N Y C   A R C H I T E C T U R E   O F F I C E

1 -    Syntax
Architects throughout the ages have contributed to the production of the language of architecture. As language architecture is manifested in the various systems of formal, structural, semiotic [ornament] and conceptual organizations that inform and/or govern the arrangement and distribution of space. By analyzing canonical architectural and urban structure[s] the student will develop an awareness and under-standing of the multiplicity of those systems of organization that lead to the various provinces of spatial composition, formal contrast and gradation, conceptual hierarchy and compositional [i]regularity inherent in the making of architecture.

2 -    Context
For purposes of discussion, specific buildings will be analyzed out of their context; that is, as abstract objects devoid of a direct relationship to site, geography or climate. The dependence of a building to its environment however will be considered of paramount importance. In this respect the student is encouraged to layer his or her understanding of the specific architectural principles under consideration with the perceptual and conceptual characteristics of place; that is, with orientation, qualities of light, views, signs and symbols, local history, etc. 

3 -    Space
Central to the study and appreciation of architecture space is the preferred agency of architectural expression.  The concept of space however is the least under-stood component of architectural production. Space has peculiar characteristics: it is container as well as contained and while not having the characteristic of form or frame-work for form it is the background that gives form substance. It is also the abstract that gives meaning to the particular. In the twentieth century space is the component of archi-tecture that has attained an unparalleled level of theoretical fascination and seductive-ness. Partly because of its  theoretical importance and partly because of its illusive conceptual framework we will concentrate on the various systems of building construction and planning, for any suggestion into the structure of space, by analyzing the changing quality of the wall through history.  We will also examine the historical significance of pictorial space and the artistic-aesthetic manifestations offered by the manipulation and administration of space. In short we will probe the history of art for any clues and suggestions into the paradoxical nature of one of the primary mediums of architecture.

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LECTURES:

FIRST MOVE
January 18.............................                
January 20..............................                  
PRIMARY CONCEPTS
January 23..............................                  
January 25..............................                  
REPRESENTATION
January 30..............................              
February 1..............................                  
CONCEPTS
February 6..............................                 
February 8..............................                  
FIGURAL / ABSTRACT 
February 13............................              
February 15............................                                    
PLAN AND SECTION
February 20............................                
February 22............................                                
COMPOSITION
February 27............................               
March 1..................................                     
BALANCE
March 6..................................                       
March 8..................................                           
BODY and TEMPLE
March 20.................................

March 22.................................                  

ON THE SURFACE
March 27................................                       
March 29................................                                         
NUMBER - BEAUTY
April 3.....................................                       
April 5.....................................                      

TYPOLOGY
April 10...................................                  
April 12...................................                  
CONTEXT
April 17...................................                  
April 19...................................                  
THE EUROPEANS
April 24...................................                  
April 26...................................                                  
URBANISM
May 1......................................                                           

May 3.....................................