21.2 Lessons of Rome - Part 2 - Windows

Introduction

The study of Rome through architectural themes was an excellent methodology to look at the richness and diversity of the city. It also served as an opportunity to re-examine and further clarify the basic concepts that make architecture. The themes of windows, walls, rooms, courtyards, piazzas and porticos served as the stimulators for investigation and inquiry.

 

Windows

Openings in walls serve two fundamental purposes. They allow light into and order the interior space. Also they give organization to the wall belonging to the street or piazza. The conception of these openings belong to the basic categories with countless variations and combinations.

1. Blank windows give scale to the wall of a piazza or street.

2. Punch outs in a plaster wall.

3. Punch outs with partial or full frame added to the surface.

4. Punch out in a surface of scored plaster. Score marks signify spanning and opening.

5. Opening set within and articulated by surface finish of stone.

6. Opening becomes part of a bay organization set between pilasters.

The ordering of windows on a façade is generally achieved by the regularity of spacing, along with the devices of spring coursing and pilasters.

1. Regularity of spacing and opening type.

2. Opening set on a spring coursing.

3. Pilasters become primary ordering device with windows a part of the bay divisions.

Proportion of openings.

The primary openings generally take on verticle proportions and are of a ratio of 1:2 to 2:3. Secondary or minor openings take on square proportions.

Reprinted from
Bertram Wong

7 September 1982

USC Summer Program in Rome
(all sketches copyright  Bertram Wong, no reproduction without permission)

See

Part 1 - Experiencing the City

Part 2 - Windows

Part 3 - Construction of Walls and Openings

Part 4 - Rooms

Part 5 - Courtyards

Part 6 - Piazzas

Part 7 - Porticos

Part 8 - Conclusions

Jiwa Studio

Singapore, February 2012
http://jiwastudioweb.blogspot.com/