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As you learned, many aspects of life would be greatly different had it not been for the advancements of engineers and their combination of artistic skills. For the following activity, analyze the changes in artistic styles and engineering over the course of time. In order to examine the use of art and engineering, you will need to examine the following areas in each of the designs:

What types of materials were used in the construction of the house?
How does the design of the house reflect the time period it was created in?
What technology is obvious in the house design? (For example, how was heating and cooling dealt with? How was lighting handled?)
What are the similarities between the two designs?
What are the aesthetic qualities of the designs?
The first of the following two buildings is made of logs, wood, and stone available in the area. The second is made of glass and wood that could have been shipped. The first design is rustic and made for its utilitarian purpose. The second design is sleek and interesting to reflect the technology available at the time. The first house does not have glass windows because they were not available, and relies on open doors to keep it cool and a fireplace to keep it warm. Light is provided by open doors and windows and candles. The second house relies on electric light and central air and heat. They are similar in that they are both structures that provide shelter for the individuals who live there. The first building is simple and functional. The second building is refined and interesting.

A simple log cabin sits in a grassy clearing in a forest.

A white house with two floors has a contemporary architectural design.

Now you will research two buildings that you find to have an interesting design. These can be office buildings, homes, football stadiums, or any structure that you are interested in, but you will need to pick two that are the same type of building. Address the five questions about the previous houses. Use the Comparison worksheet to write a brief summary of the buildings you chose, and outline the similarities and differences between the two designs. In the Evaluate section of this lesson, you will post your worksheet to the discussion board and respond to the postings of two other students.

1 answer

Building Comparison Worksheet

Selected Buildings:

  1. Building A: The Fallingwater House (Pennsylvania, USA)

    • Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s
    • Made primarily of reinforced concrete, stone, and glass

  2. Building B: The Casa Batlló (Barcelona, Spain)

    • Designed by Antoni Gaudí in the early 1900s
    • Constructed using a combination of stone, ceramic tiles, and glass

Analysis

1. What types of materials were used in the construction of the house?

  • Building A (Fallingwater):

    • Materials: Reinforced concrete, local stone, glass
    • Characteristics: The use of cantilevered concrete and natural stone creates a seamless integration with the surrounding nature.

  • Building B (Casa Batlló):

    • Materials: Stone, ceramic tiles, and glass
    • Characteristics: The combination of colorful ceramic tiles, undulating stone, and stained glass adds a whimsical element to the structure.

2. How does the design of the house reflect the time period it was created in?

  • Building A:

    • The 1930s was marked by the Prairie School movement and the beginning of modern architecture. Fallingwater reflects these ideals through its horizontal lines, organic architecture, and integration with its environment.

  • Building B:

    • Created during the Catalan Modernisme period, Casa Batlló showcases Gaudí's approach to form and function. The early 1900s was a time of experimentation and innovation, which is evident in the building's fluid forms and colorful finishes.

3. What technology is obvious in the house design?

  • Building A:

    • Heating and Cooling: The house features open spaces and natural ventilation. The large overhangs provide shade while the natural stone keeps the interior cool. The fireplace serves as a central heating feature.
    • Lighting: Abundant natural light floods the space through large windows and glass doors, integrating the indoors with the outdoors.

  • Building B:

    • Heating and Cooling: Designed to maximize natural light and airflow, the structure relies on thermal mass from the stone materials and strategic window placement.
    • Lighting: Electric light fixtures complement the natural light, with stained glass elements adding colored light effects.

4. What are the similarities between the two designs?

  • Both buildings emphasize harmonious integration with their surroundings, showcasing the relationship between structure, light, and environment.
  • Each uses materials native to the region (stone, in particular) and incorporates features that enhance natural light and ventilation.
  • Both designs prioritize the human experience, focusing on how occupants interact with the space.

5. What are the aesthetic qualities of the designs?

  • Building A:

    • Aesthetic qualities include natural integration, organic forms, and a raw, earthy feel. The design evokes tranquility and inspires a connection with nature.

  • Building B:

    • Aesthetically striking, Casa Batlló features vibrant colors, flowing lines, and intricate details, conveying a sense of whimsy and creativity. The design feels alive, almost like a living organism.

Summary

Both Fallingwater and Casa Batlló highlight the evolution of architectural design through their materials and construction techniques, while also reflecting the cultural and historical contexts of their time. While Fallingwater demonstrates the principles of modern architecture with its functional and natural forms, Casa Batlló showcases the artistic expression and craftsmanship of the early 20th-century modernisme movement. Despite their different styles and materials, both buildings serve as exemplary models of art and engineering, where form follows function in unique and interesting ways.

Key Differences:

  • Fallingwater is more functional and geometric, while Casa Batlló is fluid and ornamental.
  • The construction materials reflect different technological advancements and aesthetics from their respective eras.
  • The emotional impact varies; Fallingwater feels serene and tranquil whereas Casa Batlló is playful and dynamic.

Key Similarities:

  • Integration with nature and environment.
  • Maximization of natural light and ventilation.
  • Both structures encourage a specific experience for their inhabitants and visitors.

Next Steps:

  • Share this worksheet on the discussion board and respond to peers' postings regarding their chosen buildings.