokee baskets
- satisfaction of certain materials over others
- materials must be used with integrity
- honesty of material
- lacquer vs. paint
- when using a cheap material, good design can make it look expensive
- interesting vs. homogenous textures

Chapter 8 - Daylight in Architecture
- daylight is the one true variable but extremely important in its own right
- lighting can affect spatial impressions
- daylight vs. indoor light
- quality vs. quantity
- lighting can add effect, mood, perspective
- good design considers light
- windows are good devices to control light (Holland utilized a very efficient system of windows)

Chapter 9 - Color in Architecture
- architecture does not totally rely on color... the emphasis lies on form
- nature supplies the colors
- link between material and color
- colors can be symbols, create mood or space, express character and spirit
- color theory
- the right color can leave a lasting impression

Chapter 10 - Hearing Architecture
- echo, reverberation
- appropriate acoustics should be considered
- structures can be built to carry sound or absorb it
- use of drapery, rugs, furniture can change acoustics