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6.1 [Assignments] Material and Structural Techniques
LA_2… EU Emre Umit
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Table of Contents Module 6: Urban Environments Module 6 Graded Coursework 6.1 [Assignments] Material and Structural Techniques
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Instructions
You will now be analyzing the relationship between your chosen site and its
materials, technology, construction techniques, and structural systems. Most
important is that you are able to identify the primary structural system(s) used and
place your analyses within the historical context of that technique. (If your
building uses "flying buttresses," for example, you should be able to locate it
within the history of the buttressing system and its development.) This assignment
will require you to find some information from neighboring fields, so conduct your
research accordingly (Students often find good sources in journals about
construction and engineering.). Try to address most of the following questions, as
they are relevant to your site:
Which materials, and how much of them, were used?
What tools were used to move the materials and build the structure?
Did the builders use temporary supports during construction?
What types of architects, if any (e.g., engineers, mathematicians, sculptors,
etc.), worked on the project?
Were the builders trained and educated?
How long did it take to build? How many laborers were used?
How did they use the technology available at the time?
What new architectural devices, materials, techniques, or ideas were
utilized at the site?
Was it innovative? How did it differ from past structures?
Do the structural systems benefit the interior in terms of natural lighting or
ventilation?