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The University of Michigan Student Union Building, 2004.
An analysis of the architecture of the University of Michigan Student Union Building.
2,215 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the architectural features of the building. It discusses why specific features may have been built in a certain way in order to suit the student population that uses the building. It looks at the history of the building, as well as its current status.
From the Paper
"This is perhaps best evidenced on the University of Michigan Campus, in the form of the Michigan Student Union. This building is of particular interest, not simply because it is so well trafficked by students of the university. It is also of interest because it aspires to do so much, namely to provide a common nutritional, recreational, and functional gathering place for all students."
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New Modern Architecture, 2004.
A thorough overview of the trends in new modern architecture and which schools these trends originated from.
6,722 words (approx. 26.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 153.95
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Abstract
To consider modern architecture, this paper considers the various steps that have occurred. It begins with a consideration of the Congres Internationaux d'Architecture Moderne (CIAM) architects and proceeds to Team X. This is followed by a look at New Brutalism and then leads to a look at the current state of architecture. This gives a view of the current state of architecture, as well as providing the context that allows the current state to be understood. From there, the paper looks ahead to the future of architecture and predicts what that future will look like, based on the trends that have been identified. The paper shows that architecture is ever-changing, while providing an overview of the changes that have taken place until now and the changes that can be expected to take place, leading to the future.
From the Paper
"Architecture will never achieve some perfect state where everyone accepts that the one best form has now been achieved. The reason for this is that what is considered best changes as people change. This aspect applies to architecture as much as it does to any other art form or any item produced in society. People in one generation may strive for a certain perfect form and they may even achieve it in their lifetime. However, even if they do, this form does not become the one perfect standard, never changing again. Instead, the next generation considers what has been created before and strives to achieve something. If architecture is considered as art, this is the same process that occurs with all other forms of art. For example, literature created centuries ago does not remain as the one perfect form for literature. Shakespeare?s work is still considered great, but the writers of today rarely create works similar to Shakespeare?s. Instead, they create works that reflect modern society, while possibly taking aspects of Shakespeare?s work and building on them. This creates a continual process of change, where one form grows into others. If architecture is considered as practical rather than artistic, it can be likened more to research-based developments. For example, the automobile was first developed in the early 20th century. Since that time, technical developments have seen it change considerably. These changes are also in response to changing society. For example, currently environmental issues are a social concern. For this reason, automobiles are beginning to develop with alternatives modes of fuel. Overall, this shows that architecture is like everything else in society, in that it will be constantly changing as society changes, while each generation will consider the works that have gone before it, assess them, make changes, and in doing so, continue the development of the field."
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French and Italian Rococo, 2004.
Examines the origins of the Rococo style in both France and Italy.
1,032 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper considers the origins of the 18th century Rococo style of art. It also considers the similarities and the differences in French and Italian Rococo styles, the changes that occurred as the style spread to Germany and Austria, and the end of the Rococo form of artwork.
From the Paper
"As is true of so much of artistic enterprise, Rococo art began as a reaction to what had come before it, and so it is impossible either to appreciate or to understand Rococo art without understanding at least in some measure the Baroque aesthetics that Rococo artists set themselves up against. While the Baroque covers a range of different sub-styles and competing schools, Baroque art (especially painting and sculpture) as well as architecture was distinguished by a general sense of vitality and an emphasis on creating the illusion of movement."
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The Influence of Japanese Art, 2004.
This paper discusses the influence on many aspects of Western art by Japanese art, called Japonisme, commencing from mid-19th century to today.
3,280 words (approx. 13.1 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 94.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that American Impressionist Mary Cassatt began using a Japanese motif in works such as ?The Fitting?, one of a series of ten color prints, which are considered among the landmarks of Japonisme. The author points out that, while most American architects in the early 1900s looked to European architects for ideas, Frank Lloyd Wright found Japanese design and art more inspiring. The paper concludes that now, in the 21st century, Japanese creativity has taken a new approach based on electronic and computerized technology advances combined with art, called animation, or anime in the Japanese language, which is an art form eagerly consumed by the market.
From the Paper
"Van Gogh wrote his sister how Buddhism was also impacting his life. He even shaved his head to look more like Japanese. He deeply studied the works ?not to simply comprehend Japan art by copying it, but to dig down to the very roots of Japanese culture to be able to generate original creative impulses of his own from the encounter.? American artist Frank Benson painted Impressionist images of table settings that mingled Japanese, Chinese, and American objects. Benson also applied Japanese technical considerations to his paintings. This interest is especially evident in a group of black-watercolor washes that suggest the swiftness and economy of Japanese ink painting."
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Classicism, 2004.
A paper that discusses how Classicism manifested itself in the 18th century.
679 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 24.95
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Abstract
This paper briefly describes the cultural style of classicism. It then looks at how this style is portrayed in music, architecture, and art.
From the Paper
"In order to determine the 18th century?s manifestation of Classicism, it is important to understand what the term means. Classicism, or Neo-Classicism is used to ?characterize the culture of 18th-century Europe, and contrasted with 19th-century Romanticism (unknown, Classicism).? In ?art, music, and literature, it is a style that emphasizes the qualities traditionally considered characteristic of ancient Greek and Roman art, that is, reason, balance, objectivity, restraint, and strict adherence to form (unknown, Classicism).? Classicism is ?characterizing art in which adherence to recognized aesthetic ideals is accorded greater importance that individuality of expression (sunsite.unc.edu/wm/paint/glo/romanticism).? "
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The Great Mosque of Samarra, 2002.
This paper describes the Great Mosque of Samara (in present-day Iraq) on the Tigris River, which is the largest mosque in the Islamic world.
1,080 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that despite the Koran's strictures against sumptuousness and grandeur, the mosques are built with opulence and splendor. The author points out that early Islamic art offers a striking contrast to Christian art and architecture by the avoidance of religious symbolism found in Christian churches and art. The paper relates an additional feature of the Great Mosque at Samarra: the ziyadas, an outer enclosure or extension common to early Islamic mosques which surrounds the structure on the north, east and west sides but not on the qiblah wall (the wall in the direction of Mecca which Muslims face in prayer).
From the Paper
"On the north side of the Great Mosque stands a single, large minaret, a lofty tower surrounded by one or more projecting balconies from which the summons to prayer is cried by the muezzin. Yet with this particular minaret, the builders decided to shape it in the form of a ziggurat, a stepped, truncated pyramid based on Assyrian architecture reminiscent of ancient Mesopotamia. But the minaret at Samarra was most probably inspired by a certain kind of spiral tower of unknown purpose found in Sassanid, a dynasty of the Persian kings of the third to the seventh centuries in present-day Iran."
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Gothic Churches, 2002.
An essay comparing two Gothic churches in Italy, the Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome and the Church of S. Maria del Fiore in Florence.
1,572 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper examines two particular Gothic churches ? Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome and the Church of S. Maria del Fiore in Florence. Each church is examined for the combination of specific historical forces and styles, the building materials and techniques available to those who constructed them. It also looks at emblems that were used as meaningful symbols and the ways in which Gothic churches connect people to the divine within the Catholic Church in a way that helped people to transcend their daily lives.
From the Paper
"The church of Santa Maria Maggiore is no exception, for it is combination of specific historical forces and styles, the building materials and techniques available to those who constructed it and emblems that have been used as meaningful symbols of the ways in which churches connect people to the divine within the Catholic Church, as Kulterman (p. 12) argues."
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Frank Lloyd Wright, 2002.
A biography of the life, work and style of the architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
1,492 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Frank Lloyd Wright, an American architect who is widely-regarded as one of the most influential figures on 20th century design. It looks at how his 70-year career ushered in several important social and cultural dimensions to the field of architecture. It examines the design philosophy, influences and major achievements of one of the towering and most controversial figures of American architecture.
Outline
Biography
Influences and Principles
Major Design Styles
Innovations and Contributions
From the Paper
"Like his professional life, Wright?s personal life was also fraught with conflict and controversy. Wright married his first wife Catherine in 1889, and they eventually had six children. However, echoing his father's actions, Wright left his family in 1909 for Mamah Cheney, a wife of one of his clients. Although still married to Catherine, he returned with Cheney to Wisconsin in 1911, where the couple built a home and took up residence. In 1914, however, a servant murdered Cheney, her two children and four other people before setting the house on fire (Constantino 12)."
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Design Process of a Forty-Five Foot Sailing Boat, 2002.
An explanation of the design process used for building a ship, focusing on the technological aspects used in the design.
6,140 words (approx. 24.6 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 144.95
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Abstract
This research paper investigates the development of sailing boat design and construction, providing a selective study of the history of sailing boats including their use, design and construction and evolution. The paper then offers an investigation of the development of computer technology for design purposes, which shows how the accessibility of computer hardware and the availability of software are major factors that enable their use as tools to aid the design process. Finally, a summary is provided as to when, where and how computer technology have been used in the design process of the case study and an evaluation of the previously discussed information regarding the application of computer technology in the design process. This research supports the theory that computers are an essential element to modern ship design.
From the Paper
"Boats are a tool that must be of use to human beings. Boats were first developed in response to certain social needs and as these needs changed so did boats, their design and usage. Boats are primarily for the purpose of transportation of people and goods, no matter what the final intent of the people, the role of the boat is always transportation. The following overview will examine how the use of ships has changed over time and how the design of ships have changed in reopens to changing needs. New technology has undoubtedly had an impact on the design of ships. It is the combination of these factors that have led to the advances in shipbuilding that embody the art as is today."
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Oxford and Cambridge Architecture, 2002.
A comparative analysis of the architecture of Oxford and Cambridge University.
1,267 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Oxford and Cambridge universities in the United Kingdom share many features, since Cambridge was built by students from Oxford. It considers the various prominent features of both universities in order to identify the similarities and differences. It also examines how both are great examples of different building styles over the centuries. It looks at how Oxford is the oldest university city in the UK, how it features wide streets and has more than 650 buildings listed for their historical or architectural merit. In contrast, Cambridge was not founded as a university city, but as a city of the Roman Empire, founded in 43AD by the Roman emperor Cantabrigensis. The first university was only built in 1134, although many of the fairly insignificant features of the city remained in place.
From the Paper
"Sir Christopher Wren was also involved in the building of the Sheldonian Theater. The classical theatre was Wren?s first large scale work. It opend in 1669, and was modelled on the roman theater of Marcellus. Robert Streeter painted the ceiling to give the impression of an open sky. The cuppola gives a view of the city?s spires. The theater is currently used for degree cermonies. Additionally, Encaenia, a ceremony taking place during the month of June, takes place here. During this ceremony the founders of the university are remembered, while famous and deserving people also receive honorary degrees. Concerts and lectures are also held here (Pictures of England, 2003)."
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Architecture in Savannah, Georgia, 2002.
This research paper explores the significance of architecture in the urban renewal and development of Savannah, Georgia. It also includes a historical overview of the city and how urban development came about.
3,983 words (approx. 15.9 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 108.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a historical analysis of the urban plan for Savannah, Georgia. The writer emphasizes the role that architecture played in the development of the master plan for the city. The discussion begins with a brief history of the city, and then focuses on the creations of the first city planner, George Oglethorpe. The research also discusses how the economy shaped the architectural design of the city. It reviews several different landmarks and explains why there construction influenced urban planning. Finally the writer discusses more recent urban renewal projects and reviews the impact that they may have on the historic district of the city.
From the Paper
"It was believed by the colonists that Georgia would prove to be a profitable colony because of the production of silk and fine wines. Eventually the colonists found that the most profitable area of the colony was at the port of Savannah. In time Savannah became an ideal place for the production of rice, cotton and forest products.
Eventually the city of Savannah was captured by the British in 1778 and it was held by the British until 1782. By 1860 Savannah had began to prosper economically from the production of cotton and was heavily dependent upon slavery. In 1864 Union troops entered the city threatening to destroy it. The troops in Savannah surrendered on Christmas Eve and General William Sherman offered Savannah as a Christmas Gift to President Lincoln. The telegraph that presented the gift read, ?I beg to present you as a Christmas Gift, the City of Savannah with 150 heavy guns and plenty of ammunition; and also about 25,000 bales of cotton.?(War and Occupation) Thought the city was not destroyed the remnants of war caused great turmoil to the economy of the city. However by the 1870?s the city was again benefiting from the production and export of cotton. (War and Occupation)"
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New World Trade Center Designs, 2002.
A look at the various architectural proposals for construction of a memorial site where the World Trade Center once stood.
1,940 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the finalist proposals for two plans, both of which intend to build the world's tallest buildings, on the World Trade Center site in New York. It also discusses the nine preliminary proposals in which several approaches were suggested to replace the 16-acre site in lower Manhattan, and all included memorials.
From the Paper
"The two firms behind the plans were Libeskind and the international THINK team, led by New York-based architects Rafael Vinoly and Frederic Schwartz. Libeskind's proposal features a 1,776-foot spire overlooking several smaller steel towers. The THINK team proposed two decorative steel towers, reaching 1,655 ft. Both included significant plans for a memorial. The winning design was announced in late February and Libeskind?s plan was the chosen project.
The selected plan for the World Trade Center site includes a museum at the epicenter of the site, as well as two large public spaces dubbed the Park of Heroes and the Wedge of Light, which would be built in such a way that the sun would shine down on them unblocked on the anniversaries of the attack. This is considered one of the most unique memorial proposals in history."
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Design-Build Project Delivery, 2002.
This paper discusses the design-build method of construction whereby a single company is in charge from the projects inception to its completion including planning, design and construction.
2,775 words (approx. 11.1 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper, in addition to explaining the design-build method, presents an overview of the history of construction and some of the traditional methods used for bidding on construction projects. The design-build method is ideal for parking garages, hospitals, banks, shopping malls or any other repetitive structural buildings because these types of structures are not architecturally driven and rely on predictable components. The author believes that most developers do not understand or appreciate the full range of benefits that design-build offers them.
From the Paper
"Since developers often choose design-build for accelerated project schedules, contractors need a way to ensure they will have enough skilled workers when they are needed and that they can attract them within the budget that has been established. Design-build project delivery greatly improves constructability and overall worker satisfaction. Many design-builders consult extensively with their subcontractors during the proposal stages and those firms have great sway on how their part of the project will be designed and built. Some union officials see problems with design-build project delivery because they think that this method simply adds one more layer of project management to the process and actually is slower than the design-bid-build delivery method. ?We are at the mercy of the construction manager much more often than before because of design-build,? says Rob Trenkle, director of the construction department of the Laborers International Union of North America. ?When a general contractor is in control of the whole job, there is less confusion and less steps you have to go through.? "
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City Walk, 2002.
This paper argues that, although quasi-public privatized spaces, like Universal City Walk in Los Angeles, show ethnic diversity and do not result in social stratification, they do represent the destruction of democratic public space.
1,590 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, although spaces like City Walk do not outright cause social stratification, they do result in segregation and unreal expectations of what public space truly represents. The paper states that a variety of security mechanisms has been put in place to prevent potential criminal activity. The author believes that, although spaces like City Walk may resemble true democratic public spaces, they actually are designed to attract consumers, thereby, automatically filtering out objectionable or disagreeable visitors.
From the Paper
"City Walk was developed and constructed as a safe haven for consumers. The clientele that City Walk attracts is a young, affluent and classy sort with money to spend. Consumers do not feel threatened due to the prevalence of security patrols and surveillance cameras that are posted throughout the park. City Walk, however, excludes an important part of the true urban population, people such as the homeless and perhaps even gang members who would normally be visible in a democratic public space."
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The Effects of Pop Culture on Society, 2002.
A paper which investigates the negative aspects of popular culture on society.
1,369 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
During the fifties, America experienced tremendous growth in many aspects of society. As a result, technological advancements led to sophisticated aspects of American life. Media and advertising became mass media and the invention of the television paved the way to a new generation of communication. The paper shows that a result of this growth, which continues to have an impact on society, was the rise of the ?popular? or mass culture - a movement that utilizes the imagery and techniques of consumerism?. This paper focuses on the negative aspects of popular culture on high culture (and therefore, on society), pointing out more than anything, that it devalues all the finer aspects of society.
From the Paper
"Architecture has also been influenced by what is considered to be modern or pop movements. Buildings constructed in geometric forms ?sheathed in glass and steel? startled people in the fifties. However, the most striking buildings earned ?a well-deserved reputation for innovation and beauty, such as the United Nations complex in New York City. Jackson Polluck, a painter who initially rejected the idea of abstract pop art, became famous for dripping and spattering paint on buildings as opposed to brushing them on. Examples of the outlandish types of buildings created in the name of popular art in the early fifties is a restaurant built in the shape of a hamburger and gas stations built to look like they were flying in the wind (Davidson 1150)."
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Romanesque and Gothic Architecture, 2002.
A comparison of the styles and features of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
2,014 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the architectural styles prevalent in Romanesque and Gothic times. It looks at unique characteristics and features of each of these periods and compares the two. It looks at how these two architectural styles were influenced by each other. Some of the famous building and constructions of each period is mentioned and explored - French Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame and the Romanesque style Saint-Sernin Church in Toulouse.
From the Paper
"Romanesque architecture flourished in Western Europe from approximately 1050 to 1200. It was influenced by Roman building techniques, particularly the use of the rounded arch and the grave simplicity and dignityof mood of classical structures. In England, it was frequently called Norman, as it was introduced to Britain by the conquering French in 1066."
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The Architecture of the Maya, 2002.
An examination of the architecture of the Maya and their great contribution to world architecture.
2,888 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 85.95
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Abstract
This paper is an examination of Mayan architecture which emerged from the rainforests of Guatemala and Yucatan. The writer maintains that the detailed architecture was a fitting monument to the highly sophisticated civilization that existed in the region before the Spanish arrived. This look at the style of Mayan architecture includes a diagram highlighting the areas of construction in Copan. The paper argues that Mayan culture was more than a collection of buildings in that every aspect of architecture was linked to the sacred world around. In conclusion the writer explains that the temple pyramid which symbolizes Mayan architectural skill is also a statement of their cosmographic ideas. Everything has a beginning and end. Everything is the beginning and the end.
From the Paper
"Deep in the tangled rainforests of Guatemala and the Yucatan, the Maya made some of the greatest contributions to world architecture. Their stone cities complete with temples, palaces, tombs, and ball courts are fitting monuments to the complex, and highly sophisticated civilization that existed in these regions many centuries before the arrival of the Spanish. Mayan priest-astronomers made elaborate calculations to catalog the passage of time. Great warrior kings immortalized themselves and their deeds on stelae, recording for future generations the contributions they had made toward maintaining the cosmic order. The Maya were the only Pre-Columbian people to ever have invented a complete system of writing".
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The Arch, 2002.
A discussion of the architecure of the arch.
610 words (approx. 2.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 21.95
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Abstract
This paper examines arches, one of the most common and familiar architectural formations to the eye whether outside a building or in the shape of a bridge. It looks at how arches are generally of three types, rounded, pointed and segmental and evaluates their structural advantages. The robust nature of masonry in constructing arch structures is illustrated by the longevity of the many ruins in Britain, many dating from the dissolution of the monasteries. It shows how arches have also been much used in modern architecture, usually in public buildings, such as the Sydney Opera house, where a striking appearance combined with strong acoustical support is critical.
From the Paper
"Arches are also evident in doorways, forming the curved top to a door or an open entryway. An entryway that is not supporting a wall is obviously less in need of material reinforcement than one bearing down a wall. A rounded arch shape, rather than a square shape always provides more support and reinforcement than a straight edge, because the pressure is distributed across more pressure points along the curved as opposed to a straight edged entry structure. This is one reason why a rounded shape is so popular for entryways. (Durkin ?Architectural Terms?)"
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