Norm Architects’ Post

How did ancient architects achieve impeccable sound? The evolution of acoustic design offers fascinating insights into this question, transitioning from natural acoustics in ancient Greek and Roman theatres to sophisticated soundscapes in today’s auditoriums. At the heart of my fascination for ancient acoustics lies the "Theatre of Epidaurus" in Greece, renowned for its exceptional sound clarity without the need for "modern amplification". The ancient Greeks utilised geometry and materials in ways that seem simplistic - yet are profoundly effective. For example, the Theatre of Epidaurus, constructed in the 4th century BC, showcases an exceptional use of circular design and stone materials. The curved rows of limestone seats help to scatter and reflect sound waves, allowing even the faintest whisper from the stage to reach the distant spectator clearly. Limestone, in particular, proved to be an excellent material for this purpose as it absorbs low frequency sounds (which can muddle speech) while reflecting higher frequency sounds, which carry the clarity of speech. While today’s architects have a broader technological toolkit, the core principles remain consistent: understanding how sound travels and using materials and shapes to enhance, rather than inhibit, this journey. Reflecting on these practices prompts a question; How can we blend ancient wisdom with modern innovation to design spaces that truly resonate with their occupants? As we continue to explore and apply these enduring principles, we honour the legacy of our ancestors while pushing the boundaries of what’s acoustically possible in our buildings. What are your thoughts on the balance between traditional and modern acoustic techniques? Have you encountered spaces where this balance is achieved perfectly? #Acoustics #Architecture #DesignByDaniel

The essential Venice of Carlo Carrà... Having gone through the avant-garde experiences of Futurism and Metaphysical Art, he was one of the best Italian painters of the first half of the 20th century and later. Albeit less known than other works, his cityscapes or sketches of Venice are not few and recurrent over time. Below, from left to right and top to bottom, just four oil paintings: “Venice” (auctioned in 2012, presumably in a private collection; 1907); “Venice, Le Zattere” (auctioned in 2018; 1947); “San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice” (private collection?; 1926); “Canal in Venice” (Kunsthaus Zürich, Switzerland; 1926). All this production is aimed at capturing an essentiality of the forms of the city on the lagoon, both environmental and monumental. The last view in particular, though, contrasts with conventional ones of Venetian canals. It shows how a modern architecture, in this case moreover utilitarian and banal, can violate the context of a centuries-old beauty, which isn't only natural but also cultural. Actually, it's almost a miracle that Venice, ultimately the fruit of a prosperous but enlightened mercantile society, survived the age of industrialization without too much damage or alteration. And, why not, a lesson for our present too.

🟪 Form in design is not just the outward appearance of an object; it’s the foundation that shapes its perception and functionality. It plays a crucial role in creating visual harmony and conveying meaning. From ancient sculptures to modern architectural masterpieces, form has always been a medium for expressing ideas, emotions, and cultural values. 📜 On my Patreon, I explore how form has transformed over the centuries and why understanding its evolution is so important for contemporary designers. By grasping how the great masters of the past used form to create their works, we can gain deeper insights into applying these principles in today’s world. Join the conversation and discover new dimensions of art and design! 🔗 The link on my Patreon http://surl.li/wibubm #PersonalBrand #ProfessionalGrowth #GraphicDesign #HistoryOfArts #SorryMumIAmGraphic

Stunning! The design and architecture of hotels play such a crucial role in shaping the guest experience, even for those who might not consider themselves experts in the field. Imagine stepping into a hotel lobby and feeling instantly transported by the elegant curves or geometric shapes around you. But why does this matter for the average hotel guest? Well, imagine waking up in a room where every angle and detail has been meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of tranquility and beauty. The space around you influences your mood, your comfort, and even your perception of quality. The layout of the hotel, the placement of furniture, the flow of spaces—all of these factors contribute to a seamless guest journey. Whether you're checking in, relaxing in your room, or exploring the common areas, thoughtful design ensures that every interaction feels intuitive and enjoyable. Well done, Roca! #hotel #architecture #design #boutiquehotel #luxury #lifestyle #experience #guestexperience #guestjourney Hotel Designs BLLA - Boutique Lifestyle Lodging Association #interiordesign

“What comes to your mind when you think of the 1920s? For most people, the 1920s conjures up images of jazz, flappers, Old Hollywood, the Great Gatsby, and the Chrysler Building in New York City. It was a time of prosperity, exorbitant spending, and entertainment that gave rise to one of the most popular decorative #arts and architecture movements — known as #ArtDeco. Characterized by exquisite craftsmanship, lavish decoration, and rich materials, the style has become synonymous with the Roaring Twenties. So, what was the Art Deco movement all about and what differentiates it from other major movements? Finally, despite its popularity today, what makes Art Deco so closely associated with the 1920s?" I have to admit I am one of those people who loves Art Deco. The Great Gatsby is my favorite book. It all speaks to me in a positive way. Speaking of speaking a fun activity that students enjoy when on a #museum visit is to have them imagine what the subject in an artwork might be saying. Hand out papers with an image of the piece they are viewing. Each page will have a blank speech bubble on it where students can write their imagined dialogue. Art Deco pieces are a good place to start this activity because they usually have clear images that are somewhat familiar to most students. The best part is hearing the dialogue students imagined along with their rationale for it. Have you ever done this activity before? How did it go? What did you learn by doing it? I encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments. #MuseumEducation https://lnkd.in/gcGbNu2R

Venturing into 'The Space of Light,' the latest creation by Tadao Ando, one finds a profound kinship with his famed 'Church on the Water' in Osaka. Yet, this new work stands alone, its distinction carved into the very concrete that shelters it—a cross, not simply cut but charged with the intensity of the spiritual experience it encapsulates. The force of this space is in the stark cross-shaped perforation in the concrete roof, a testament to the power of architectural symbolism. But the experience, potentially, is even more arresting. Standing within this sanctuary of geometry, where light cascades from the heavens, sketching the divine with each ray, one cannot help but feel transported to a realm of contemplation, as if donning the very habit of a monk in prayer. This space exudes a scent, likely the musk of its raw concrete, yet it conjures a celestial fragrance, as if the light itself were infused with the essence of the sky. As one transitions from the hallowed darkness into the embrace of light, the echo of their own footsteps seems to merge with a silent invocation for deliverance: 'Lead us from darkness into light.‘ In this moment, Ando's architectural lexicon—both austere and eloquent—transforms a physical space into a profound experience of meditation and atonement. It is an extraordinary moment where the language of architecture does not merely speak; it transcends, creating a space where light does not simply illuminate but elevates the very act of spiritual reflection.

In Andratx, Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain, what was once the largest chicken farm in the island chain, has adapted and been repurposed into an art gallery and cultural center. The original chicken coops on the property were converted to an art gallery, studios for visiting artists, and a theater. The main house on the property, which is over 300 years old, has been recently restored to be rused again as a space for visitors to stay as well as an office to oversee everyday activities on the property. The primary structure has been refurbished with the original materials used to build the home, leaving them exposed for a stronger connection to the historic prevalence of the property. An important part of the project was recycling and reusing as much of the original structures and materials as possible. The designers were able to repurpose old furniture, original stone and glass found around the site, and repurpose it within the renovations. Historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects such as this, bring new life and meaning to historical sites while also making sure they are maintained in the long term. While redevelopment can be carbon intensive, it is significantly less damaging than new construction overall. We’re all in this together #sustainability #sustainabledesign #sustainablearchitecture #architecture #architecturaldesign #adaptivereuse #restoration #historicpreservation #recycledmaterials #recycle #design #art #artgallries #culturalspaces #design

The Golden Ratio: The Secret of Beauty and Balance in Art and Architecture The Golden Ratio, also known as the “sacred ratio” or “divine proportion,” is a mathematical ratio of approximately 1.618. It represents a relationship where the ratio of the larger part to the smaller part is the same as the ratio of the whole to the larger part. Throughout history, many artists and architects have used the Golden Ratio to infuse beauty and balance into their works. Some of the most notable include: 1.Leonardo da Vinci: He used the Golden Ratio in his famous works like “The Last Supper” and “Mona Lisa” to achieve unique balance and harmony. 2.Filippo Brunelleschi: The Italian architect who incorporated the Golden Ratio in the design of the Florence Cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore. 3.Le Corbusier: The French architect who employed the Golden Ratio in many of his buildings, believing it added beauty and harmony to his designs. 4.Salvador Dalí: The surrealist artist who integrated the Golden Ratio into his paintings, such as “The Sacrament of the Last Supper,” to achieve visual balance. 5.The Parthenon in Athens: Many researchers believe that the design of this ancient monument is based on the Golden Ratio, highlighting its beauty and symmetry. The Golden Ratio is not just a mathematical concept; it is a symbol of beauty and harmony found in nature, art, and architecture. Its influence persists in contemporary designs, testifying to its timeless significance. #GoldenRatio #Art #Architecture #Design #History #ArchitecturalEngineering #Creativity #LeonardoDaVinci #SalvadorDali #LeCorbusier #Florence #Athens #Parthenon #Beauty #Balance #Engineering #FineArt

"The Grand Tour: Unveiling Architectural Transcendence and Postmodern Playfulness" Journey back to the 17th and 18th centuries, a time when the Grand Tour became a Renaissance rite of passage, a gap year for the elite to traverse Europe. Aristocratic sons, accompanied by bearleaders, explored classics in situ, from Florence's Duomo to Rome's Coliseum, not just for education but for a transformative coming-of-age experience. Amidst stereotypes and debauchery, the Grand Tourers interacted with Europeans, encountering bold women and expanding cultural horizons. Jonathan Richardson's detailed accounts epitomize the cultural exchange, capturing the essence of marble sculptures and paintings. Returning with newfound cultural wealth, these Grand Tourers influenced British culture. Inigo Jones, inspired by European travels, designed iconic British landmarks, fostering Neo-classicism—a prolific architectural style. The Grand Tour's impact on classical architecture transcended borders, influencing landmarks like the United States Capitol Building. Fast forward to the 1970s, Postmodernism emerged as a colorful reaction to Modernism's elitism. Venturi's call for embracing architectural ambiguities and the ordinary influenced this movement. Postmodernism, marked by historical allusions and whimsy, challenged the architectural norm. The UK's response to the classical realm evolved, with Edward Lutyens introducing a unique English classicism. While Modernism and Postmodernism battled, the 1980s witnessed a shift to digital representation, exploring geometry's essence. However, architecture grappled with an identity crisis amid economic agendas and climate change concerns. In this complex narrative, the classical realm, whether European or English, becomes a battleground for establishing our imaginative existence. As we navigate the architectural cosmos, the question lingers: Are we taunting the ancient world or unveiling the profound meaning embedded in our creative journey? #GrandTourLegacy #PostmodernPlayfulness #ArchitecturalEvolution #CulturalInfluence #ClassicalArchitecture #ArchitecturalIdentity

Between Art and Architecture: Solo’s Pivot Door by Piter Gan. Solo, Indonesia, is home to a pivot door that captures the essence of its surroundings through the skilful hands of the craftsmen who carved this magnificent sculpture and its designer, Piter Gan. The elephant, a revered figure in Indonesian culture, is brought to life through this unique design, inviting reflection and admiration. FritsJurgens' System One plays a crucial role in realizing Gan’s vision, offering a silent yet robust mechanism that complements the door’s artistic ambition. Its integration allows the door to embody movement and meaning, turning the elephant motif into a dynamic narrative element. Discover the dynamic between art and functionality with System One via https://lnkd.in/eAnbTdE5 Designed by: Piter Gan Architect Hardware supplied by: SIMU Indonesia