INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE Page no2

INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE

1.    INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE

Architecture is the mother of arts of sculpture, painting and allied decorative crafts. Architecture is the symbol of power and glory. It is a record of continuous evolution and adapted to meet the changing needs of nations in their religious, political and domestic development.

Meaning of the architecture is well understood with the study of built environment. How environment, culture, religion, social values and norms influence to create built environment.  However, there are some basic elements which can be helpful to understand the exact meaning of the architecture.

The fundamentals of architecture, in general, are Introduction ,  creativity, architectural design,  context & architecture  and  architecture & society .

Architecture has no meaning without context. Lahore can be served as a case study to develop the understanding of the built environment. The historical background of the Lahore can support to clear the concepts of the students about architecture.

There are systems which define the meaning of architecture.

1.    Architectural systems and orders

2.    Spatial systems

3.    Structural systems

4.    Enclosure system

5.    Circulation system

6.    Context

1:     ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS

The architecture of space, structure and enclosure can be defined with the help of following elements.

·         Organizational pattern, relationships, clarity, hierarchy

·         Formal image and  spatial definition

·         Qualities of shape, color, texture, scale, proportion

·         Qualities of surfaces, edges and openings.

Architecture is experienced through movement in space-time by

·         Approach and entry

·         Path configuration and excess

·         Sequence of spaces

·         Light, view, touch, hearing and smell

It is achieved by means of technology considering

·         Structure and enclosure

·         Environmental protection and comfort

·         Health, safety and welfare

·         Durability and sustainability

Accommodating a program of

·         User’s requirements, needs, aspirations

·         Socio-cultural factors

·         Economic factors

·         Legal constraints

·         Historical traditions and precedents

Compatible with its context

·         Site and environment

·         Climate, sun, wind, temperature , protection

·         Geography, soils, topography, vegetation, water

·         Sensory and cultural characteristics of the place

2:     SPATIAL SYSTEMS

The three dimensional integration of program elements and spaces accommodates the multiple functions and relationships of a house.

3:     STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

A grid of columns supports horizontal beams and slabs. The cantilever acknowledges the direction of approach along the longitudinal axis.

4:     ENCLOSURE  SYSTEMS

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