21.4 Lessons of Rome - Part 4 - Rooms

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.

Sunlight from the occulus of the Pantheon

Rooms

The room (a contained space) is given its individual qualities through its configuration, enclosing edges, scale, proportion and the way light is admitted into the space.

Pantheon

Pantheon – a multi axis circular plan. The conception of the wall is as a solid with spaces carved into it and aedicules added to it.

The system of proportion is based on inscribing a sphere within the domed cylinder. Light is admitted only through the large oculus at the center of the dome.

San Andrea al Quirinale

San Andrea al Quirinale – An ellipse in plan with only one focus in the direction of the short axis. The conception of the wall is that of a solid with voids carved into it.

The system of proportion is based on inscribing an equilateral triangle within the dome and long axis. Light is brought in through the lanterns and above the cornice line through the sides of the dome.

St. Ivo

St. Ivo – The plan is based on the intersection of 2 equilateral triangles. The conception of the room is that of a void carved out of a solid. 

Villa Farnesina

Villa Farnesina – The porch, a rectangular room oriented toward the garden. The conception of the wall along the edge “A” is that of an open screen visually connecting to the garden beyond. “B” edges are solid walls with doors set into them. Wall ”C” is a painted wall where the depth is given to the space by perspective frescos of niches.  The proportion of the section is based on a square to the spring point of the 2 arches.

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/