Part 1
Topic: Worldwide, the design and utilization of living spaces are intricately connected with the surrounding natural environment, encompassing diverse landscapes such as beaches, freeways, flatlands, and foothills. This symbiotic relationship not only shapes the architectural aesthetics but also influences the functionality, sustainability, and cultural significance of residential spaces across the city.
Citation 1
Banham, Reyner, and Joe Day. Los Angeles: The Architecture of Four Ecologies. Univ. of California Press, 2009.
This source explores the unique architectural landscape of Los Angeles through four distinct ecological systems. The text argues that the architecture of Los Angeles is intertwined with diverse ecological contexts - the physical environment, and the social fabric of the city. The evidence is descriptions of landmarks, urban planning, and historical developments. The strength of the source provides insights into complex dynamics that shape urban environments. A weakness is that it oversimplifies ecological and architectural complexities. Researchers might wish to learn about Los Angeles's architectural landscape and its relationship with ecological factors that intertwine with the built environments and societal trends.
Citation 2
Drexler, Arthur, et al. The Architecture of Richard Neutra: From International Style to California Modern. Museum of Modern Art, 1984.
The source reveals Richard Neutra's architectural evolution, tracing his transition from the International Style to the distinctive aesthetic of California Modernism. Neautra’s integration of architecture with natural surroundings connects with functionality and human well-being. The text presents a strong argument by revealing the case studies, Neutra's writings, and a rich understanding of Neutra's design philosophy and methods. A strength of the text lies in the examination of Neutra's contributions to modern architecture. There are no weaknesses in the source. Researchers will learn the broader cultural and social contexts that shaped Neutra's career and the perception of his designs.
Citation 3
Banham, R. (2022). The architecture of the well-tempered environment. University of Chicago Press.
The source explores the relationship between architecture and environmental control by delving into the subject matter by examining historical precedents and technological advancements in architectural design. The text's strength is that it provides a holistic approach by delving into architecture, engineering, and environmental science. A weakness of the source is its complexity, which may pose challenges for readers unfamiliar with the technical aspects of architecture and environmental control. Researchers engaging with these annotations will learn the intersection of architecture and environmental considerations.
Citation 4
Alexander, C., Ishikawa, S., Silverstein, M., Jacobson, M., Fiksdahl-King, I., & Shlomo, A. (1977). A pattern language: Towns, buildings, construction. Oxford University Press.
The source provides an overview of architecture and design patterns, offering an approach to creating livable spaces. The strength of the book is to design and promote a user-centric perspective. Weaknesses include the subjective nature of some patterns and the limited consideration of cultural variations. Researchers reading these annotations seek insights into the book's contribution to architectural theory, its methodological underpinnings, and its applicability across diverse contexts.
Citation 5
Pallasmaa, J. (2012). The eyes of the skin: Architecture and the Senses. Wiley.
The source explores modern architecture’s visual elements, neglecting the richness of other sensory perceptions. By arguing to create a more profound and meaningful architectural experience. The text's strength is that it has a diverse range of sources. A weakness includes an exploration of counterarguments or alternative viewpoints. Researchers will learn about the discourse on sensory-oriented architecture.
Citation 6
McHarg, I. L. (1994). Design with nature. J. Wiley.
The source reveals the integration of natural systems into the design process and sustainable and environmentally conscious approaches to urban and regional planning. The strengths of the text lie in its thorough examination of ecological principles and their practical application. A weakness is the approach could be overly idealistic or face challenges in implementation. Researchers will learn about ecological design and planning.
Citation 7
Neutra, R. J., & McCoy, E. (1960a). Richard Neutra. G. Braziller.
The source provides a comprehensive overview of Neutra's entire body of work, presenting detailed insights into his design philosophy, influences, and the evolution of his architectural style over time. The argument is to showcase Neutra's significant impact on modern architecture, by emphasizing functionality, and integration with nature. The text's strengths lie in its meticulous documentation of Neutra's works. A weakness within the source is the lack of critical analysis or exploration of opposing viewpoints. Researchers will learn about Neutra's architectural legacy, his design principles, and the context of modern architecture.
Citation 8
Yudina, A. (2017). Garden City: Supergreen buildings, urban Skyscapes, and the new planted space: with 308 illustrations. Thames & Hudson.
The source explains super-efficient and environmentally conscious buildings within urban landscapes. Yudina supports her arguments with evidence drawn from case studies, and architectural designs. The strength of the source is that it is well-researched and offers insights into sustainable urban development. A weakness of the source includes a limited exploration of counterarguments. Researchers will learn about the symbiotic relationship between urban spaces and green initiatives.
Citation 9
Gebhard, D., & Winter, R. (2003). An architectural guidebook to Los Angeles. Gibbs Smith.
The source explores the architectural landscape in Los Angeles. The primary argument is that there are diverse architectural styles and structures found in the city. The evidence is detailed descriptions, historical context, and visual representations accompanying the text. The source’s strength is understanding the architectural evolution in Los Angeles. A weakness of the source is the authors focus on descriptive elements rather than engaging in deeper architectural discourse. Researchers will learn about Los Angeles' architecture and gain a broader understanding of the city's environment.
Citation 10
Ross, Alex. “Richard Neutra’s Architectural Vanishing Act.” The New Yorker, 20 Sept. 2021, www.newyorker.com/magazine/2021/09/27/richard-neutras-architectural-vanishing-act.
The source discusses the evolution of architectural aesthetics and the architect’s role within society. Neutra argues that architects must maintain innovation with an understanding of human needs and environmental harmony. Neutra’s strengths lie in his ability to blend theoretical discourse with practical insights, offering an extensive view of the architectural profession. There are no weaknesses within the source. Researchers will learn about the philosophical architectural design by Neutra and the implications it has on society.
Citation 11
Correa, Charles. Housing and Urbanisation. Thames & Hudson, 1999.
The source includes a detailed description of the subject matter, outlining urban development, housing policies, and their socio-economic impacts. The text argues the complexities of urbanization, discussing issues like housing affordability, sustainable development, and community planning. The strengths of the text cover the relevant issues and its incorporation of diverse perspectives. Weaknesses within the text may include limitations in the analysis. Researchers will learn about urban planning and policy implications.
Citation 12
Galindo, Michelle. Mexico City: Architecture and Design. TeNeues, 2007.
The source explores the architectural landscape in Mexico City, offering detailed descriptions of prominent structures, urban planning initiatives, and design trends. It showcases the culture and innovations within Mexico City's built environment through imagery, blueprints, and historical context. The strengths of the source are the detail and the contextualization of architectural developments. Weaknesses within the source are an analysis of certain topics that could limit its usefulness for researchers seeking more nuanced insights. Researchers will learn how Mexico City's architectural and design history has changed over time.
Citation 13
Nurturing Nature With Architecture. (2019, June 6). The Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/articles/nurturing-nature-with-architecture-11559843286
Citation 14
Loos, Ted. “In Venice, Americans Explore Peace with Plastic.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 20 May 2023, www.nytimes.com/2023/05/20/arts/design/plastic-venice-biennale.html?searchResultPosition=4.
Citation 15
Perez, A. (2018, June 27). AD Classics: The Glass House / Philip Johnson. ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/60259/ad-classics-the-glass-house-philip-johnson
Citation 16
Saval, Nikil. “The Architect Making Conceptual Art out of Buildings.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 2 Mar. 2020, www.nytimes.com/2020/03/02/t-magazine/sou-fujimoto.html?searchResultPosition=9.
Citation 17
Prevost, Lisa. “Colleges Showcase Mass Timber, in Research and on Display.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 14 Mar. 2023, www.nytimes.com/2023/03/14/business/mass-timber-universities.html?searchResultPosition=18.
Citation 18
Margolies, Jane. “Corporate Landscaping Lets Its Hair Down.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 4 July 2023, www.nytimes.com/2023/07/04/business/corporate-landscaping-native-plants.html?searchResultPosition=29.
Citation 19
Margolies, Jane. “Corporate Landscaping Lets Its Hair Down.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 4 July 2023, www.nytimes.com/2023/07/04/business/corporate-landscaping-native-plants.html?searchResultPosition=29.
Citation 20
Doezema, Marie. “Could Architecture Help You Live Forever?” The New York Times, The New York Times, 20 Aug. 2019, www.nytimes.com/2019/08/20/t-magazine/reversible-destiny-arakawa-madeline-gins.html?searchResultPosition=5.
Part 2
As a child, I found myself fond of the many forms of architecture, it has always been a fascination of mine. I love delving into the details of structures, houses, materials, color usage, and more. Growing up in a neighborhood in Los Angeles filled with amazing architecture surrounded by nature and close to well-known structures designed by famous architects sparked my interest in the world of architecture.
My fascination with architecture deepened as I grew older and began to appreciate the cultural significance and history of architecture that is embedded in living spaces. I believe that architectural structures hold the beliefs, values, and aspirations of those who created them. Studying architecture was my passion and now it is an exploration of human expression. Architecture challenges me to critically think and question the natural world. I am filled with excitement to research a personal essay on the topic of architecture.
Having access to many architecture books at the University of Southern California architecture library, I found a variety of books that are beneficial for my research essay. One of which is a well-known book called Los Angeles The Architecture of Four Ecologies by Reyner Banham, this book is widely known in the world of architecture. I first came across this book in an architecture class I took this past fall semester. This book is a fantastic guide for people who want to see and visit the architecture throughout the city of Los Angeles. Los Angeles The Architecture of Four Ecologies is a theoretical book because of how the book reveals architecture. In terms of finding sources for my research, I wanted to find a scientific source that delves into the science of the natural surroundings and focuses on functionality and human well-being in architecture worldwide. An example of this is the source called “The Architecture of Richard Neutra: From International Style to California Modern”. This is an important source because it reveals evidence through detailed case studies, archival materials, and Neutra's writings.
My perspective on my proposed topic has been involved significantly. I initially came up with this topic due to the relationship, primarily through the lens of sustainability and aesthetics, appreciating how architectural design harmonizes with visually appealing and environmentally friendly spaces. As I explored my topic further, I came to the understanding that symbiotic relationships Are far beyond aesthetics and ecological considerations. This encompasses a broader aspect of functionality, cultural significance, and social dynamics within many communities throughout the world. I find myself compelled to review the technical aspects of sustainable architecture, but also the cultural and social implications of designing living spaces that are in harmony with the natural environment.
The research essay I am conducting will provide a comprehensive overview of factors that influence the design and utilization of living spaces, worldwide, including geographical considerations, cultural influences, and sustainability principles. It will delve into the history of architectural movements that prioritize a symbiotic relationship with nature and the organic architecture of Frank Loyd Wright, as well as contemporary architects.
The genre I would like to recognize is a personal essay. Throughout my essay, I hope to convey an emotional resonance to my essay topic. This personal essay will allow me to share my own experiences and observations that are related to built environments and their relation to natural landscapes. I plan on writing about houses that I have visited and then reflecting on the senses of serenity and connection to the surrounding nature that I feel when inhabiting spaces that integrate with the surroundings, or the cultural significance of architectural styles that are rooted in ecosystems. Incorporating elements of advocacy and urban planning well enhanced the effectiveness of my message in my essay. I plan to enhance a discussion within the context of environmental challenges, such as climate change and urbanization. I hope that my essay can spread a recommendation for policymakers, urban planners, and architects to promote environmentally, conscious approaches to urban development across the world.
I hope to convey an understanding of the complex relationship between livable spaces and the natural outside environment. I hope my essay inspires readers to reevaluate their perspective on architecture and urban planning. I hope that many recognize the impact that designs and decisions can have on both the environment and communities that live in these spaces. After doing some research with the sources, I believe that living environments can coexist harmoniously within the surrounding environments of these structures, and foster a sense of belonging and well-being for all inhabitants.