FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, OWERRI

PMB 1526, IMO STATE

SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (SOES)

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE

SUBMITTED BY
NWAMBEKE CHUKWUEBUKA SIMEON
20221329954
ARCHITECTURE

COURSE CODE: ARC231

9TH. AUGUST, 2024.

MENTOR
ARC. DR. STEVE NWANKWO
TABLE OF CONTENT

WHAT IS ARCHITECTURE
DEFINITION OF ARCHITECTURE BY NOTABLE ARCHITECT
TYPES OF ARCHITECTURE
TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Feature
• Importance
• Examples.
VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Characteristics
• Importance
• Examples.
UTILITARIAN ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Characteristics
• Examples.
MONUMENTAL ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Characteristics
• Purposes
• Examples
SPIRITUAL ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Characteristics
• Goal
• Examples
CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Characteristics
• Features
• Examples
MODERN ARCHITECTURE
• Meaning
• Emphasis
• Notable modern Architect
• Examples

REFERENCECS.
 INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE
WHAT IS ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE: Is the art and science of designing and building structures,
spaces, and environments that are functional, aesthetically pleasing and safe. It
involves the creation of physical environments that serve various purposes, such
as;
• Habitats (homes, buildings)
• Public spaces (parks, plazas)
• Infrastructure (bridges, roads)
• Buildings (offices, schools, hospitals)

DEFINITION OF ARCHITECTURE BY THE NOTABLE

ARCHITECTURE

• “Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent of terms

assembled in the light.” — Le Corbusier

• “Architecture is the well of an epoch translated into space.” — Mies Van

Der Rohe

• “Architecture is a visual art, and the buildings speak for themselves.”

— Julia Morgan

• “Architecture is the art of creating a space that is both functional and

beautiful.” — Frank Lloyd Wright

• “Architecture is not just about building buildings. Its about creating a

sense of community and a sense of place.” — Denise Scott Brown

• “Architecture is a bridge between the physical and the spiritual.” — I.M.

Pei

These definitions showcase the diverse perspectives and philosophies of

renowned architects, highlighting the creative functional and cultural aspect of
architecture.
 TYPES OF ARCHITECTURE

1. Traditional architecture
2. Vernacular architecture
3. Utilitarian architecture
4. Spiritual architecture
5. Contemporary architecture
6. Modern architecture

1. TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE: This refers to building designs

and styles that are rooted in the past, often drawing inspiration from
historical periods, cultural heritage, and local vernacular traditions. It
encompasses various styles such as:
• Classical architecture (Greek, Roman, Renaissance)
• Vernacular architecture (regional, folk and indigenous styles)
• Historical revival styles (Gothic revival, Art deco etc.)
• Cultural and religious styles (Islamic, Chinese, Japanese etc.)

Traditional architecture often features:

• Use of natural material (stone, wood, brick)

• Ornate details and ornamentation
• Symmetry and proportion
• Connection to local climate and environment
• Craftsmanship and handmade elements

It is important to note that traditional architecture is not the same as

traditionalist architecture, which is a more recent movement that emerged
in the 20th century as a response to modernism.

IMPORTANCE OF TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE

• Cultural significance
• Aesthetic appeal
• Sustainability
• Craftsmanship
• Community connection
• Historical record
• Educational value
 • Tourism and Economic benefits
• Sense of place
• Preservation of intangible hostage

EXAMPLES

• CHINESE:
o The forbidden city (Beijing)
o The Temple of Heaven (Beijing)
o Pagodas (e.g. The White Pagoda in Beijing)
o Temples (e.g. Fushimi Inan Taisha in Kyoto)

• JAPANESE:
o Shrines (e.g. Meiji Shrine in Tokyo)
o Ryokans (Traditional inns)

• INDIA:
o Taj Mahal (Agra)
o Red Fort (Agra)
o Hindu temples (e.g. Kailasa Temple in Ellora caves)

• ISLAMIC:
o Mosques (e.g. Blue Mosque in Istanbul)
o Madrasas (e.g. Al-Ashar University in Cairo)

• EUROPEAN:
o Gothic cathedrals (e.g. Notre-Dame in Paris)
o Renaissance Palaces (e.g. Florence’s Pitti palace)
o Medieval castles (e.g. Windsor Castle in England)

• AFRICAN:
o Mud huts (e.g. In Dogon County, Mali)
o Adobe architecture (e.g. in Marrakech, Morocco)
o Pyramids (e.g. in Giza, Egypt)

• SOUTHEAST ASIAN:
o Balinese temples (e.g. Pura Tanat Lot in Bali)
o Thai temples (e.g. Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok)
o Filipino Bahay na Bato (Stone houses)
• LATIN AMERICAN:
o Colonial cities (e.g. Cartegena, Colombia)
o Mission Churches (e.g. in California, USA)
o Mayan and Aztec ruins (e.g. Chichen Itza, Mexico)

These examples showcase the diversity and richness of traditional

architecture worldwide, reflecting local materials, climates and cultural
heritage.

2. VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE: This refers to the traditional and

indigenous building styles and designs that are specific to a particular
region, culture or community. It is characterized by:
• Use of local materials and resources
• Reflection of local climate, geography and environmental
conditions
• Emphasis on functional simplicity and practicality

IMPORTANCE

• Cultural significance
• Sustainability
• Community identity
• Resilience
• Local material
• Historical preservation
• Inspiration for modern design

By embracing vernacular architecture, we can promote cultural

preservation, sustainability and community development which is also
learning from the wisdom of our ancestors

EXAMPLES

Here are some examples of vernacular architecture from around the

world:

• Adobe Haciendas (Mexico and Southwest USA): Earth-built

houses with thick walls, small windows, and shady patios,
designed for hot desert climates.
 • Bamboo houses (Southeast Asia): Lightweight flexible structures
built with sustainable bamboo, suitable for tropical regions, prone
to earthquakes and typhoons.
• Cob cottages (England and Ireland): Hand-sculpted houses made
clay, sand and straw, often featuring curved walls and thatched
roofs.
• Dobe houses (Noth Africa and Middle East): Mud-brick buildings
with thick walls, small windows, and dome roofs. Designed for hot
desert climates.
• Geodesic Domes (Inuit and Native America): Portable dome-
shaped structures made from animal hides or wood, for nomadic
cultures in harsh climates.
• Grass Huts: (Africa Savannah): Lightweight, thatched structures
built with local grasses and branches providing shade and
protecting from the element.
• Igbos (Inuit): Snow houses built from blocks of snow and ice,
providing insulation and protection in artic environment.
• Mud Hut Villages (West Africa): Compacts, earth-built houses,
with thatched roots, often arranged around a central courtyard.
• Rammed Earth Houses (China and Africa): Durable, earth-built
structures with curved roots made from compacted soil and gravel,
often featuring intricate designs.

These examples illustrate the diversity and ingenuity of vernacular

architecture, which has evolved over time to respond to local needs,
climates and cultural traditions.

3. UTILITARIAN ARCHITECTURE: This refers to building designed

primarily for functional purposes, prioritizing practicality and efficiency
over aesthetic considerations. The term “utilitarian” comes from the
ethical theory of utilitarianism, which means or aims to maximize overall
utility or usefulness.

CHARACTERISTICS OF UTILITARIAN ARCHITECTURE

• Functionality
• Simple form
• Cost-effectiveness
 • Efficiency
• Practicality

EXAMPLES

• Industrial buildings (Factories, warehouses)

• Office buildings (e.g. international style)
• Government buildings (e.g. Municipal offices_
• Institutional building (e.g. Hospital Schools)
• Infrastructure projects (e.g. Bridges, Highways)

While utilitarian architecture prioritizes function over from, it has also

influenced modern architectural movements, such as Brutalism and
Deconstructivism, which emphasises raw functionality and minimalism.

Some notable examples of utilitarian architecture include:

• The Banham Building (Dessan, Germany)

• The United Nations Headquarters (New York City, USA)
• The FBI Academy (Quantico, Virginia, USA)
• The Pompidou Centre (Paris, France)
• The National Grid Building (London, UK)

These buildings demonstrate how utilitarian architecture can be both

functional and usually striking serving as a testament of the power of
practical design.

4. MONUMENTAL ARCHITECTURE: This refers to building designs

that are grand, imposing, and awe-inspiring. Often serving as symbols of
power, wealth, and prestige. These structures are intended to make a bold
statement, evoke emotions, and have a lasting impression.

CHARACTERISTICS

• Large scale and grandeur.

• Imposing facades and materials entranced.
• Use of high-quality, durable materials (stone, marble, bronze)
• Ornate details and decorations (carvings, sculptures, frescoes)
• Classical or historicist styles (inspired by ancient cultures)
• Axial symmetry and grand visits.
 Monumental architecture is often associated with:

• Government buildings (capitals, palaces)

• Religious buildings (cathedrals, temples)
• Memorials and monuments (obelisks, arches)
• Cultural institutions (museums, opera houses)
• National landmarks and icons (Eiffel tower, Taj Mahal)

The purposes of monumental architecture include:

• Representing a nations or institutions power and prestige

• Honouring historical events or figures
• Creating a sense of national identity and pride
• Inspiring awe and admiration
• Serving as a cultural symbol or icon

EXAMPLES

• The White House in Washington D.C.

• The Taj Mahal in Agra, India
• The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt
• The Colosseum in Rome
• The Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.

5. SPIRITUAL ARCHITECTURE: Refers to buildings and spaces

designed to foster a sense of connection to something greater than
oneself, often transcending material boundaries. These structures aim to
evoke growth and may be associated with various religious, philosophical
or cultural beliefs.

CHARACTERISTICS

• Sacred or symbolic geometry

• Use of natural light and symbolism
• Incorporation of art and symbolism
• Incorporation of natural elements (water, fire, earth)
• Minimalism and simplicity
• Design emphasis on introspection and contemplation
• Connection to nature and the environment
 Spiritual architecture encompasses various types of buildings including:

• Religious buildings (churches, mosques, synagogues, temples)

• Sacred monuments (pyramids, stupas, dolmens)
• Meditation and yoga centres
• Retreat centres and monasteries
• Sacred landscapes and gardens
• Labyrinths and maze structures
• Ancient megalithic sites (Stonehenge, Machu Picchu)

GOAL OF SPIRITUAL ARCHITECTURE

• Creating a sense of connection to the divine or universe

• Fostering spiritual growth and self-reflection
• Providing a peaceful and contemplative environment
• Honouring sacred traditions and beliefs
• Inspiring a sense of wonder and awe

EXAMPLES

• The Taj Mahal in Agra, India

• The Temple of the Inscriptions in Palenque, Mexico
• The Chartres Cathedral in France
• The Borobudur Temple in Indonesia
• The Glastonbury Abbey in England

6. COMTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE: Refer to the current

architectural style and trends of the 21st century. It is characterised by:

• Experimentation with new materials and technologies

• Emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency
• Innovative and unconventional forms and shapes
• Use of glass, steel and concrete
• Minimalism and simplicity
• Integration with nature and the environment
• Focus on functionality and use experience
• Incorporation of digital technology and smart building design
• Globalization and cultural exchange influencing design
 NOTABLE FEATURES

• Green roots and walls

• Large windows and natural light
• Open floor plans and flexible spaces
• Crucial and irregular shapes
• Use of recycles and sustainable materials
• Integration with public art and installations
• Adaptive reuse of historic buildings
• Accessibility and universal design resistance
• Resilience and disaster resistance
• Virtual and augmented reality design tools

EXAMPLES

• The Amazon Shores in Seattle, Washington

• The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain
• The Lotus Temple in Neon Delhi, India
• The One World Trade Centre in New York City
• The Museo Soumaya in Mexico City
• The National Museum of Africa
• The Guangzhou Opera House in China

7. MODERN ARCHITECTURE: Refers to the architecture style that

emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a focus
on functionality, simplicity and the use of industrial materials and
technologies of rejected traditional and ornate styles, instead
emphasizing:

• Clean lines and minimal ornamentation

• Open floor plans and flexible spaces
• Large windows and natural light
• Use of the concrete, steel and glass
• Functionality and purposefulness
• Simplicity and minimalism
• Innovative use of materials and technologies
• Emphasis on comfort and well-being
Modern architecture was influenced by various movements including:

• Art Nouveau
• Bauhaus
• International style
• De Stijl
• Constructivism

NOTABLE MODERN ARCHITECTS

• Frank Lloyd Wright

• Le Corbusier
• Walter Gropius
• Ludwig Mies Van Der Role
• Marcel Breuer
• Eero Saarinen
• Alvar Aalto
• Richard Neutra

EXAMPLES OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE

• The Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois

• The Guggenheim Museum in New York City
• The United Nation Headquarters in New York City
• The Barcelona Pavilion in Spain
• The Villa Savoye in France
• The Bauhaus building in Dessan, Germany
• The Robie House in Chicago, Illinois
• The Falling Water House in Pennsylvania

Modern architecture has had a profound influence on contemporary

architecture and continues to shapes the built environment today.
REFERENCES
• https://britannica.com/topic/architecture
• https://archdaily.com/773971/architecture-is-121-definitions-of-architecture
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architecture
• https://www.immerse.education/study-tips/7-different-types-of-architecture/