Shaping the architectural structure of elements of motion on the example of Atheneum in New Harmony (Indiana State, USA)

Zygmunt Szparkowski

doi:10.37190/arc200305

Abstract

The theme of the article is the shaping of the architectural structure by the elements of motion that form part of it. The aim is to describe an important aspect of architecture shaping, which plays an essential role in many design solutions. Motion depicts the way man moves and exists in the architectural space. It reveals the links of individual functional spaces, often remotely located. Without taking these links into account, architecture would become a collection of random elements, it would be chaotic and meaningless. Typically, architectural design begins with drawing up motion diagrams or tables of mutual approximation. The article is therefore intended to create a certain spatial imagination, which, in combination with preliminary sketches of functional links and approximations, allows you to create your own concept of space. The first part of the article used the construction method to review and analyze the selected motion elements. They are presented in the form of comprehensible graphic diagrams, with a brief textual justification. In part two, a comparative method is used. The elements of motion from part one of the study were compared and referenced to  ichard Meier’s New Harmony. This architectural object was chosen because of the well-known designer and theorist of architecture. Moreover, as highlighted in the study, these elements are the basis for shaping the exemplary architectural structure. Elements depicting motion usually take certain forms, which in the process of shaping the architectural structure retain their specific functions and identity. The information contained thereof, their geometric and ergonomic form should correspond to man. The shape is usually logical and is based on the fundamental elements of geometry. It should be noted that the principles discussed in the article are not widely used in the teaching of architecture and in architectural reality either.