diagrams

so far we have stressed to importance of diagrams and their role in the design process. a diagram is not a one-to-one representation of a reality (or your design), but an abstraction that reveals what is not easily perceived by the eye. concepts and non-physical elements of your design can be represented on diagrams using different ways of abstraction and mapping. design diagrams will accompany your physical models of your design throughout the year, and you will explore different mediums and methods to convey your design ideas in such abstractions.

you need to read the article about diagrams by b. v. berkel and c. bos until thursday (you can download them here or find the print in the copier). we will further discuss this on thursday. 

after the first crit session

today we had our first design exercises, where you were given a very simple design problem that involves a limited set of elements and several constraints. in the studio critique that follows, we discussed concepts such as three-dimensionality and what qualifies as three-dimensional in design (the fact that we are dealing with volumetric objects does not automatically make your design 3-dimensional). we talked about the "invisible" elements of design such as the relationships between elements and the voids that are generated within your design. design diagrams are your medium to represent and communicate such abstract concepts. also several principles of organization such as repetition and variation, singular and grouped elements, complexity, balance and symmetry were discussed. we introduced the concept of tectonics. you should research on that tectonics means and how it is related to design until the next class.

on monday, we will start with your design work. please do not forget your diagrams and printed photos of your design.

 

welcome to arch 101

welcome to the first year design studio of the department of architecture at METU. this studio will establish the basic skills of design thinking and exploration, and introduce you to the various concepts and principles of design. during the semester, a number of design exercises will be given in successive continuity. you will learn and explore concepts not prescriptively but through your own experience. therefore you are expected to attend all classes and actively participate in discussions and critiques.

on thursday, we will start with our first design assignment.
until then, please take a look at the course syllabus