Architecture: Words or Shapes
Arch 8011
Research Methods 2013
Jonathan Jordan, 1361176
ARCHITECTURE: WORDS OR SHAPES
Introduction
Architecture can be viewed with two different types of properties. Properties that can be seen like shapes, their composition, the spaces they create and, the colours and textures that make up their appearance. These properties are considered to be visual while other properties are considered to be abstract. These properties can only be described using words; the meanings behind the architecture and the stories that can be told about it. The context, its cultural background and its function also affects how we view architecture. The question is, what is more important to architecture, its shape or the words that describe it?
Aesthetic theory is a greatly important topic in the realm of architecture. It dictates how we view architecture, what makes it beautiful and why it is important to us. This is why there has been so much debate on the topic throughout history. The debate has developed over time and continues today with numerous theorists bringing their ideas forward and taking different positions on the topic.
Position
This paper holds the position that words are more important to architecture than shapes. Conceptualism is stronger than formalism as an architectural idea. The principal argument is that shapes come from words. Le Corbusier is a well-respected architect that discussed this topic. His ideology is given and backed up though experiences of his works. Saint Peter’s dome is a great example where both sides of the argument are addressed. Is the great dome about form or symbolism? Recognizing architecture as parts of a whole shows how beauty is influenced by its context and how important this is. Taste in architecture and how one should judge its beauty also considers what properties are most important. Is taste to be dictated by only visual properties or
Research Methods 2013
Jonathan Jordan, 1361176
ARCHITECTURE: WORDS OR SHAPES
Introduction
Architecture can be viewed with two different types of properties. Properties that can be seen like shapes, their composition, the spaces they create and, the colours and textures that make up their appearance. These properties are considered to be visual while other properties are considered to be abstract. These properties can only be described using words; the meanings behind the architecture and the stories that can be told about it. The context, its cultural background and its function also affects how we view architecture. The question is, what is more important to architecture, its shape or the words that describe it?
Aesthetic theory is a greatly important topic in the realm of architecture. It dictates how we view architecture, what makes it beautiful and why it is important to us. This is why there has been so much debate on the topic throughout history. The debate has developed over time and continues today with numerous theorists bringing their ideas forward and taking different positions on the topic.
Position
This paper holds the position that words are more important to architecture than shapes. Conceptualism is stronger than formalism as an architectural idea. The principal argument is that shapes come from words. Le Corbusier is a well-respected architect that discussed this topic. His ideology is given and backed up though experiences of his works. Saint Peter’s dome is a great example where both sides of the argument are addressed. Is the great dome about form or symbolism? Recognizing architecture as parts of a whole shows how beauty is influenced by its context and how important this is. Taste in architecture and how one should judge its beauty also considers what properties are most important. Is taste to be dictated by only visual properties or