TOA

Theory of Architecture
Authorship + Disclaimer
This work is the property of
Pedro Santos Jr. and Dianne Ancheta.
For questions, contact the authors at arch.
pedrosantosjr@gmail.com and arch.
dianneancheta@gmail.com.
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INTRODUCTION
Rationale, competencies, and scope according to
PRC/PRBOA
RATIONALE / DESCRIPTION
Understanding of the theories and principles of design
and architectural design process
RATIONALE / DESCRIPTION
Analysis of anthropometric, proxemic, and kinesthetic
requirements of space in relation to architectural design
RATIONALE / DESCRIPTION
Analysis of socio-cultural and technological trends which
are contributory to the development of contemporary
architecture.
COMPETENCIES
▪ Relates the principles of architectural design to other
art forms.
▪ Transforms the psychological, visual and perceptual
language of architecture to signs and symbols of
architectural design.
▪ Identifies and applies principles of design composition.
▪ Assesses current theories and principles on
architectural design and applies this theories and
principles in the architectural design process.
COMPETENCIES
▪ Applies anthropometrics and ergonomics in
architectural design; applies proxemic and kinesthetic
requirements of space for human comfort in the
context of Filipino culture, their behaviors and
traditions and its effects on architectural space and
design.
▪ Applies analytical tools in determining the relevance of
architectural design theories to cultural development.
▪ Utilizes critical socio-cultural and technological
methods for analyzing design concepts in relation to
national development.
COMPETENCIES
▪ Correlates designing with interiors and landscapes in a
holistic approach.
▪ Applies significance of climate in the design process.
▪ Employs different processes and instruments that
apply in a climate-responsive design.
▪ Applies different concepts, theories and principles of
tropical design as applies to different tropical design
scenario and architectural design problem.
▪ Correlates the significance of philosophies of great
architects and their works to contemporary
architecture.
EXAM SUBJECT WEIGHTS
▪ 30%: History or architecture, theory of architecture;
principles of planning; architectural practice
▪ 30%: Structural design; building materials and
construction; utilities
▪ 40%: Architectural design and site planning
SCOPE OF TOA
▪ Module 1: Introduction to Theory and Architecture
▪ Module 2: Elements of Architecture and Principles of
Design
▪ Module 3: Design Perception
▪ Module 4: Tropical Architecture
▪ Module 5: Masters of Architecture
MODULE 1
Introduction to Theory and Architecture
OVERVIEW OF THE MODULE
▪ Module 1: Introduction to Theory and Architecture
▪ Part 1.1: Definition of theory and architecture
▪ Part 1.2: Architectural system and orders
▪ Part 1.3: Processes in architectural design
PART 1.1
Definition of Theory and Architecture
What is theory?
Theory
Abstract thought or speculation resulting in a system
of assumption or principles used in analyzing,
explaining, or predicting phenomena, and proposed or
followed as a basis of action.
TYPES OF THEORY
▪ Descriptive: simply explains events or phenomena.
▪ Prescriptive: prescribes guidelines.
What is architecture?
Architecture
The art and science of designing and constructing
buildings.
Art
The conscious use of skill, craft, and creative
imagination in the production of what is beautiful,
appealing, or of more than ordinary significance.
Science
A branch of knowledge dealing with a body of facts or
truths obtained by direct observation, experimental
investigation, and methodical study, systematically
arranged and showing the operation of general laws.
PART 1.2
Architectural Systems and Orders
Architectural systems

ROBOTO 44
Architectural systems
The architecture of space, ▪ Organizational pattern,
structure, and enclosure relationships, hierarchy
▪ Qualities of shape, color,
texture, scale,
proportion
▪ Qualities of surfaces,
edges, and openings
Architectural systems
Experienced through ▪ Approach and entry
movement in space and time ▪ Path configuration
and access
▪ Sequence of spaces
▪ Light, view, touch,
hearing, and smell
Architectural systems
Achieved by means of ▪ Structure and enclosure
technology ▪ Environmental protection and
comfort
▪ Health, safety, and welfare
▪ Durability
Architectural Systems
Accommodating a program ▪ User requirements, needs,
aspirations
▪ Socio-cultural factors
▪ Economic factors
▪ Legal restraints
▪ Historical tradition and
precedents
Architectural Systems
Compatible with its context
▪ Site and environment
▪ Climate: sun, wind,
temperature, and
precipitation
▪ Geography: soils,
topography,
vegetation, and water
▪ Sensory and cultural
characteristics of the
place
VILLA SAVOYE
Poissy, east of Paris. Le Corbusier.

This graphic analysis will illustrate the

way architecture embodies the
harmonious integration of interacting
and interrelated parts into a complex and
unified whole.
Spatial System
The three-dimensional integration of
program elements and spaces
accommodates the multiple functions
and relationships of a house.
Structural System
A grid of columns support horizontal
beams and slabs.
The cantilever acknowledges the
direction of approach along the
longitudinal axis.
Enclosure System
Four exterior wall planes define a
rectangular volume that contains the
program elements and spaces.
Circulation System
The stair and ramp penetrate and link the
three levels, and heighten the viewer’s
perception of forms in space and light.
The curved form of the entrance foyer
reflects the movement of the
automobile.
Context
A simple exterior form wraps around a
complex interior organization of forms
and spaces.
Elevating the main floor provides a better
view and avoids the humidity of the
ground.
A garden terrace distributes sunlight to
the spaces gathered around it.
Architectural orders
Architectural Orders
Physical ▪ Solids and voids ▪ Space
▪ Interior and exterior ▪ Structure
▪ Enclosure
▪ Machines
Architectural Orders
Perceptual Sensory perception ▪ Approach and
and recognition of Departure
the physical ▪ Entry and Egress
elements by ▪ Movement through
experiencing them the order of spaces
sequentially in time ▪ Functioning of and
activities within
spaces
▪ Qualities of light,
color, texture, view,
and sound.
Architectural Orders
Conceptual Comprehension of ▪ Images
the ordered and ▪ Patterns
disordered ▪ Signs
relationships among ▪ Symbols
a building’s ▪ Context
elements and
systems and
responding to the
meanings they
evoke.
PART 1.3
Processes in Architectural Design
Design process
A purposeful activity aimed at devising a plan for
changing an existing situation into a future preferred
state.
Design phases
1. Initiation
2. Preparation
3. Synthesis
4. Evaluation
5. Action
6. Reevaluation
Initiation
Identifying a problem and its social, economic, and
physical context.
Preparation
Collecting and analyzing relevant information and
establishing goals and criteria for an acceptable
solution.
Synthesis
Discovering constraints and opportunities, and
hypothesizing possible alternative solutions.
Evaluation
Simulating, testing, and modifying acceptable
alternatives according to specified goals and criteria.
Action
Selecting and implementing the most suitable
solution.
Reevaluation
Assessing how well an implemented solution in use
satisfies the specified goals and criteria.
End of Module 1