Reaction paper 1 Learning from Las Vegas

1. BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN ARCHITECTURE
THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM
(ARC61303/ARC2224)
SYNOPSIS: REACTION PAPER (MARCH 2017)
Name: Joyce Wee Yi Qin ID No.: 0319602
Lecturer: Prince Favis Isip Tutorial Time:
Reader/Text Title: Learning from Las Vegas Synopsis No: 1
Author: R. Venturi, D.S. Brown, S. Izenour
Through the text, it is understood that most architects are convinced that spatial characteristics is the
main component in architecture that makes it different from arts. The authors argued on the validity of
form in space, declaring a definite iconology at which questioned the removal of symbolic paintings
and graphics from architecture. In my opinion, iconology and symbolism exists not to diminish the
significance of spatial character in architecture, but to enhance the architectural intentions.
The Strip is an expression of symbolic communication in vast spaces to provide the sense of direction,
an example of architectural persuasion using symbols and forms. The dominance of signs along the
Vegas Strip gives a sense of orientation along the highway in the vast desert. The Strip is likely an
archetype equipped with the values of symbolism and allusion in architecture of vast spaces and speed,
in which architecture itself is shadowed by its dominance. I agree on the significance of symbolism in
architecture as it can give meanings to forms in spaces, besides providing clarity in terms of orientation.
Moreover, with the variety of architecture styles along the strip, the big signs along the strip seems to
have become the unifying factor to the architecture of that space. In a way, big signage and symbols
has become the architecture style of the Vegas Strip.
In conclusion, architecture and symbolism is inseparable and in many ways relevant. The idea of having
symbols over form does not necessary means the elimination of architectural aspects. Instead,
architecture should always be equal and non-judgmental, allowing a creation of something emphatically
sensitive to the actual requirements.
Word Count: 268 Mark Grade
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