The Islamic University of Gaza

Faculty of Engineering
Department of Architectural Engineering

EARC 2314 Visual Training

Exercise 5: Defining Space (Horizontal Elements)

Bass house in Fort Worth, Paul Rudolph, 1970

Overview:
When we place a two-dimensional figure on a piece of paper, it influences the shape of the white space around it. In a
similar manner, any three-dimensional form naturally articulates the volume of space surrounding it and generates a field
of influence or territory which it claims as its own. This exercise explores generating complex form - space compositions
using only horizontal planar forms.

Assignment: Defining Space

Step 1. Select one of the primary shapes (Circle, triangle, square) and create 10 horizontal layers, vertically stacked,
from the same shape. Layers should be 20 cm wide, 0.5cm thick, and spaced every 3cm.
Step 2. Apply the concepts of space definition using base, elevated, depressed, and overhead planes. Also apply
subtraction and addition techniques to the horizontal forms (while preserving their original shape) to change the
relation between interior and exterior spaces.
Step 3. Draw a plan, an elevation, and a perspective view for the form on a 50x35cm paper panel. Use hatching or
coloring techniques to apply shade and shadows on your drawings.
Step 4. Build a physical model for the form you have designed.
Step 5. Submit photographs of your mid work and final work on Moodle by the dates assigned by your instructor.

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