DSGN 242: Project 1 – Space, Scale + Light

0 Commentsby   |  08.26.11  |  Assignments, DSGN 242

Overview

Space constantly encompasses our being. Through the volume of space, we move, see forms, hear sounds, feel breezes, smell the fragrances of a flower garden in bloom. It is a natural substance like wood or stone. yet it is an inherently formless vapor. Its visual form, its dimensions and scale, the quality of its light – all of these qualities depend on our perception of the spatial boundaries defined by elements of form. – Francis Ching “Architecture: Form, Space and Order”

The primary elements of form are:

  • Point – indicates a position in space
  • Line – a point extended that has length, direction and position
  • Plane – a lined extended that has length, width, shape, surface, orientation and position
  • Volume – a plane extended that has length, width, depth, form, space, surface, orientation and position

Objectives

  • Explore the creation of space using the primary elements of form
  • Understand the effect scale has on the perception of space
  • Examine the quality of light and its use as a “material”
  • Develop design process
  • Develop technical skills including model-building, sketching and hand drafting
  • Introduce page layout design elements (including: grid/organization systems, orientation, visual unity and balance, information sequence and hierarchy)
  • Utilize digital tools for final composition

Assignment

Part 1: Physical Models

In order to focus on the creation of physical space and study of solid + void, create three separate physical models that combine the following elements to form spaces:

  1. Planar elements (membranes) – curved and straight
  2. Planar and linear elements (rod, bar, cable, etc.)
  3. Planar and volumetric elements (cube, cylinder, sphere, etc.)

The models must meet the following requirements:

  • Not to exceed 4″w x 6.5″d x 4″h.
  • Mount models on a rectangular base that measures 6″ x 8.5″ (should be approved material – see below)
  • Approved materials: cardboard, chipboard, matboard or foam core – wire, dowels or string can be used for linear elements
  • One or two materials p/model maximum

Part 2: Scale + Light

Scale completes the sense of space by providing a familiar reference and context, the human body. Adding scale figures to a model renders it less abstract and more concrete. Light serves as an additional material that conveys a sense of space – space that is transformed through the passage of time.

  1. Create three scale figures @ different sizes – 1/8″, 1/4″, and 1/2″ (example here)
  2. Place the figures (one size at a time) in each model and observe the effect each has on the perception of space
  3. Cast light on the models from a variety of vantage points. Natural light (sunlight) is the preferred source, but the use of artificial light is acceptable as well. Observe how light changes the nature of the space and becomes its own material.
  4. Choose one model and one scale figure you feel best relate to one another

Part 3: Representation

Space has been created, scale and light have been examined – now the work needs to be documented and re-presented through drawings and photographs.

  • Photograph the nature of the space as the perspective and light changes.* Ensure the scale figure is visible in each photograph.
  • Using the photographs as reference and/or underlays, freehand sketch three perspectives of the space. Let the drawing emote the quality of the space through the use of light, shadow, line quality, texture, scale, etc.
  • Draft two sections (one in each direction) of the model @ actual size
  • Incorporate drawings, photographs and appropriate labels into an 18″ x 24″ presentation sheet

*In order to reduce distractions, keep the background as neutral as possible. Use a solid backdrop, such as a large piece of paper, sheet, foam core, etc. to eliminate background “noise.”

Process:

  • Inspiration: Find at least two images of spaces/forms p/model type as inspiration (six total)
  • Models: Three process (one will be the final)
  • Sketches: 10 min. p/model type (30 total)
  • Photographs: Eight of the final model

Final Deliverables

The final composition will be a single 18″ x 24″ vellum sheet, which includes the following:

  • Three perspective sketches w/scale figures
  • 2 section drawings w/labels and graphic scale (use architectural lettering)
  • Project name (Space, Scale + Light), student name, class and semester (use architectural lettering)

Process Documentation:

  • Three physical models w/scale figure
  • Inspiration images – post to the Class Discussion Blog (send an e-mail to: 1210_DSGN24201@blogs.acu.edu)
  • Photocopies of sketches*
  • Photographs – upload to the class dropbox on myACU. Name each file as follows: first initial.last name_project 1-photo1.jpg (ex: b.young_project 1-photo 1.jpg)
* Place in report binder or folder w/your name on it

Schedule + Deadline

  • Mon., Aug 29: Introduce project
  • Wed., Aug 30: Inspiration examples due
  • Fri., Sept 2: All sketches due @ beginning of class, work on models
  • Mon., Sept 5: Work on models
  • Wed., Sept 7: Models due, group critiques @ beginning of class, work on drawings
  • Fri., Sept 9: Work on drawings
  • Mon., Sept 12 & Wed., Sept 14: Service Project (tentative)
  • Fri., Sept 16: Project due @ beginning of class – Final Critique

Grading Criteria

Project = 15% of final course grade

Link to Grading Criteria

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