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Book I – Vitruvius Written in the 1 st century BC Published in English by the Harvard University Press in 1914. Preface. What did Vitruvius say in regard to public buildings? They were to be utilitarian They should be paid for by the provinces They should be distinguished
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Book I – VitruviusWritten in the 1st century BCPublished in English by the Harvard University Press in 1914
Preface What did Vitruvius say in regard to public buildings? • They were to be utilitarian • They should be paid for by the provinces • They should be distinguished • They should be paid for by the Imperator Caesar
The Education of an Architect • What does Vitruvius mean by stating that the knowledge of architect is the “child of practice and theory”? • What is Vitruvius’ distinction between “the thing signified” and “that which gives it significance”? How is this distinction realized in design? • To signify is to be a sign • Significance relates to the concept of meaning • Consider the conceptual relationship between “form and content”
The Education of the Architect • What knowledge and skills does Vitruvius expect an architect to possess? • Does Vitruvius expect perfection in each?
The Education of the Architect • Education – Treatises • Drawing – Readily make sketches • Geometry – Teaches the use of the rule and compasses • Optics – The light in buildings can be drawn and fixed to the quarters of the sky • Arithmetic – Calculations, measurements and symmetry • History – Underlying ideas that an architect should be able to explain • Philosophy – Honesty and careful knowledge • Music – Tuning as a form of dynamic measurement and acoustics • Medicine – The impacts of climate and site conditions on the human being The concept of a liberal education is founded on Vitruvius’ concept of the education of an architect.
The Fundamental Principles of Architecture Arrangement • Order – Compositional unity = “modules”= identity or a family of forms and “adjustments”= transitions • Invention – Interest = “the solving of intricate problems … by means of brilliancy and versatility” Eurythmy • “Corresponding symmetries” = proportion Symmetry • The relationship of the parts to the whole Propriety • Constructed of approved principles and from usage Economy • Proper management of materials and site as well as appropriate form
The Departments of Architecture Two Typologies • Works of general use in public places • Structures for private individuals The works of architecture are to be built with due reference to: • “Durability” - Firmness • “Convenience” - Commodity • “Beauty” - Delight
The Site of the City • “High”, and in a climate “neither hot nor cold , but temperate” • Oriented in relation to the solar exposure to address “variations in heat and the subsequent cooling off” • “Healthfulness” • “From food and water, then, we may learn whether sites are naturally unhealthy or healthy.” Insure on the principles of healthfulness. Select a site that can supply plenty of food stuffs to maintain the community. Provide good roads or convenient rivers or seaports for easy transport.
The Directions of the Streets; With Remarks on the Winds andThe Sites for Public Buildings • Streets and alleys should be arranged “with regard to climatic conditions.” • Temples, the forum, and all other public space should be arranged for convenience and utility. Temples for the gods should be at the very highest point commanding a view of the greater part of the city.
