This document discusses different types of theories and how they relate to research methodologies in architecture. It begins by defining theory and explaining how theories emerge from systematic explanations. It then discusses the key components of theories, including propositions, logical connections, conclusions, empirical links, assumptions, and testability. Different types of theories are described, such as positive vs normative, big/medium/small, and polemical theories. Scientific theories are contrasted with design theories, with the latter focused more on persuasion than prediction. Finally, seven types of architectural research methods are outlined: interpretive-historical, qualitative, correlational, experimental, simulation, logical argumentation, and case study.
M.ARCH (ENVIRONMENTAL ARCHITECTURE)
RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES IN ARCHITECTURE
ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI
M.ARCH. (ENVIRONMENTAL ARCHITECTURE)
2 MARKS QUESTIONS
Chapter 2 ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGYHazrina Haja
Guide to development of academic writing; chapter 2 (literature review) and abstract writing as well as referencing system. Focus area: architecture but not limited to.Research Methodology Class BAGS6106 in University of Malaya, Malaysia. Feb 2019
Architectural Professional Practice - Programming الممارسة المهنية المعمارية ...Galala University
Architectural Professional Practice - Programming الممارسة المهنية المعمارية - البرمجة
عمل البرامج للمشروعات المعمارية
تحديد العناصر و المساحات والعلاقات الوظيفية
M.ARCH (ENVIRONMENTAL ARCHITECTURE)
RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES IN ARCHITECTURE
ANNA UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI
M.ARCH. (ENVIRONMENTAL ARCHITECTURE)
2 MARKS QUESTIONS
Chapter 2 ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGYHazrina Haja
Guide to development of academic writing; chapter 2 (literature review) and abstract writing as well as referencing system. Focus area: architecture but not limited to.Research Methodology Class BAGS6106 in University of Malaya, Malaysia. Feb 2019
Architectural Professional Practice - Programming الممارسة المهنية المعمارية ...Galala University
Architectural Professional Practice - Programming الممارسة المهنية المعمارية - البرمجة
عمل البرامج للمشروعات المعمارية
تحديد العناصر و المساحات والعلاقات الوظيفية
how to make architecture graduation project Eman Ateek
Its a presentation made by me for architecture senior year students about how to get a concept to your project , how to start your drawing , tricks and tips about how to manage the project .
all in highlight titles .
Post-Modern Architecture - An international architectural movement that emerged in the 1960s, became prominent in the late 1970s and 80s, and remained a dominant force in the 1990s.
1.2 town planning greek and roman cultureSachin PatiL
Necessity scope principles of Town Planning,
Present status of town planning in India,
Contribution of town planners in modern era,
Sir Patrick Geddes,
Sir Ebenezer Howard,
Clarence stein,
Sir Patrick Abercrombie,
Le Corbusier,
MIXED USE HIGH RISE BUILDING RESEARCH - EGYPTSarah Amin
-Site Analysis to 3 main potential sites in Egypt:
1- New Administrative Capital
2- Rosetta
3- Aswan
and SWOT analysis to all 3 sites.
-Structure System Of High Rise Buildings + Case studies.
-High Rise Buildings Analysis
-Facade Analysis
-Environmental Aspects
-General Regulations and Standards to a mixed use high rise buildings.
how to make architecture graduation project Eman Ateek
Its a presentation made by me for architecture senior year students about how to get a concept to your project , how to start your drawing , tricks and tips about how to manage the project .
all in highlight titles .
Post-Modern Architecture - An international architectural movement that emerged in the 1960s, became prominent in the late 1970s and 80s, and remained a dominant force in the 1990s.
1.2 town planning greek and roman cultureSachin PatiL
Necessity scope principles of Town Planning,
Present status of town planning in India,
Contribution of town planners in modern era,
Sir Patrick Geddes,
Sir Ebenezer Howard,
Clarence stein,
Sir Patrick Abercrombie,
Le Corbusier,
MIXED USE HIGH RISE BUILDING RESEARCH - EGYPTSarah Amin
-Site Analysis to 3 main potential sites in Egypt:
1- New Administrative Capital
2- Rosetta
3- Aswan
and SWOT analysis to all 3 sites.
-Structure System Of High Rise Buildings + Case studies.
-High Rise Buildings Analysis
-Facade Analysis
-Environmental Aspects
-General Regulations and Standards to a mixed use high rise buildings.
How to read a city?
Cities are becoming more important than states. They are the centers of activities and knowledge. Buildings are only one element of their significance. The city is a context of a human experience. People are the real meaning givers and receivers of cities.
The first joint seminar between the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qatar University and Qatar Green Building Council on "Sustainability: Prospects for the Future” was held on Thursday, December 9, 2010. Presentation by Dr. Yasser Mahgoub of Architectural Design 1 (Fall 2010) project “Recycling for a Sustainable Environment: A Chair from recycled materials."
Integrating Sustainability Strategies in Design and Practice - ادماج استراتجي...Galala University
As sustainability is becoming more and more a familiar topic in engineering practice and education, the problem remains on how to achieve sustainability in front of client, cost and construction industry challenges. The lecture proposes the integration of sustainability in design process, education and legislation. The lecture focuses on sustainability strategies that can be incorporated in practice and design process. The goal is to make sustainability an integral part of practice that influences both design and construction stages. Other attempts should be made to make sustainability an integral part of legislation and education.
Understand the expression of identity as part of socio-cultural sustainability
Identify the different types and levels of identity expressions
Discuss examples of projects incorporating socio-cultural identity in the design
Building Performance Evaluation - تقييم أداء المبانيGalala University
Abstract: Building Performance Evaluation
This lecture outlines a comprehensive approach to Building Performance Evaluation applicable to all architectural and urban design projects. The Building Performance Evaluation process encompasses functional and technical performance of buildings alongside human performance criteria, while recognizing the cultural context of the project. Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) offers feedback on design and contributes to architectural knowledge.
ضمن سلسلة محاضراتها المهنية، نظمت جمعية المهندسين القطرية يوم الثلاثاء 1 مارس بمسرح الحي الثقافي محاضرة قدمها د. ياسر محجوب أستاذ العمارة بقسم العمارة والتخطيط العمراني بكلية الهندسة جامعة قطر محاضرة بعنوان "تقييم أداء المباني" تحت رعاية شركة تكنىتال. ويشمل تقييم أداء المباني تقييم كفاءة التصميم المعماري والأداء التقني للمباني بالإضافة إلى تقييم معايير الأداء الإنساني. وتوفر أبحاث تقييم أداء المباني معلومات مرتجعة عن التّصميم المعماري تساهم في الإضافة إلى المعرفة المعمارية، كما تقترح حلول للمشاكل القائمة بالإضافة إلى توجيه أسس ومعايير التصميم للحصول على مشروعات أفضل في المستقبل.
What is the role of THEORY in Urbanism?Roberto Rocco
This is a presentation prepared for the course Methodology for Urbanism (Ar2U090) of the the TU Delft, Faculty of Architecture. In this presentation we discuss what is theory and why we need theories in Urbanism.
TDG President and Principal Analyst, Michael Greeson presents the beginning stages of his Quantum Theory of Media- where anytime, anywhere media is reshaping the fundamentals of creation, distribution, and consumption.
Impact of Climate and Environment Changes on the Sustainability of the Coasta...Galala University
Impact of Climate and Environment Changes on the Sustainability of the Coastal Areas: The Case of Ain Sukhna, Red Sea, Egypt
This paper investigates the impact of climate and environmental changes on the sustainability of the coastal area of Ain Sukhna, Red Sea, Egypt. Ain Sukhna sea shores and Galala mountain region have witnessed rapid change and modifications during the past 50 years. Climate changes are expected to impact this area through the increase in the amount and intensity of rainfall and the rise of seawater tides. Modifications applied to the topography of the mountains through grading and levelling are spreading excavation debris on the sides of the mountains creating a new hazard if swept away by the rainwater. The paper analyzes the design and construction of the coastal and mountain developments and assesses their capacity to withstand these changes. The negative impact of these changes is not only ecological but also physical and socioeconomic. Climate change impacts are becoming more instantaneous and intensified. Place-based strategies for reducing the negative impact of climate change are required to reduce the physical and ecological vulnerabilities and manage the impacts of climate change.
Climate change, Environment Change, Sustainability, Coastal Areas, Ain Sukhna, Red Sea, Egypt
Sustainability of Tourism Development in the city of Ain-Sukhna, EgyptGalala University
Sustainability of Tourism Development in the city of Ain-Sukhna, Egypt
Tourism is a major economic source for Egypt, due to its significant natural and cultural attractions. Yet, rapid development and construction of touristic facilities have a negative impact on the fragile natural and cultural heritage. This paper studies the recent touristic developments of the coastal stretch of Ain-Sukhna on the Red Sea coastal region of Galala Mountain, and their impact on the surrounding natural and cultural attractions. Coral reefs and rich marine life have made this stretch among the prime fishing and scuba diving destinations in the world. The area is also famous for its year-round sunny beaches and the spectacular coastal scenic drive where Galala Mountain reaches the Red Sea. Recently, development has started on the mountains following the construction of Galala Mountain Road. Galala City started with Galala University and several residential, touristic, and commercial facilities. This paper studies the pattern of development in the area during the past 40 years and assesses its impact on natural and cultural resources.
Sustainability of Tourism Development in Al Ain Al Sukhna, Egypt Yasser Mahgo...Galala University
Sustainability of Tourism Development in Al Ain Al Sukhna, Egypt
Due to its significant natural and cultural attractions, tourism is a major economic source for Egypt. Yet, rapid development and construction of touristic facilities has negative impact on the fragile natural and cultural heritage. This paper studies the recent touristic developments of the coastal stretch of Al Ain Al Sukhna – the hot spring in Arabic - on the Red Sea coastal region of Galala mountain, and their impact on the surrounding natural and cultural attractions. Coral reefs and rich marine life have made this stretch among the prime fishing and scuba diving destinations in the world. The area is also famous of its all-year-round sunny beaches, spectacular coastline scenic drive where mountains reach the costal road. Recently, development has started on the mountains following the construction of Galala Mountainous road. Galala City started operating hosting Galal University and several other residential, touristic and commercial facilities. The paper studies the pattern of development in the area during the past 50 years and assesses its impact on the natural and cultural resources.
Typologies of Urban Development in Sukhna-Zaafarana Area.pdfGalala University
Development of Sukhna-Zaafarana stretch went several forms and intensities during different periods of time. It is currently witnessing another wave of rapid development resulting in more stress on the natural and urban environment. This paper analyses the typologies of its urban development and their resilience to potential risks of climate change using urban design techniques to analyze the area in terms of character, continuity and quality of the public realm, ease of movement, legibility, adaptability and diversity. In addition, the research analyzes the different natural sites, such as the shoreline, the floodplains, the Galala mountains, and the valleys. Methods used in this study included: survey and analysis of the built and natural environments based on maps and site visits; and SWOT analysis to identify the potential risks and challenges in the area. Maps and tables of typologies based on the date of construction, environmental characteristics, neighborhood planning, architectural design elements, urban design features, landscape design, greenery, and water features are produced. The results of the study indicate the absence of visual connectivity, architectural identity, public services and facilities, and overlapping vehicular and pedestrian circulation. Moreover, the built environment is vulnerable to climate change risks, since most structures on the coast are built either close to the shoreline or on floodplains, hence threatened by sea-level rise and extreme flush floods respectively. The study concludes by suggesting a set of urban design guidelines based on the three principles of sustainability; environmental, economic and equity to achieve a more sustainable and resilient environment.
AI-Human Dialogue for Architectural Design Concept Generation presentation 26...Galala University
AI-Human Dialogue for Architectural Design Concept Generation presentation
Architectural design concept generation is the process of coming up with the initial ideas for a new building or structure.
It is an essential part of the architectural design process, as it provides the foundation for the rest of the design.
AI-human dialogue for architectural design concept generation is a process where an architect and an AI system collaborate to generate architectural design concepts.
The AI system can be used to:
Generate ideas: The AI system can be used to generate a wide range of design ideas
Evaluate ideas: The AI system can also be used to evaluate design ideas. This can be done by considering factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. This can help the architect to make informed decisions about the design.
Collaborate with the architect: The AI system can also be used to collaborate with the architect. This can be done by providing feedback on the architect's ideas or by generating new ideas based on the architect's input.
AI-human dialogue for architectural design concept generation is a process where an architect and an AI system collaborate to generate architectural design concepts.
The AI system can be used to:
Generate ideas: The AI system can be used to generate a wide range of design ideas
Evaluate ideas: The AI system can also be used to evaluate design ideas. This can be done by considering factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. This can help the architect to make informed decisions about the design.
Collaborate with the architect: The AI system can also be used to collaborate with the architect. This can be done by providing feedback on the architect's ideas or by generating new ideas based on the architect's input. AI-human dialogue for architectural design concept generation is a process where an architect and an AI system collaborate to generate architectural design concepts.
The AI system can be used to:
Generate ideas: The AI system can be used to generate a wide range of design ideas
Evaluate ideas: The AI system can also be used to evaluate design ideas. This can be done by considering factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. This can help the architect to make informed decisions about the design.
Collaborate with the architect: The AI system can also be used to collaborate with the architect. This can be done by providing feedback on the architect's ideas or by generating new ideas based on the architect's input.
AI-human dialogue for architectural design concept generation is a process where an architect and an AI system collaborate to generate architectural design concepts.
As AI systems continue to develop, they are likely to play an increasingly important role in the design process.
AI is not an end …It is only another beginning.
Thank you.
Hello everyone! I am thrilled to present my latest portfolio on LinkedIn, marking the culmination of my architectural journey thus far. Over the span of five years, I've been fortunate to acquire a wealth of knowledge under the guidance of esteemed professors and industry mentors. From rigorous academic pursuits to practical engagements, each experience has contributed to my growth and refinement as an architecture student. This portfolio not only showcases my projects but also underscores my attention to detail and to innovative architecture as a profession.
Transforming Brand Perception and Boosting Profitabilityaaryangarg12
In today's digital era, the dynamics of brand perception, consumer behavior, and profitability have been profoundly reshaped by the synergy of branding, social media, and website design. This research paper investigates the transformative power of these elements in influencing how individuals perceive brands and products and how this transformation can be harnessed to drive sales and profitability for businesses.
Through an exploration of brand psychology and consumer behavior, this study sheds light on the intricate ways in which effective branding strategies, strategic social media engagement, and user-centric website design contribute to altering consumers' perceptions. We delve into the principles that underlie successful brand transformations, examining how visual identity, messaging, and storytelling can captivate and resonate with target audiences.
Methodologically, this research employs a comprehensive approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. Real-world case studies illustrate the impact of branding, social media campaigns, and website redesigns on consumer perception, sales figures, and profitability. We assess the various metrics, including brand awareness, customer engagement, conversion rates, and revenue growth, to measure the effectiveness of these strategies.
The results underscore the pivotal role of cohesive branding, social media influence, and website usability in shaping positive brand perceptions, influencing consumer decisions, and ultimately bolstering sales and profitability. This paper provides actionable insights and strategic recommendations for businesses seeking to leverage branding, social media, and website design as potent tools to enhance their market position and financial success.
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2. Chapter 4
Theory in Relation to Method
Architectural Research Methods
Linda Groat & David Wang
3. 4.1. Introduction
A Theory emerges when explanation is set
forth systematically, usually from
language, or by means of other signs and
annotation.
4. 4.1. Introduction
What is theoria?
• The “active contemplation” of an object, rather
than the passive reception of external effects.”
5. What is theory?
Several definitions depending on the discipline.
• In the natural sciences it is a removed and systematic
accounting of an object where exact prediction is very
high; i.e. where the relationship between several factors
can be demonstrated to cause a result that can be
predicted over and over again. If it cannot be
demonstrated then it is determined to be a false theory.
6. What is theory?
• In the human sciences it is not
based on exact prediction (as
much), but rather on statistical
probabilities that can generalize
on behavior or on a detailed
“thick description” of a particular
social-cultural context.
• In the fine arts it is based on
systematic philosophical
constructions.
7. A scientific theory: Archimedes'
Buoyancy Principle “EUREKA!”
• After he discovered his principle of buoyancy, the
ancient Greek scholar Archimedes allegedly yelled out
"Eureka!" and ran naked through the city of Syracuse.
The story goes that Archimedes made his great
breakthrough when he noticed the water rise as he got
into the tub.
• According to Archimedes' buoyancy principle, the
force acting on (buoying) a submerged or partially
submerged object equals the weight of the liquid that
the object displaces. This sort of principle has an
immense range of applications and is essential to
calculations of density, as well as designing
submarines and other oceangoing vessels.
• Explains the past, the present and predicts the future!
8. A scientific theory: Law of
Gravitation
• more than 300 years ago Sir Isaac Newton proposed a
revolutionary idea: that any two objects, no matter their
mass, exert gravitational force toward one another. This
law is represented by an equation that many high
schoolers encounter in physics class. It goes as follows:
F = G × [(m1m2)/r²]
• F is the gravitational force between the two objects, measured in
Newtons. m1 and m2 are the masses of the two objects, while r is the distance
between them. G is the gravitational constant.
• The benefit of the universal law of gravitation is that it
allows us to calculate the gravitational pull between any
two objects. This ability is especially useful when
scientists are planning to put a satellite in orbit or
charting the course of the moon.
• Explains the past, the present and predicts the future!
9. 2
A scientific theory: E=mc
• E represents energy, m represents mass, and c² is the square of the
speed of light (2.9 x 10^8 meters per second!).
• A tiny amount of mass when multiplied by such a huge number (C)
yields an incredible amount of energy. Releasing that energy can do
everything from power cities (a nuclear power plant) to destroy them
(a nuclear bomb).
• Predicts the future!
10. A scientific theory: Big Bang
Theory
• The big bang theory postulates that the universe began almost 14
billion years ago with a massive expansion event. At the time, the
universe was confined to a single point, encompassing all of the
universe's matter. That original movement continues today, as the
universe keeps expanding outward.
• Explains the past, the present and predicts the future!
11. A scientific theory: PLACEBO
EFFECT
• If you're given a pill and told it'll cure your headache, and your
condition improves even though the pill contains nothing but chalk,
you have experienced the placebo effect. If you believe in it strongly
enough, almost anything can have a placebo effect.
• Scientific tests under controlled conditions have shown that placebo
effects can be enhanced by giving people bigger pills, by giving them
pink pills rather than white ones, and by the perceived seniority of the
doctor who's prescribing the pill.
• Predicts the future!
If you believe in it strongly enough,
almost anything can have the placebo
effect
12. A scientific theory: MEMETICS
• Whenever we copy habits, skills, stories or any kind of information
from person to person, we're dealing in memes. The term was
coined by Richard Dawkins to describe 'cultural replicators' that
copy and transmit biological information. Humans copy memes,
including ideas and skills, through imitation and teaching; but they
get changed, accidentally or on purpose, so that culture evolves.
This echoes the way species evolve as genes mutate. Like genes,
some memes are successful, while others aren't. It's obvious why
some memes spread - they're useful, or aesthetically pleasing, like
melodies. But some spread even though they confer no clear
benefit - things like computer viruses.
• Predicts the future!
13. An Architecture Theory:
Vitruvius
• "De architectura libri decem" (Ten Books on
Architecture), the oldest treatise on architecture to
survive in its entirety from pre-Christian times.
• Vitruvius' work is not simply a unique source off
information about the architecture of antiquity and
its principles, but has become the foundation for all
writings on architectural theory since the Born: Rome ca. 80 B.C.
Renaissance. Died: Rome, ca. 20 B.C.
• The three fundamental laws that Architecture must
obey, in order to be so considered: firmitas, utilitas, Firmitas
firmness
venustas, translated in the 17th century by Sir
Henry Wotton into the English slogan firmness,
commodity and delight (meaning structural
Utilitas Venustas
adequacy, functional adequacy, and beauty).
commodity delight
• What architecture is!
14. An Architecture Theory:
Le Corbusier
• The New Spirit of the 20th-century: The ideal house
as “a machine for living. Based on engineering
achievements in bridge building and steamship
construction; on modern materials such
as ferroconcrete, sheet glass, and synthetics; and on
contemporary needs such as town
planning and housing projects.
• The International style of low-lying, unadorned
buildings that depend for aesthetic effect on simplicity
of forms and relation to function.
• What architecture should be!
15. Architecture quotes
• “Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent, of forms assembled in the light.” Le
Corbusier quotes (Swiss Architect and city planner, whose designs combine the functionalism of
the modern movement with a bold, sculptural expressionism. 1887-1965)
• “The mother art is architecture. Without an architecture of our own we have no soul of our own
civilization.” Frank Lloyd Wright quotes (American Architect and Writer, the most abundantly
creative genius of American architecture. His Prairie style became the basis of 20th century
residential design in the United States, 1867-1959)
• “All architecture is shelter, all great architecture is the design of space that contains, cuddles,
exalts, or stimulates the persons in that space.” Philip Johnson
• “There are three forms of visual art: Painting is art to look at, sculpture is art you can walk around,
and architecture is art you can walk through” Dan Rice
• “Architecture is a social act and the material theater of human activity.” Spiro Kostof
• “Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions.” Coco Chanel (French Fashion
designer who ruled over Parisian haute couture for almost six decades, 1883-1971)
• “Architecture, of all the arts, is the one which acts the most slowly, but the most surely, on the
soul” Ernest Dimnet
• “An architect is the drawer of dreams” Grace McGarvie
• “Architecture is music in space, as it were a frozen music” Friedrich Wilhelm Joseph von Schelling
• “Writing about music is like dancing about architecture.” Laurie Anderson
16. How is Theory related to research Methodology?
Theory describes, explains, and predicts.
Research methodologies are:
1. Prescribed ways to test and prove or disprove
those descriptions, explanations, and
predications.
2. Provide a means by which theoretical claims to
applicability beyond the particular case can be
affirmed, modified, or rejected.
Theories are more general, but research
methodologies are more specific.
17. Good Fit
• There are usually “good fits” between
Theory and Method (strategy).
18. 4.2. The Framework of Theory
in General
Six components of a theory (Moore)
1. Propositions/observations about some
aspect of the universe (something visible
and knowable)
2. Logical connections between the
propositions (abstract factors)
3. A set of conclusions drawn from #1 and
#2 that the logical connections can be
used to predict the propositions or
observations
19. 4.2. The Framework of Theory
in General
Six components of a theory (Moore)
4. Linkages to empirical reality; i.e. assumption
that the factors in #2 can be used to accurately
represent empirical reality. (Empirical is: Relying
on or derived from observation or experiment:
empirical results that supported the hypothesis.
Verifiable or provable by means of observation or
experiment: empirical laws. Guided by practical
experience and not theory, especially in medicine.)
5. A set of assumptions or presuppositions
underlying the theory.
6. Testability of the theory: related both to its
internal logical coherence (understandable by
others) and its applicability to other cases.
20. 4.2. The Framework of Theory
in General
2 added components of a theory (Moore)
1. Disciplinary domain
2. Philosophical axioms
21. Example of an Architectural
Theory
• David Canter Theory of
Place
• Physical environments take
Physical
on significance as a result of
the interaction of three
domains: Physical locale,
Activity performed in that Activities Meanings
locale and the meanings
assigned to that union of
place with activity.
• “Constituents of Places”
22. 4.3. Different Ways to Conceptually
Divide Theory in General
4.3.1. Positive vs. Normative Theory
• Positive theory: Descriptive and explanatory – Identify
causal links - Predicts future behaviors of objects based
on identified causal links. (definite, scientific, logical
rigor)
• Normative theory: Describe, explain and predicts future
behaviors based on long-term usage or accepted, but
not proven “truths”. These do not have the same rigor of
proof (testing) as positive theory and can have a variety
of results. (Design or architectural theory)
23. John Lang “Creating Architectural Theory”
• Architectural theory: Behavioral concerns related to the
process of designing environments.
Design
Positive Current fields
Theory Normative
Theories
Design
Positive fields Proposed
Theory Normative
Theories
24. 4.3. Different Ways to Conceptually
Divide Theory in General
4.3.2. Big, Medium and Small Theories
• Big theories are large in scope—link several
phenomena into one explanatory framework that
is transferable to other disciplines
• Small theories are limited in scope—localized
explanations of things, not necessarily
transferable to other situations
• Medium theories have a little of both and are
useful within a certain discipline, but will not
have wide applicability across disciplines
25. Example of Middle-range
Architectural Theories
• Privacy
• Personal Space
• Territoriality
• Aging and the environment
• Environment and crime
26. Example of Middle-range
Architectural Theory
• Dan Cuff “Excellent Buildings”
• Consumers or public
• Participants in the design
process Consumer
• The Architectural Profession
Designers Profession
27. 4.3. Different Ways to Conceptually
Divide Theory in General
4.3.3. Polemical Theories of Design
• Polemic: A controversial argument, especially
one refuting or attacking a specific opinion or
doctrine. A person engaged in or inclined to
controversy, argument, or refutation.
• In this case, different “theories” of architectural
design that take opposite or varying stances on
a certain concept.
28. Example of Polemically Theories
Related to Design Activities
• Set of visual attributes Pugin
“pointed gothic architecture”
• How cultural time should be
expressed in architectural form
Ginzburg, Venturi “Complexity
and Contradiction in Architecture”
• How natural processes ought to
be expressed in material form
Sullivan “Form ever follows
function”
29. Scientific Theories vs.
Theories of Design
• Designers tend to discuss ‘theories’ of
what should be done”
• Scientists refer to ‘theories’ of “what might
be the case”
Scientific Design
Theories Theories
30. 4.3. Different Ways to Conceptually
Divide Theory in General
4.3.4. Prediction vs. Persuasion
• Positive Theory identifies “causal” links that lead
to “predictions” of future behavior.
• Design “theories” tend to have less predictability
(no causal links, testing), and are based rather
on rhetoric and persuasion (generalizability
depends on how subjectively universal it claims
to be or how much it is understood by a large
group of people; i.e. cultural).
• Positive and polemical design theories emerge
out of a cultural context.
31. Example of Polemical Architectural
Design Theories
• Mies “Less is More”
– Machine aesthetic
– Human identity
32. Example of Polemical Architectural
Design Theories
• Sullivan “Form Ever
Follows Function”
It is the pervading law of all things organic
and inorganic,
Of all things physical and metaphysical,
Of all things human and all things super-
human,
Of all true manifestations of the head,
Of the heart, of the soul,
That the life is recognizable in its expression,
That form ever follows function.
This is the law.
33. A Theory is the link between a philosophy
and the strategies and tactics of research.
35. 4.3. Seven types of research
Seven types of research explained in the
book include:
1. Interpretive-historical
2. Qualitative
3. Correlational
4. Experimental
5. Simulation
6. Logical argumentation
7. Case study
36. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.1. Interpretive-historical
• Philosophy: The world is coherent and can be
known through narratives.
• Tactic: Use empirical evidence from the past
• Sources: Archival material, public and private
documents, the site, interviews of eyewitness,
comparison with similar situations, re-
enactment of key actions or events
• Example: Rybczynski Home: A short history
of an idea – the evolution of home from the
medieval period to the late 20th century. Why
ideas first emerged? Privacy, intimacy, comfort,
hygiene, family home, …
37. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.2. Qualitative
• Interpretation of contemporary situations
• More subjective with emphasis on the role of the
researcher: background, gender, point of view, …
• Philosophy: Pure objectivity is impossible
particularly of complex social-cultural settings.
• Example: Gans Levittown, New Jersey: post
WW2 housing boom, planned communities
• Theory: New community development, how much
of town planning is affected by builders and
residents, is suburban life bad? Rapid growth vs
Slow growth.
• Tactic: Participant-observer, open-ended
questionnaires, interviews, notes narrative.
38. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.3. Correlational
• Philosophy: “Real World Experience”. Much of
life experience cannot be explained purely by
causal connections, many things cannot be
linked to a specific cause, in situations involving
human beings, reducing experience down to
specific causal variables is hard to do and
unethical. Tries to show that while certain
variables have strong relationships with other
variables, there does not have to be proof that
one variable causes the other.
• Strategic: Well-defined variables.
• Example: Newman High-rise vs Low-rise
public housing in NY – Crime - Defensible Space
39. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.4. Experimental
• Philosophy: Causal connections. Scientific, objective, and
quantifiable, seeks causal connections between two
variables with a reliably predictable result.
• Tactic: Manipulate a variable within controlled setting and
observe effect of that variable on behavior, material data.
• Example: Brandle and Boehm triple-glazed windows
performance
• Example: Zeisel senior citizens’ residence
40. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.5. Simulation
• Philosophy: How reality is constituted? How
can one know it? Descartes I think therefore
I am.
• Theory: Knowledge of reality can be obtained
by reproducing that reality in some substitute
medium. Clipson Iconic, analogues,
operational, and mathematical. Porter
Computer.
• Example: Airflow in an interior space.
• Will computer modeling replace physical
models? Pros and Cons? Engagement with
buildings or even 3D models result in more
“embodied” sense of ultimate form.
41. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.6. Logical argumentation
• Philosophy: System – definition, parts,
relationship, delimits, connection to other
systems in logical manner. Necessity,
contingency, induction vs. deduction, a priori
and posteriori formulations.
• Tactics: Attempts to place a well documented
thing within a systematic framework that
explains the thing.
• Example: March & Stiny Shape Grammar –
systematic way of understanding formal
composition
42. 4.3. Seven types of research
4.3.7. Case study research
• Philosophy: Conceptual container.
• Contain one or more other research
approaches or can be used as one of
several devices under the umbrella of a
single research.
• Tactics: Several case studies can be
compared to reach a general set of
observations.
• Example: Moos & Lemke Group
housing for the aged.