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From Object to Field:

As architects, it is important to understand the relationship of the object and field. Design requires combining different elements into a group that enhances the qualities of each element in a cohesive manner. This can be done though the practice of identifying the field at play, the objects forming the field, and how their qualities are maintained and elevated in the field.

Geometric vs. Algebraic Combination:

Designs can change overtime, especially as additions are made. From the reading, two frames of mind arise. The first is geometric, which has a focus on shapes and lines to form proportion and ratios within the structure. The structure is made with different units are arranged in proportion with one another. The other is algebraic, which focuses on the additions as separate parts that makes up the whole. The structure is made up of repeated units.

Walking Out of Cubism:

Architecture is meant to provoke deeper levels of meaning in its design. Meaning is created between the relationship of the design with the occupant. Styles of architecture such as cubism and minimalism based their designs on where meaning was found in the design. Cubism showed meaning through the structures decoration while minimalism focused on the layout of the space to define meaning. As architects, the design’s meaning is only strengthened when focus is put on the relationship of design and the viewer. These different designs styles are emphasizing the different relationships the viewer has with a structure.

Thick 2D:

With an understanding of field, the relationship of the figure and ground model gains a new meaning. A once two-dimensional depiction begins to gain another dimensionality to it. The solid areas become locations of great intensity while voids become low intensity pockets. This becomes apparent with the moire effect when two fields are imposed on each other. Areas of the greatest intensity become a connecting point for the two fields.

Flocks, Schools, Swarms, Crowds:

The difference between crowds and flock is seen in their reason behind their formations. The crowd begins with a given field which is then expanded with similar individuals. For example, neighborhoods tend to be made of small homes while the downtown contains larger structures. Similar buildings gather around each other and expand creating small regions/crowds in a town. Flocks begin with a group of individuals and a field is created based on the interactions of the individuals. Flocks are more fluid in their ability to change to their surroundings due to the individual’s relationship to its neighbor.