De La Salle University- Dasmariñas

Dasmariñas City, Cavite

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURE AND TECHNOLOGY
ARCHITECTURE DEPARTMENT

ARCH124- THEORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

Patricia R. Sierra ARC 53

Task#1: Submit a Technical Essay discussing his/her success in applying the learnings in
Theory Of Architectural Design 2 to Architectural Design 2.

Theory of Architecture 2 discusses the multiple architects and architectural styles

that have molded and shaped the architecture that we know today. So far, the lessons
have discussed multiple styles such as Art Deco, Art Noveau, Cubism, etc. and it’s own
distinctions, characteristics and how it has reflected the society and time where it
emerged. It just shows how architecture is ever changing, and it can never be truly defined
by just one style.

Although, unlike my classmates, I am already taking Design 8, I too have applied the
lessons taught to me in Theory of Architecture 2, knowingly and unknowingly.

The lessons of Theory Of Architecture 2 heavily centers around the architectural artistic
movements, which for me, has heavily inspired a lot of artists and (aspiring) architects of
our time. These artistic movements had heavily influenced me as well, and one of the said
movements was the Art Noveau movement of the late
19th to early 20th century. The reason for this was it’s
heavily stylized approach to art, which did not only reflect
on architecture itself, but also was seen in every day
décor, furnishings and even paintings. Because of this, I
have tried to emulate the style not only in it’s form or
exterior façade, but also with the interiors, which can be
seen on my perspectives.
Figure 1: Art Noveau has heavily inspired me, and most of my
plates can be seen with colorful facades and interiors, full of
eccentric details and ornaments
Although heavily detailed, I did enjoy how it was opposed to the more classical style that
preceded it. Also, comparing it to the more stiff Brutalism and sleek Cubism, It’s organic
look and affinity for nature is also the reason that some of my the esquisse outputs in my
previous Design classes have heavily leaned on to the Art Noveau Style.

Another style that influenced my architectural plates is deconstructivism.

A movement of postmodern architecture, it showcases the disruption of movement,
something that is characterized by its absence of harmony or symmetry. One way to put it
is, this particular style is a kind of “controlled chaos”. Like Art Noveau, it subverts the idea
of what architecture is and what it should be. These styled are often the styles that are
considered non-conforming, basing it in an already pre existing standard.

Figure 2:

Deconstructivist
Architecture, such as
the photos seen on the
left, have been an
inspiration to my
architectural plates,
mostly because of
what it represents, of
the possibilities of
design and the
exploration of space,
form and aesthetic.

It does not conform to

the “traditional”
standards of wshat a
building is perceived
to be, and thus, have
more room for
creative freedom.

I also incorporated the “modernism” aspects of deconstructivism, such as experimenting

with the geometry of the form, and applying the structural, functional and aesthetic
considerations onto it. This style has also encouraged me to be more creative in terms of
the application and use of materials in each project, and that it should not only be used for
the mere purpose of “looking beautiful”.

In summary, Art Noveau and the Deconstructivist style has heavily influenced the way I
approach architecture and my design process. But this is not to disregard the other art
movements that have emerged through time and their significance and relevance in
modern day architecture.

Organic Architecture for instance, promotes harmony between human habitation and the
natural environment. Because of the unfolding of more news about Global Warming and
movements such as #ClimateStrike, organic architecture and it’s principles has become
increasingly relevant in this day and age. As aspiring architects, these principles also
should ought to be applied more in modern context, since this not only aims to blend
seamlessly with nature, it also aims to become more adaptable, sustainable and satisfy the
social, physical and spiritual needs of the user.The Brutalism style, although viewed as
inhumane and cold, also showcases the importance of functionality and simplicity in
structures as well as visual coherence and clear exhibition of its use.

Overall, the transformation of architecture and its varying visual languages has shown the
values that were given importance during that era. Though, these art movements does not
come with its own set of faults, it is important to remember the characteristics and ideals
it tried to uphold. Surely, we can learn a lot from it, I know I have.