INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE

ADS 1100
Kenya College of Interior Design
COURSE OUTLINE

1. Defining architecture
2. Famous architects
3. Local architects
4. Placing architecture
5. History of Architecture
6. Design process
7. Architectural presentation
8. Construction Process
9. Professionals in construction
10. Future of architecture
Architecture
The art or practice of designing and constructing buildings.

The style in which a building is designed and constructed.

The etymology of the word ‘architecture’ can be defined as arkhi meaning chief and
tekton meaning builder or carpenter.
Architecture
The style in which a building is designed and constructed; - African architecture

- Islamic architecture

- Modern architecture

- Gothic architecture

- Futuristic architecture

- etc
By Urko Sanchez
The Architect
The etymology of the word ‘architecture’ can be defined
as arkhi meaning chief and tekton meaning builder or
carpenter.
PLACING ARCHITECTURE

In architectural terms, ‘context’ generally refers to the place in which architecture or buildings are located.

Context is specific and significantly affects how an architectural idea is generated.

Many architects use context to provide clear connection with their architectural concept, so the resultant
building is integrated and almost camouflaged as part of its environment.
PLACING ARCHITECTURE
Site Most simply, just to visit a site and watch and record the lifecycle of it can provide clues
about how to produce a suitable design response.

Architecture belongs somewhere, it will rest on a particular place: a site.

The site will have distinguishing characteristics in terms of topography,
location and historical definitions
An urban site will have a physical history that will inform the architectural
concept:

- Surrounding buildings

- Materials

- Form

- Height

- Type of details

- Orientation

- Culture

A landscape site may have a less obvious

history. However, its physical qualities, its topography,
geology and plant life for example, will serve as indicators for
architectural design.
Site Analysis
Techniques to record and understand a site are varied, from physical
surveys (measuring quantitatively what is there) to qualitatively
interpreting aspects of light, sound and experience.
Site Analysis
Site Analysis
Site Survey
The condition of any site will need to be recorded in a survey.

A survey can be described as a record of something already in existence, and can be

produced either in the form of a physical map or model, or a measured drawing that
explains where doors, windows or boundaries exists, as well as specific information such as
relative heights of surrounding buildings, elevation details or heights of ground level across
a site.
Site Survey
Considerations: - Orientation

- Climate

- Materials

- Sense of Place
1. Orientation
In terms of architecture and building, orientation describes an
understanding of how a building’s position on a site can influence
specific factors concerning its design.
How light affects our appreciation of buildings, and the activities we
experience within them, is one of the most fundamental aspects of
architectural design. Natural light in interior space brings life, a
moving dimension and a connection with time and the outside.
 2. Climate
Climate is a key contributing factor to the specific nature
of site, and climatic variations influence many factors
associated with architecture. Buildings will serve as a
moderator from the inside to outside:

Consider:

- Temperature - Precipitation

- Surface run-off

- Humidity
3. Materials
The palette of materials chosen for a building will collectively paint an
impression of it. Choosing this palette of materials relies on a clear
understanding of the site. Each site, whether urban or landscape, has an
intrinsic materiality.

Consider:

- Local availability

- Cost

- Safety

- Durability

- Cultural appropriateness
4. Sense of Place
The concept of memory of place is based on the premise that impressionable places are strongly remembered; they have significant characteristics, sounds, textures, events that make
them memorable. For architects, understanding the sense of place is particularly important when responding to, for example, a historic site or a building in a conservation area.

Consider:

- History

- Future

- Cultural appropriateness Understanding History Design and innovation

builds on precedent,

on ideas and concepts that have evolved over time.

Placing a building on a site involves several steps and considerations. Here's a general overview of the process:

1. Site Selection: Choose a suitable location for your building based on factors such as zoning regulations, accessibility, environmental impact, and proximity to utilities.
2. Site Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of the site, including topography, soil conditions, drainage patterns, and existing vegetation. This information will inform the design and
construction process.
3. Design Development: Work with architects, engineers, and other professionals to develop the design of the building. Consider factors such as building size, orientation, aesthetics,
functionality, and compliance with local building codes.
4. Site Planning: Determine the optimal placement of the building on the site. Consider factors such as solar orientation, views, access roads, parking areas, pedestrian pathways,
landscaping, and setbacks from property lines.
5. Permitting and Approvals: Obtain necessary permits and approvals from local authorities before proceeding with construction. This may include zoning permits, building permits,
environmental permits, and other regulatory approvals.
6. Site Preparation: Prepare the site for construction by clearing vegetation, grading the land, and addressing any soil stabilization or drainage issues.
7. Foundation Construction: Construct the foundation of the building, which provides a stable base and transfers the building's load to the ground. The type of foundation will depend on
the soil conditions and structural requirements.
8. Building Construction: Build the superstructure of the building according to the approved design and construction documents. This involves erecting walls, floors, roofs, and other
structural elements.
9. Utilities Installation: Install utilities such as water supply, sewerage, electricity, gas, and telecommunications to serve the building. Coordinate with utility providers and ensure
compliance with regulations.
10. Landscaping and Site Amenities: Complete landscaping, hardscaping, and site amenities such as parking lots, sidewalks, outdoor lighting, and recreational areas.
11. Final Inspections and Occupancy: Once construction is complete, undergo final inspections by relevant authorities to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. Obtain a
certificate of occupancy before the building can be occupied or used.
12. Maintenance and Management: Implement a maintenance plan to preserve the building and site over time. This may include regular inspections, repairs, landscaping maintenance, and
facility management.

"Physical history" in the context of informing architectural concepts refers to the historical and physical context of a site or a building that influences the design and conceptual approach taken
by architects. This concept acknowledges that the built environment is often shaped by layers of history, including cultural, social, economic, and environmental factors. Here are some ways in
which physical history can inform architectural concepts:

1. Site Context: The physical characteristics of a site, such as topography, climate, vegetation, and natural features, provide important cues for architectural design. For example, a building
situated on a sloping site may incorporate terraces or stepped levels to harmonize with the natural landscape.
2. Historical Context: Understanding the historical context of a site or a building can inspire architectural concepts that pay homage to the past while embracing contemporary design
principles. Architects may draw inspiration from architectural styles, materials, or construction techniques that have historical significance in the region.
3. Cultural Context: The cultural heritage of a place, including its traditions, customs, and local identity, can inform architectural concepts. Architects may incorporate cultural elements,
symbolism, or motifs into their designs to create a sense of place and belonging.
 4. Urban Fabric: The urban fabric of a city or neighborhood, shaped by centuries of development and evolution, can inform architectural concepts for new buildings or urban
interventions. Architects may respond to the scale, massing, and rhythm of existing buildings to create designs that contribute positively to the urban context.
5. Adaptive Reuse and Preservation: Buildings with historical significance or architectural merit may be preserved or adaptively reused to retain their physical history while
accommodating contemporary needs. Architects involved in preservation projects often draw inspiration from the building's original design intent and historical context to inform their
restoration or adaptive reuse strategies.
6. Ecological Context: Increasingly, architects are considering the ecological context of a site, including its natural systems and environmental sustainability, as a key factor in informing
architectural concepts. Designs may integrate passive solar strategies, natural ventilation, and sustainable materials to respond to the site's ecological context and minimize environmental
impact.
7. Social Context: Architectural concepts can also be informed by the social context of a place, including demographic trends, social dynamics, and community needs. Architects may
engage stakeholders and community members to understand their aspirations and concerns, ensuring that the design reflects the social context and fosters inclusivity and social cohesion.

Absolutely, an urban site's physical history can profoundly influence the architectural concept developed for it. Here's how the physical history of an urban site can inform architectural concepts:

1. Historical Buildings and Structures: Urban sites often contain historical buildings and structures that contribute to the area's character and sense of place. Architects may take cues
from these structures in terms of architectural style, materials, and detailing when designing new buildings or renovations in the area. They may also incorporate elements of adaptive
reuse or restoration to preserve the historical significance of these structures.
2. Urban Fabric and Layout: The layout and organization of streets, blocks, and public spaces in an urban area reflect its historical development patterns. Architects may consider the
urban fabric and spatial relationships between buildings when conceptualizing new developments or infill projects. They may seek to respect the existing scale, rhythm, and character of
the urban context while proposing designs that enhance connectivity, accessibility, and urban vitality.
3. Cultural and Social Significance: Urban sites often have cultural and social significance associated with historical events, communities, or activities that have occurred in the area.
Architects may draw inspiration from this cultural heritage to inform their design concepts, incorporating symbolic elements, public art, or interpretive features that celebrate the site's
cultural identity and foster a sense of belonging for residents and visitors.
4. Ecological and Environmental Context: The ecological and environmental context of an urban site, including its natural features, waterways, vegetation, and microclimates, can inform
architectural concepts focused on sustainability and resilience. Architects may design buildings and public spaces that respond to the site's ecological context, incorporating green
infrastructure, passive design strategies, and renewable energy systems to mitigate environmental impact and enhance urban biodiversity.
5. Infrastructure and Utilities: Historical infrastructure and utilities, such as transportation networks, water systems, and utilities corridors, may influence the layout and design of new
developments in urban areas. Architects may need to consider existing infrastructure constraints and opportunities when proposing architectural concepts, ensuring compatibility with
infrastructure requirements while maximizing the site's development potential.

Architectural design is significantly influenced by the location of the site. Several factors related to the site's location shape architectural decisions:

1. Climate and Weather: The climate of the site, including temperature range, precipitation patterns, wind direction, and sunlight exposure, influences architectural design. Architects
design buildings to respond to local climatic conditions by incorporating features such as shading devices, natural ventilation, insulation, and thermal mass to enhance occupant comfort
and energy efficiency.
2. Topography and Landscape: The topography and landscape characteristics of the site, such as slope, elevation, natural features, and views, inform architectural design decisions.
Architects respond to site topography by adapting building massing, orientation, and foundation design to integrate with the natural terrain and capitalize on scenic vistas or natural
amenities.
3. Geological and Soil Conditions: Geological and soil conditions affect site preparation, foundation design, and construction methods. Architects collaborate with engineers to assess soil
stability, seismic risk, and other geological factors to ensure structural integrity and safety in architectural design.
4. Cultural and Historical Context: The cultural and historical context of the site influences architectural design by informing aesthetic preferences, heritage considerations, and
contextual references. Architects draw inspiration from local architectural traditions, historical landmarks, and cultural symbolism to create designs that resonate with the site's identity
and heritage.
5. Urban Context: In urban locations, the surrounding built environment, including neighboring buildings, streetscapes, and urban fabric, influences architectural design. Architects
respond to the urban context by considering building scale, massing, setbacks, and façade treatments to create designs that complement and contribute positively to the existing urban
fabric.
6. Regulatory and Zoning Requirements: Local building codes, zoning regulations, and planning policies dictate certain parameters that architects must adhere to when designing
buildings. Architects navigate regulatory requirements related to setbacks, height restrictions, site coverage, and land use zoning to ensure compliance and compatibility with the site's
location.
7. Accessibility and Transportation: The accessibility and transportation infrastructure surrounding the site influence architectural design decisions related to site access, parking
facilities, pedestrian circulation, and connectivity to public transit. Architects integrate design features that facilitate ease of access and mobility for users while responding to
transportation patterns and circulation needs.
8. Ecological and Environmental Context: The ecological context of the site, including natural habitats, water bodies, and ecosystems, informs architectural design decisions related to
environmental conservation and sustainability. Architects incorporate green design strategies, such as stormwater management, habitat preservation, and native landscaping, to minimize
environmental impact and enhance ecological resilience.
Architecture uses precedents from social and cultural history and applies these influences
to contemporary buildings, forms and structures.

Having a historical understanding of buildings is an essential part of architectural design

because it allows a relationship between the material, physical and formal developments
that have been previously explored by other architects. Reacting against, or responding
to these ideas has been the basis of architectural evolution.