The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines architecture as the art or practice of designing and building structures, especially habitable ones. From the definition, it would be right to infer that the design—or architecture—of spaces directly impacts the quality of lives humans tend to live. Architecture goes beyond constructing buildings; it moulds the environment, influences behaviours, and reflects our mores, cultural values, and norms. Wanting to be in charge of the design of livable spaces, coupled with the opportunities to experience and explore diverse artistic expressions, students often carry grand aspirations towards the pursuit of architectural education. While such dreams are valid, the new students are faced with several nuances and complexities, or, to put it succinctly, they sooner than later get a ‘reality check.’
Brace for Impact
The first year of architecture is usually the hardest. This is often when the undoing happens. Students are bombarded with what seems like an unthinkable number of courses, assignments, and deadlines, and soon they realise that this journey to greatness is not for the faint-hearted. In solemnity or amidst the rush, if one pays attention enough, one would hear this thought floating above each and everyone’s head: Why did I think I could do this?
During the first year, students have their free-hand sketching skills refined. This enables them to develop the ability to accurately and quickly sketch and communicate conceptual designs. Students are also introduced to the structural concepts of buildings and their implications for architectural design. They are also taught perspective drawings that allow for the visualisation of their concepts in realistic ways and enable them to convey the spatial relationships between the different elements of their designs.
Architecture and Its Overall Impact on Lives
The role of building materials in sustainability and building for social change is equally highlighted. Students are taught about the various building materials, their properties, and use cases. They learn about the basic characteristics, such as durability, strength, and thermal conductivity; the life-cycle assessment of said materials; their potential for reuse; and their corresponding classifications and applications. They come to understand that the impact of the choice of building materials is both profound and multi-faceted in the lives of people. They are also taught about the elements and principles of design.
They also learn about anthropometrics and how it directly affects the design and functionality of spaces designed to accommodate humans. The psychology of space and colour is equally emphasised, thereby reiterating a well-known fact now that architects and their designs gravely improve or impair people’s quality of life. The subject of the history and theory of architecture is equally well addressed. In this course, students are exposed to background knowledge of the cultural and historical contexts of buildings, which in turn provides them with a deeper understanding and appreciation of architecture. They are able to experience and interrogate the influences of their predecessors in the field by gaining insights into the thought patterns and logic that have formed the design multiverse they have come to know.
Modern Tools for Modern Architecture
Students are also exposed to various software tools that are required in modern practice. Here, they learn that computer-aided design drawings (CAD) are necessary for communicating design intent to stakeholders, such as engineers, contractors, and regulatory authorities. Most importantly, they come to the understanding that these drawings need to be accurate and adhere to safety and functional requirements, as they directly impact the safety and habitability of the environment. Physical model-making is another skill that they acquire. They learn to refine their designs, not only in a visually appealing way but also functionally.
The End of the Beginning of Architecture
Apart from newfound technical skills, first-year students learn another equally, if not more important, life skill: teamwork. Students learn this essential soft skill by collaborating on projects, developing the ability to convey their ideas effectively to their audience, creative problem-solving, and time management.
At the end of the first year, students should have been able to gain mastery of the basics of free-hand sketching, physical and digital modelling, and the ability to communicate their ideas effectively. Learning about architectural history would have provided a framework for understanding the movement, progression, and the concepts of architecture that shape the built environment. This knowledge would enable them to understand the impact that their future designs can have on the lives of people.
The knowledge of the elements and principles of design would equip students to come up with spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and meaningful. The study of anthropometrics would enable them to create inclusive spaces that cater to the needs of their users regardless of age, shape, (dis)abilities, or size. The now-developed perspective skills would allow for effective communication between stakeholders, ensuring that their final products are aligned with their vision, which ultimately enhances the lives of the occupants. Their understanding of building materials and structures enables them to make informed design choices and ultimately prioritise the safety and interests of the inhabitants of the designed space.
When all has been taught, torn up, and redone, students will have understood the impact of architecture on people’s lives. They now know that it would take more than just wishful thinking or dreams of grand designs to be able to create transcendent architecture, for they would have witnessed first-hand the responsibilities and expectations of what it takes to become an architect, and for those who have seen Spider-Man, the phrase “with great power comes great responsibility” would have surely taken on a newer and deeper meaning.
Reference:
Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 2024. Definition of architecture. Available at: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/architecture (Accessed 21 May 2024).
