Unit Summary 1 (weeks 1-4)

Throughout the first week we learned about objects, spaces, buildings, and places.  We learned about interpreting architecture in the past.  One of the main items mentioned was Stonehenge. A question that we discussed, why were circles chosen in this structure?  Circles have multiple meanings and in this case symbolize equality: each stone is important. Without one stone it is no longer a complete circle. The center of the circle has significance because everything is centered around that one spot.  Another subject that was touched upon was how humans make connections to the cosmos. They make connections between architecture and what is found in the nature surrounding them. The stones of Stonehenge align with the sunrise on the summer solstice. Is this a coincidence? I think not. It is a prime example of how humans connect architecture to nature.

The next week we moved into discussing circles, stacks, and groups. There are connections we can make to each of these. Circles relate to the sun or the moon. They also symbolize sacred spots or connections. Groups resemble groves of trees, or groups of people or objects. Stacks are related to mountains or gathering resources. Throughout the ages architecture has always been compiled of these different categories. For example: If you look at temples or palaces, you will notice that they are made up of groves and stacks. Architecture can also be made to emulate what we know best, the human body. It was discussed that columns resemble humans because of their height and their structure. There are many examples of architecture that encompasses all three but one in particular would be the Treasury of Atreus in Greece.

During week number three we discussed the buildings on top the Athens acropolis .The acropolis is defined as quiet area. Due to the large amount of warfare, most cities were sectioned into an acropolis and a lower town. This acropolis consisted of the Parthenon, the Erechtheum, and the Propylaea.  The acropolis was designed with a certain layout. Naos is the sanctuary and tells the story of Athena. It is within the Parthenon. The Propylaea consists of ionic columns and its design is used in Greek architecture.  The Parthenon’s columns were set up to make everything seem more proportionate. The Propylaea’s columns were designed to direct you around the structure. The Erechthium's columns were created in the image of women. Symbolically their breasts were applied to show us the way.

The fourth and final week we discussed how empires stand tall throughout the world. When you think about architecture you think about its structure and its function. In Roman architecture there are three building types. The Utilitas, Firmitas, and the Venustas meanings are useful arrangement, performance, and delight.  Another topic we discussed was how roads were typically designed in grids and how the world is seemingly structured around water.  The roads came first and the water came second.

Throughout the first four weeks we talked about relating architecture to the past and putting history into practice. We related architecture to nature and discussed examples of the reasoning behind certain architectural decisions. We looked at the global history of architecture.