ROAD TRIP (opus 11)

Roots

Root refers to the origins of something or someone’s home or environment.  Roots plat new beginnings and designate the origin of that influence. For example, the medieval and baroque periods heavily influenced the post design eras. As the root of a tree grows and strengths the tree itself, design concepts and time periods do the same. Without that underlying foundation, new innovations in design would fail because there wouldn’t be the provided stability that influences all the present and future designs to come. 

Congruence

Congruence relates to symmetry in a great and eminent way. It is the quality or state of agreeing or corresponding to something to create a unified and cohesive composition. Congruence represents harmony and conformity.

Concept

A concept is compiling ideas together to suggest a general notion or idea formed by characteristics or particulars from a precedent. The concept allows a designer to develop ideas and create a unique composition by looking at the work of others and gaining inspiration from other things. In studio, for example, we are making a window details that captures and manipulates light to make the building a “glittering gem” in the distance. As a studio we decided to work of the concept of a “gem” and a “Tiffany lamp” and how they both create different facets and colors while they manipulate the light. 

Materiality

Materiality is largely dependent on the materials being used and the methods and techniques in which they are manipulated to create a structure. Frank Lloyd Wright was very mindful about the materials he used and the manner in which he used them. “Wright adapted a design of horizontals and verticals and the use of natural materials to create a uniquely American style of expression.” (Massey 51) Massey shows how he combines his design techniques and the materials he has to work with. “Built on a rocky hillside, the concrete structure cantilevers over a waterfall. The emphasis is on the organic, with rock-masonry walls, North Carolina walnut furniture and fittings, and huge windows creating a harmony between the natural beauty of the setting and the interior living space.” (Massey 85)

Compression : Release

Fallingwater demonstrates a prime example of the compression versus release theory. Wright designed the home to be a retreat and a relaxing residential space. He practically forced the residents to be comfortable by working off the thought of compressions and releases. In some of his rooms, the ceilings are lowered to just above the head, emitting a feeling of closeness.  It makes you want to sit and relax at the same time drawing you into the natural beauty of the location. While it compresses in some places, it releases in others that aren’t meant to be “relaxed” in quite as much. The ceiling opens some along with the space between the walls, allowing for more movement rather than a constricted and compressed illusion.