Here are some architecture class notes:
Introduction to Architecture
● What is architecture?
○ The art and science of designing buildings and other structures.
○ Architecture involves creating spaces that are both functional and
aesthetically pleasing.
○ Architects consider factors such as function, form, space, light,
materials, and context.
● The history of architecture
○ Ancient architecture (e.g., Egyptian pyramids, Greek temples,
Roman aqueducts)
○ Medieval architecture (e.g., Gothic cathedrals, Romanesque
churches)
○ Renaissance architecture (e.g., Florence Cathedral, St. Peter's
Basilica)
○ Modern architecture (e.g., Bauhaus, International Style)
○ Postmodern architecture (e.g., deconstructivism, new
classicalism)
● Architectural styles and movements
○ Different architectural styles and movements have emerged
throughout history, each with its own unique characteristics.
○ Some common architectural styles include Baroque, Rococo, Art
Deco, and Brutalism.
○ Some common architectural movements include Modernism,
Postmodernism, and Deconstructivism.
● Architectural design process
○ The architectural design process typically involves the following
steps:
■ Pre-design phase (site analysis, programming, feasibility
study)
■ Schematic design phase (development of initial design
concepts)
■ Design development phase (refinement of design concepts)
■ Construction document phase (preparation of construction
drawings and specifications)
■ Construction administration phase (overseeing the
construction process)
Architectural Theory
● Architectural theory
○ Architectural theory is the study of the fundamental principles
that underlie the design and construction of buildings.
○ Architectural theorists explore questions such as:
■ What is the purpose of architecture?
■ What makes a building good architecture?
■ How does architecture relate to society and culture?
● Key architectural theorists
○ Some of the most influential architectural theorists include:
■ Vitruvius (Roman architect and engineer)
■ Leon Battista Alberti (Renaissance architect and theorist)
■ Gottfried Semper (19th-century German architect and
theorist)
■ Le Corbusier (20th-century Swiss architect and theorist)
■ Louis Kahn (20th-century American architect and theorist)
● Architectural criticism
○ Architectural criticism is the evaluation of the quality of
architectural works.
○ Architectural critics consider factors such as:
■ The building's functionality
■ The building's aesthetics
■ The building's social and cultural impact
■ The building's environmental impact
Architectural Technology
● Building materials
○ Architects must have a thorough understanding of different
building materials and their properties.
○ Common building materials include:
■ Wood
■ Concrete
■ Steel
■ Masonry
■ Glass
● Building systems
○ Architects must also be familiar with different building systems,
such as:
■ Structural systems
■ Mechanical systems (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
■ Electrical systems
■ Plumbing systems
● Building codes and regulations
○ Architects must comply with building codes and regulations to
ensure the safety and health of building occupants.
● Computer-aided design (CAD)
○ CAD software is used to create detailed drawings and models of
buildings.
○ CAD software can also be used to analyze building performance
and simulate construction processes.
Architectural Practice
● Professional practice
○ Architects are licensed professionals who are responsible for the
design and construction of buildings.
○ Architects work with clients to develop project briefs and design
concepts.
○ Architects also coordinate with engineers, contractors, and other
professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time and
within budget.1
● Ethics and sustainability
○ Architects have a responsibility to design buildings that are safe,
functional, and sustainable.
○ Architects must also adhere to ethical principles, such as
honesty, integrity, and fairness.
● Emerging trends in architecture
○ Some of the emerging trends in architecture include:
■ Sustainable design
■ Digital design and fabrication
■ Parametric design
■ Adaptive architecture
■ Smart buildings
This is just a brief overview of some of the key topics that are covered in
architecture classes. I hope it helps!
