AR 130 Theories of Architecture

Module 1: Introduction

Congratulations for choosing architecture as your future profession! Likewise, welcome

to Mapua and the School of Architecture, Interior Design and Built Environment, and to
the BS Architecture program.

This course is a good introduction to the program in the sense that it will present
architecture as logical and artistic endeavor in designing shelters, buildings and man-
made environment.

It is called Theories of Architecture 1 because it is a guide to your understanding of

people’s appreciation, utilization and behavior inside built-environs, which are relevant
to your design processes as an (aspiring) architect.

With this course, you will be learning architecture through several theories and
methodologies, understand the relationships between the physical environment and
human behavior, various ways people perceive the surroundings, proxemic sensitivities,
and sensibilities in organizing forms and space.

Why is it important for you to get to know about the

profession through the point of view of architectural
theories? What are theories anyway?

Theories are those structured ideas that explain a

phenomenon, and allow you to predict future
phenomenon given certain conditions. Architectural
theories are those ideas that explain phenomenon
related to spaces/environment, people’s use of these
spaces, people’s perception of these spaces, and
people’s behavior within these spaces. Some of these
theories can answer questions often encountered in the
design of spaces, such as:

• How to compose a dynamic character for buildings? A formal character? A

relaxing character? A welcoming character?
• Why is visual appeal essential in architecture?
• How do people identify the main entrances of a building? And why is it
important that people readily identify the entrance of a building?
• Why are churches often symmetrically built, with high ceiling, tall doors, and
windows placed at higher elevation compared to other structures? Why are
churches often monumental? How come toilet doors and ceiling are often built
lower and smaller that those of a church?
• Why are cool colors better used in bedrooms and areas meant for relaxation,
while bright colors are better for activity areas such as gyms, kitchen and
workshops?
• What spatial qualities are required for work that demand intense concentration?
 AR 130 Theories of Architecture

• Why is it better to use push plates instead of door knobs for emergency exits?

Answering similar questions during a design process are likely to result to better
design, appreciation and utilization of buildings.

Course Outcomes:

After 11 weeks, by the end of this quarter, it is expected that you will be able to

• identify the semantics of theories and principles in architectural design

• translate basic elements and principles of form and space in architecture (and
approximate respective design application)
• assess proxemic requirements of space.

Topics to be covered:

• Form & space

• Architectural Visual Elements
• Architectural Order
• Space Organization & circulation
• Gestalt Psychology
• Anthropometrics
• Proportion, Scale
• Color Theory
• Proxemics
• Circulation & Movement
• Territoriality & Stewardship
• Behavior-setting, pattern language
• Environmental psychology

The course will have the following means of assessing your learning progress:

• Quizzes and assignment (at least 3 quizzes + assignment) = 25%

• Projects & portfolio (at least 3 assessment tools) = 45%
• Midterm and Departmental Final exam = 30%

Are you up to the challenge? Are you ready to devote time, interest and effort for the
course? What else do you plan to take and extract from this course?

Help make this course more exciting, interesting and productive than currently
intended to be. Be ready to make models, videos, fun & info-filled presentations, and
be part of lively discussions. Be ready to ask questions. Even if the answer is not readily
available, it is important that questions that facilitate productive discussions are raised
in this course. Enjoy!
 AR 130 Theories of Architecture

Material requirements:

1. Internet connection (for blackboard interaction), video & presentation uploads

and e-library use.
2. Drawing materials:
• 18”x12” sketch pad
• H, HB and 6B pencil
• Straight edges such as 30° & 60° triangles, and scale
• Protractor
• Compass
• Eraser, sharpener, erasing shield

3. Model-making tools & materials

• Manila folders, corrugated boards, kraft paper
• Cutting edge (cutter, preferably large) and blade refills
• Cutting mat
• Glue
• Masking tape
• others (to be determined later)

4. Video presentation and class report materials

• Video/photo-capable mobile phones or camera
• Editing app
• Presentation app such as power point, pdf-maker
• computer

References:

• Francis DK Ching. Form, Structure, Order. John Wiley & Sons. NJ. 2007
• Edward T. Hall. Hidden Dimensions. Garden City/Anchor Books. 1966
• Paul Alan Johnson. The Theory of Architecture: concepts, themes and
practices. Van Nostrand Reinhold. 1994
• Dak Kopec. Environmental Psychology for Design. Fairchild Books. 2012