The document explores the definition of architecture, emphasizing its dual role as both an art and a science that encompasses structural integrity, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. It references Roman architect Marcus Vitruvius who describes architecture through three principles: firmitas (structural soundness), utilitas (functional utility), and venustas (beauty). The text further discusses the cultural and existential implications of architecture throughout history and its reflection of human aspiration and societal values.

1. Course 01:
Definition of architecture
Presented by : Dr. ARABA Mabrouk
University Mohamed Boudiaf - M'sila
Institute of G.T.U
Speciality : Architecture
Course : Project theory 1
First year Architecture

2. Introduction
Matter : Project theory 1
General objectives of the teaching subject :
 Definition of architecture.
 Acquisition of the foundations of composition
in architecture.
 Familiarization with architectural language.
 Introduction to reading and understanding
architectural space.

3. Introduction
The origin of the act of building dates back to ancient times and can be
assimilated to man's need to protect himself from the vagaries of nature (rain,
wind, heat, etc.) and other dangers. Living conditions led man to shelter in caves
or build huts with rudimentary means; he gradually developed his habitat until he
built entire cities and buildings using very advanced techniques.

4. Introduction
But beyond finding refuge, the act of building takes on a cultural or even
existential dimension for man, its objective goes beyond the simple satisfaction
of practical needs and reflects man's desire to assert his existence on earth as
evidenced by ancient achievements. The act of building then takes on a
symbolic as well as practical value; the aim of carrying out constructions is not
only utilitarian, it is also cultural and spiritual.

5. Introduction
Throughout history, architecture has constituted an essential domain of the
production of societies, it expresses their aspirations and constitutes a
determining aspect of the culture of peoples. If differences exist according to
cultures, places and times, what remains immutable is the faculty of man,
through this act of building, of organizing his environment and making it
permanently adapted to his needs and aspirations.

6. Definition of architecture
What is architecture?
The word architecture can have many meanings. Architecture can be both an art
and a science, a process and a result, and both an idea and a reality. People
often use the words "architecture" and "design" interchangeably, which naturally
broadens the definition of architecture. If you can "design" your own career
goals, aren't you the architect of your own life? It seems there are no easy
answers, so let's explore and debate the many definitions of architecture and
what architects and social scientists call "the built environment."

7. Definition of architecture
 In the dictionary we find the definition : “The art and science of
designing and making buildings”
Cambridge dictionary
 As defined by Roman architect Marcus Vitruvius In his 10 books,
architecture is a building or object that is structurally sound, functional,
and beautiful. Or “firmitas, utilitas, and venustas”.

8. Definition of architecture
Firmitas :
The most elemental of Vitruvius’ principles is that architecture needs to be
structurally solid, whether it’s a store, college dormitory, music amphitheater, or
gas station. To be considered architecture, they must be robust enough to cater
to an event or allow for the execution of a certain activity, as well as provide
shelter from the elements.

9. Definition of architecture
Firmitas :
The Colosseum in Rome has stood since before Vitruvius’ time and is an
excellent example of Firmitas. It has withstood the test of time, has provided a
venue for events, and is beautifully detailed.

10. Definition of architecture
Utilitas
If architecture is more than buildings, where does the definition stop?
Wherever you go, whether it’s your apartment, house, office, local coffee shop,
airport terminal, or train station, all of these structures are architecture. As
magnificent or mundane as they may appear, each was designed and created to
meet the end user’s functional need. The listed structures are pretty easy to call
architecture as they are all buildings of some sort featuring walls, a roof, and
maybe a door.

11. Definition of architecture
Utilitas:
Let’s look at something more abstract, like Central Park. Is it architecture?

12. Definition of architecture
Utilitas:
Let’s look at
something
more abstract,
like Central
Park. Is it
architecture?

13. Definition of architecture
Utilitas:
Let’s look at something more abstract, like Central Park. Is it architecture?

14. Definition of architecture
Utilitas:
Let’s look at something more abstract, like Central Park. Is it architecture?
In this seemingly natural environment, every trail, tree, rock, and pond in Central
Park is intentional. Created by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1858, this park was
designed to give users the feeling of being immersed in nature. This designed
and managed beauty is no less evident in Central Park than in a skyscraper
around the perimeter of the park. The park meets Vitruvius’ criteria for
functionality and can safely be considered a work of architecture.

15. Definition of architecture
Venustas
The beauty of architecture, like in any other medium, is subjective.
As someone who has presented projects to juries of my peers, believing them to
be the perfect solution, I have also left meetings shocked that the audience did
not see the idea in the same light. To critique a building and say whether it is or
is not beautiful is difficult as everyone has their preconceived notion of beauty.
Venustas can be found in small seaside fishing villages and in a modern
apartment building that gleams like a gemstone in the sunlight.

16. Definition of architecture
Venustas
There are architects who take buildings, windows,
walls, and doors beyond the subjectivity of beauty and
create an architecture that is art. Rem Koolhaas' Casa
Da Musica is an object in a field, playing with positive
and negative space in its slanting, angular facades.

17. Definition of architecture
Venustas
The same is true of Frank
Gehry’s Guggenheim
museum in Bilbao, Spain. Its
sculptural form glitters in the
old port city next to the river.
These two buildings are just a
few of the magnificent works
of architecture that exemplify
Vitruvius’ idea of Venustas.

18. Definition of architecture
Venustas
The same is true of Frank
Gehry’s Guggenheim
museum in Bilbao, Spain. Its
sculptural form glitters in the
old port city next to the river.
These two buildings are just a
few of the magnificent works
of architecture that exemplify
Vitruvius’ idea of Venustas.

19. Thank you for
your attention