ARCH 1101      INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE

WEEK 1       Introduction: The Role of the Architect

            The Profession of Architecture  What do architects do? How do I become an architect? What roles do architects play in our society?  These are the types of questions investigated in this first class.  Students will be introduced to the BArch and BTech curricula of Citytech to understand the various paths they can follow to pursue a career in architecture and related fields.

Vitruvian Triad  Using the framework of the Vitruvian triad as a simple starting point, students will be introduced to fundamental concepts of architecture and to the methods of understanding buildings.

Class Schedule

            Discussion and Presentation:  Becoming an architect: BArch and BTech at Citytech

Lab:

  1. In-class Writing Exercise:  What do you see? Write a one-page description of the building projected on the screen.
  2. In-class Video: Archiculture: experience architectural studio culture with a visit to Pratt:

Homework Assignment:

  1. Purchase a sketchbook (8”x10” or so), an architect’s scale, drawing pencils, and a triangle.

       2) Read Vitruvius, Ten Books of Architecture
      Book I, Chapter 2: The Fundamental Principles of Architecture
      Book III, Chapter 1: On Symmetry: In Temples and in the Human Body
              http://www.gutenberg.org/files/20239/20239-h/20239-h.htm

3) Writing Assignment: In Book III, chapter 1, Vitruvius relates symmetry to the human body. What does Vitruvius mean by symmetry? How is the human body symmetrical? How is a building symmetrical?

1. Write a 200- to 250-word (long paragraph) and describe what Vitruvius means by symmetry. Your paper should be written in full sentences in paragraph form using 12 point Ariel font on 8 1/2 x 11 inch paper. Place your name, date, course number (ARCH1101), professor’s name (Prof. Duddy), and assignment number (Assignment 1) in a column in the upper left-hand corner of the paper.

2. Write a 200- to 250-word (long paragraph) and discuss the importance of the principles of Order, Arrangement, and Eurythmy as described by Vitruvius.