TOA

Theory of Architecture
EXAM SUBJECT WEIGHTS
▪ 30%: History or architecture, theory of architecture;
principles of planning; architectural practice
▪ 30%: Structural design; building materials and
construction; utilities
▪ 40%: Architectural design and site planning
SCOPE OF TOA
▪ Module 1: Introduction to Theory and Architecture
▪ Module 2: Elements of Architecture and Principles of
Design
▪ Module 3: Design Perception
▪ Module 4: Tropical Architecture
▪ Module 5: Masters of Architecture
MODULE 1
Introduction to Theory and Architecture
OVERVIEW OF THE MODULE
▪ Module 1: Introduction to Theory and Architecture
▪ Part 1.1: Definition of theory and architecture
▪ Part 1.2: Architectural system and orders
▪ Part 1.3: Processes in architectural design
PART 1.1
Definition of Theory and Architecture
What is
theory?
Theory
Abstract thought or speculation resulting in a system
of assumption or principles used in analyzing, explaining,
or predicting phenomena, and proposed or followed as a
basis of action.
TYPES OF THEORY
▪ Descriptive: simply explains events or phenomena.
▪ Prescriptive: prescribes guidelines.
What is
architecture?
Architecture
The art and science of designing and constructing
buildings.
Ar
t conscious use of skill, craft, and creative
The
imagination in the production of what is beautiful,
appealing, or of more than ordinary significance.
Science
A branch of knowledge dealing with a body of facts or
truths obtained by direct observation, experimental
investigation, and methodical study, systematically
arranged and showing the operation of general laws.
PART 1.2
Architectural Systems and Orders
Architectural
systems
Architectural
systems ▪ Organizational pattern,
relationships, hierarchy
The architecture of ▪ Qualities of shape, color,
space, structure, and
texture, scale, proportion
enclosure ▪ Qualities of surfaces,
edges, and openings
Architectural
systems ▪ Approach and entry
▪ Path configuration
Experienced through
and access
movement in space and ▪ Sequence of spaces
time ▪ Light, view, touch,
hearing, and smell
Architectural systems
Achieved by means ▪ Structure and enclosure
of technology ▪ Environmental protection and
comfort
▪ Health, safety, and welfare
▪ Durability
Architectural Systems
Accommodating a program ▪ User requirements, needs,
aspirations
▪ Socio-cultural factors
▪ Economic factors
▪ Legal restraints
▪ Historical tradition and
precedents
Architectural Systems
Compatible with its context
▪ Site and environment
▪ Climate: sun, wind,
temperature, and
precipitation
▪ Geography: soils,
topography,
vegetation, and water
▪ Sensory and cultural
characteristics of the
place
VILLA SAVOYE
Poissy, east of Paris. Le Corbusier.

This graphic analysis will illustrate the way

architecture embodies the harmonious
integration of interacting and interrelated
parts into a complex and unified whole.
Spatial
System
The three-dimensional integration of
program elements and spaces
accommodates the multiple functions
and relationships of a house.
Structural
System
A grid of columns support horizontal
beams and slabs.
The cantilever acknowledges the
direction of approach along the
longitudinal axis.
Enclosure
System
Four exterior wall planes define a
rectangular volume that contains the
program elements and spaces.
Circulation
System
The stair and ramp penetrate and link the
three levels, and heighten the viewer’s
perception of forms in space and light.
The curved form of the entrance foyer
reflects the movement of the automobile.
Context
A simple exterior form wraps around a
complex interior organization of forms
and spaces.
Elevating the main floor provides a better
view and avoids the humidity of the ground.
A garden terrace distributes sunlight to
the spaces gathered around it.
Architectural
orders
Architectural Orders
Physical ▪ Solids and voids ▪ Space
▪ Interior and exterior ▪ Structure
▪ Enclosure
▪ Machines
Architectural Orders
Perceptua Sensory perception ▪ Approach and
l and recognition of Departure
the physical ▪ Entry and Egress
elements by ▪ Movement through
experiencing them the order of spaces
sequentially in time ▪ Functioning of and
activities within
spaces
▪ Qualities of light,
color, texture, view,
and sound.
Architectural Orders
Conceptua Comprehension of ▪ Images
l the ordered and ▪ Patterns
disordered ▪ Signs
relationships among a ▪ Symbols
building’s elements ▪ Context
and systems and
responding to the
meanings they evoke.
PART 1.3
Processes in Architectural Design
Design process
A purposeful activity aimed at devising a plan for
changing an existing situation into a future preferred
state.
Design phases
1. Initiation
2. Preparation
3. Synthesis
4. Evaluation
5. Action
6. Reevaluation
Initiation
Identifying a problem and its social, economic, and
physical context.
Preparation
Collecting and analyzing relevant information and
establishing goals and criteria for an acceptable
solution.
Synthesis
Discovering constraints and opportunities, and
hypothesizing possible alternative solutions.
Evaluation
Simulating, testing, and modifying acceptable
alternatives according to specified goals and criteria.
Action
Selecting and implementing the most suitable
solution.
Reevaluation
Assessing how well an implemented solution in use
satisfies the specified goals and criteria.
End of Module
1