Module 7

1. For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

Architecture: The Science of Design: This video discussed the strategies behind architecture to make it successful in design and functionality. One example provided was the component of wind in high rise buildings. All skyscraper buildings sway in the wind and designers must take this into account, using models, calculations, weather reports and other design tools. A second example was using a computer to control security, lights, and heating and cooling elements in a house to make it more functional for the resident. This can be beneficial to check locked doors and if appliances are on or off, and to conserve energy.

Frank Gehry: Architecture as Art: In this video Frank Gehry discusses his process when creating architecture. He describes his work as a constantly evolving process due to change in thought and technology. He drew inspiration from many past cultures such as Japanese culture and Dadaism, but decided to reject traditional architecture and manipulate light and space through different ways. I was especially interested to see his models and experimentation with materials and focus on functionality with natural light. It was also interesting to see how Gehry’s buildings interacted with the public post-construction such as the Guggenheim Museum.

2. How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

Like Architecture: The Science of Design the textbook discusses Steel-Frame construction and skyscrapers. The text goes into detail with problems that city planners had to deal with such as how high is too high, taking up airspace, blocking out sunlight, and wind forces. The text also touches on the material concrete and its many uses since the Romans. Both the text and video hail concrete as one of the greatest architectural materials to this day.

The text also has a feature on Frank Gehry, praising him for his use of digital design and fabrication with the system CATIA. Through this system Gehry was allowed to monitor is budget closely, an insight to the process that the video was so focused on.

3. What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of Architecture?

Although outdated, the videos I chose to watch provided a decent understanding of how a building is created, through the scientific eye and the design eye. It showed the functional designs that had to be made when creating a building, as well as the add-ons and aesthetics that could serve a personal or community desire.  

4. Why did you choose the films that you watched?

I chose Architecture: The Science of Design because I like examine the process of how things work. It is interesting to learn about the structure of things especially when it is not obvious from the outside.

I chose Frank Gehry: Architecture as Art because I think the world could benefit from looking at things from a functional and aesthetic perspective, especially with architecture. Again it was also an interest to me to examine the personal process of an architect.