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Islamic Architecture, 2008.
An analysis of the ways in which Islamic architecture has influenced the architectural styles of other religions.
2,936 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the origins of the distinctly Islamic architectural style. The paper begins by discussing Islamic history and then goes on to discuss how Islamic architecture has set a standard for religious architecture that has influenced other religious groups and contributed to various architectural styles evident to this day. Additionally, the paper also discusses how Islamic architecture has more recently been influenced by the West, not for religious architecture, but for office buildings and residential units.
From the Paper
"In the Islamic tradition, the idea of the dome was developed with religious connotations. The first centralized Ottoman mosque was created at Diyarbakir in 1521 with four semi-domes and not mere vaults. The four corner areas are surmounted by four small cupolas, while the central dome is supported on four piers. This is the logical conclusion to the mosques of earlier times. The squareness of the mosque at human level represents earthliness, and the domes represent the heavens, much as the square and the circle do in Chinese architecture. The two-centered arch forms a spiritual limbo in the design. The interior is spacious and well-lit, another reference to the heavens (Goodwin 178)."
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Nathan Phillips Square Research Proposal, 2008.
A research proposal regarding the re-design and renovation of Nathan Phillips Square of Toronto's City Hall.
1,940 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper represents a proposal for research concerning issues to be addressed in the current re-design process for Nathan Phillips Square, the setting for Toronto's City Hall and an iconic work of modern urban architecture. The paper points out that this redesign process is in response to a consensus that has been reached by city politicians and leading civic officials that the existing design of the square was not only flawed in its multiple revisions over time since the original construction, but also no longer reflects the urban vision of 21st century Toronto. The paper concludes that qualitative research methods used to gain insights into the views of neighbours of the space towards the redesign project would be invaluable in determining who would be likely users of the space, how should it operate within the Toronto community, and the most important design elements of the project.
Outline:
Introduction
Literature Review
Methods
Conclusion
From the Paper
"It is clear that in carrying out this research into the redesign of Nathan Phillips Square it would be necessary to consult with a diverse range of stakeholders. One major insight from the literature review is that often one research method is inadequate to fully explore all of the issues involved in a project as complex and politically and socially sensitive as the redesign of Toronto's icon Nathan Phillips Square. Three methods would be particularly effective given the nature of the project: ethnographic/participant analysis, qualitative interviewing, and focus groups."
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Landscape: Emery Barnes Park, Vancouver, 2008.
This paper discusses the Emery Barnes Park, an area of greenery, water fountains and man-made structures, located in the Yorktown area of Vancouver.
1,420 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Emery Barnes Park is one of three parks in the downtown south region of Vancouver, which are intended to bring 4.5 acres of park space to the residents of the area. The author points out that the cultivation of the landscape matches the up-market culture of the region. The paper describes the elegant lines, modern architectural touches and elegant old-world stone structures, which characterize this landscape. The author relates that, despite some old world touches, the atmosphere of the park creates a feeling of modernism with its forward-looking view of the world, which focuses on reason, scientific rationality, creativity, progress and novelty. The paper states that the park is named for Emery Barnes, a longtime community activist who was chosen to represent the park because of his commitment to human rights and helping the disadvantaged, a big part of Canada's liberal cultural policy. The paper includes color photos.
From the Paper
"Perhaps many years ago the region may have been somewhat derelict, or at the very least ordinary: the urbanization of the downtown region has replaced some fairly seedy regions, which still exist on the east side of the downtown area. The park's structure is notable because it is very open. Residents in the area typically live in condos or apartments, and therefore have no back yard or natural space to enjoy. Emery Barnes Park therefore operates as a place of relaxation and enjoyment of both natural and man-made beauty. The green grass gives the urban residents the chance to walk on green lawn, bare foot if they wish to."
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Sidney Smith Hall Examined as Modern Architecture, 2008.
An examination of Sidney Smith Hall in Toronto as modern architecture in relation to two other buildings, Villa Savoye in Poissy and the German Pavilion in Barcelona.
1,250 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper approaches three examples of modern architecture that seem dissimilar at first, Sidney Smith Hall at the University of Toronto, the Villa Savoye near Paris, and what is known as the Barcelona Pavilion. The paper holds that despite their different purposes, they are similar structures according to principles of the modern movement. To conclude, it states that Sidney Smith Hall is significant in a Toronto environment much given to the preservation of architectural heritage, but that has often failed to appreciate its examples of the modern style.
Outline:
Introduction
Sidney Smith Hall, University of Toronto, 100 St. George Street
Villa Savoye, Poissy, nr. Paris 1920-1930 (Le Corbusier)
German Pavilion, Barcelona Exposition, (Mies van der Rohe)
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper
"As an example of the International Style much pursued by the modern movement, one realizes that the same structure with minimal adjustment could be placed anywhere. (See Khan 1998) Erected in any country in the world, Sidney Smith Hall would offer the same economy of line combined with a feeling of spaciousness and accessibility, its terrace areas suited to the climate of a central Canadian city as much as entirely different settings. This theme of universality was a favourite of both Mies van der Rohe and Le Corbusier as discussed below. (Padovan 45-48) As a contribution to the international style, Sidney Smith Hall may have shown its ongoing adaptability in the 2003 enclosure of one terrace that was opposed by some but does not seem to have altered greatly the sense of access the architect intended."
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Carlo Maderno, 2008.
An analysis of the significant innovations to the Baroque architectural style contributed by Carlo Maderno.
1,349 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the life and work of Carlo Maderno and his significant contributions to the innovation of the Baroque style. The paper notes that, before Maderno, many facades portrayed a Mannerist style that was often dense and without adequate spatial ornamentation. The paper further relates that Maderno's work influenced a whole generation of architects that sought greater details and more space for design to flourish in what was to become known as Baroque stylization. In essence, the paper analyzes the life and work of Carlo Maderno in relation to his architectural contributions to what has become known as the Baroque style in architectural history.
From the Paper
"Carlo Maderno (1556-1629) was an Italian-Swiss architect that had moved to Rome in 1588 to begin his career as an architect for the Vatican. The fist project of significance that he was contracted for is Santa Susanna. This project would be the foundation for his style, which would help to garner a greater audience with the Pope and his eventually work on the facade for St. Peter's Basilica. The first significant contribution that Maderno made in this structure is the use of more columns and pilasters that were placed in more numerous groupings in the center of center of the entranceway (Tosini 34). "
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Frank Lloyd Wright, 2008.
This paper discusses the architectural and societal constituents
of Frank Lloyd Wright's "prairie style" houses.
2,284 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that Frank Lloyd Wright is recognized as one of the most prominent and influential architects in American design. The paper focuses on his characteristic "prairie style" designs. The paper explains that, while Wright's work tends to be praised as unique, this assumption tends to discard the influences on Wright from antecedents found within other aspects of American design and architecture. The paper looks at how Wright in turn helped establish a legacy in design.
From the Paper
"Wright had established himself as a prominent architect in the late 1890s, and frequently accepted commissions for buildings that were purposefully selected to test his skills and to promote specific outcomes. While still in his infancy as a designer, the prairie style home was built at the request of the Ladies' Home Journal, a popular magazine that had sought out Wright and commissioned a home design. The Journal asked Wright to envision and execute the home of the future, one in which the resident would feel comfortable yet stylish. Prior to this, the Journal believed that the majority of American homes could either have one or the other; a dwelling that was clean and comfortable was quite frequently an eyesore, while the ostentatious homes of the wealthy were not conducive to the comfort of its inhabitants."
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Islamic Architecture, 2008.
A brief history of Islamic architecture.
1,518 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Islamic architecture is comprised of four main types of structures historically that have been dominant throughout its history. It looks at how these four types of structures include the mosque, fort, palace and tomb, all of which have undergone changes in architectural style, but that remained uniquely Islamic because of the symbolic importance that the Islamic people placed on elements of these structures. Noted architecture includes the Ka'ba, Taj Mahal and the Alhambra.
From the Paper
"The Ka'ba is considered to be the first true Islamic structure and it is identified as such in the Qu'ran ("Ka'ba"). The Ka'ba was erected in Mecca after Muhammed successfully gained control of the city. It was built expressly for prayer and is believed to be one place on earth in which every soul that enters it knows safety through God's presence. Muhammed dedicated the structure to Islam; however, it contained evidence of the most critical figures of the history of the time ("Ka'ba"). These figures were Jesus, Mary and Abraham. It was not until centuries later that the use of earthly forms would be forbideen in Islamic structures because of the belief that these structures were rerpresentative of God, not man. "
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The Negatives of Gentrification, 2008.
This paper argues that the negative consequences of gentrification should be considered before any changes to a site or a building.
1,994 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
The paper looks closely at "Fort Thunder", a community in Rhode Island that ceased to be a thriving artistic area when city-planners and architects decided that it needed to be brought more in line with modern aesthetic sensibilities. The paper maintains that those who are looking at "refurbishing" an urban site should take into account the history of the site and whether the changes will take away more from the local community than any structural improvements might give back to it.
From the Paper
"To begin with, it must be understood that the Fort Thunder community was not simply a meeting-place for local bohemian, artistic types; it was also an enormous milling operation at one time. To elaborate a little further, 1842 saw a gentleman named John Giles found Valley Worsted Mills on the location; the operation was one of the earliest worsted mills in all the United States. 1866 saw the impressive operation stricken by a catastrophic fire that destroyed the main mill. Despite this set-back, Giles immediately set upon building a new structure and the revamped mill site - now including further additions - soon became enormously profitable; indeed, by the 1890s it was producing 100,000 pounds of worsted yarn per month. Sadly for the employees of the mill, all good things must invariably come to an end and the twentieth century saw a gradual decline in the demand for the mill's products. In 1928, the American Woolen Company (which had taken over the mill in 1899) relinquished the property and the plot was (after three years had elapsed) sold to a local realtor who in turn leased the space to a variety of other businesses - including textile companies ("Eagle Square, formerly Valley Worsted Mills: History," para.1-3)."
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American Art, 2008.
This paper analyzes the American paintings and sculpture exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
875 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 31.95
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Abstract
This art study examines the American paintings and sculpture exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Arts in New York City. The writer notes that the exhibit is formulated around a three-fold objective: portraits, landscapes and sculpture for early American history. The writer maintains that by examining one piece from each of these sections of the exhibit, there can be a diversified analysis of how the pieces are placed into the overall framework of the museum. The writer concludes that these American art exhibits represent a historical view of early American history and stylistics.
From the Paper
"The historical perspective of this painting is recreated in a fictional pose for Washington and his solders as they cross the Delaware to surprise their British and Hessian enemy. This was an important point during the revolutionary war in which Washington gained a growing national and international support for the cause for independence. This aspect of the exhibition directly relates to the patriotic symbolism of the gallery, as it is representative of a collection that define American historical context. The painting is 149 x 255 inches and is placed within one of the large gallery rooms. The need for this is accentuated not only in its size, but for the centrality of its importance for the historical forum that the Metropolitan Museum of art is presenting. This painting is properly placed in the overall architecture of the northeastern part of the Met, since it allows a wide range of visibility and composure for the viewers to understand the crucial place this painting holds in American art history."
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Saint Peter and the Saint Peter's Basilica, 2008.
This paper discuses Saint Peter, his deeds and the architecture and symbolism of Saint Peter's Basilica.
2,230 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome reflects the acts of Saint Peter, serves as a model for all the great Churches in Italy and provides a deep historical and religious framework for Christianity. The author points out that Saint Peter is one of the most significant icons of the New Testament. The paper notes that the first Basilica of Saint Peter, finalized in 324 and which was designed in the form of a cross, became worn through the ages and reconstruction was inevitable. The author explains that reconstruction of the new Saint Peter's Basilica, begun in 1503, involved Donato Bramante, who implemented a Greek style cross design, followed by Antonio da Sangallo, who added the Baroque features to the interior, Michelangelo, who contributed his awesome dome, and Bernini, who designed in 1667 the square directly outside the Basilica.
Table of Contents:
Saint Peter's Profile
The Deeds of Saint Peter
Saint Peter's Burial
History of Saint Peter's Basilica
Architecture of Saint Peter's Basilica
The Deeds of Saint Peter Reflected in Architecture
From the Paper
"Jesus christened Peter with the name, Cephas. In translation, Cephas means 'The Rock'. The inference of this name clearly describes the role that Saint Peter played as a primary leader during Jesus' life. As a disciple, Peter witnessed a great deal of miracles and promoted the salvation of Christianity through example. Along with apostles James and John, Saint Peter remained close to Jesus and advised him on many issues. Peter was present for many of Jesus' trials and miracles, documented as the main apostle at Jesus' transfiguration, the revival of Jairus's daughter from the dead and the Agony of the Garden of Gathsemane."
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The Seagram Building, 2008.
An analysis of the Seagram Building as a symbol of American capitalism.
2,666 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper critically examines the Seagram Building in terms of not only its aesthetic and technological factors but also with a particular emphasis upon its economic-political and social-cultural context. As is seen, the prominence of the Seagram Building lies as much in its extraordinary design as for the fact that it symbolized American corporate power in an era when the hegemony of American capitalism was unrivalled in the non-Communist world.
Outline:
Introduction
The Seagram Building and the Bronfman Family
The Seagram Building and the Prestige of Design
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Prior to the Seagram Building, the emphasis in American corporate architecture was generally on cost and function. Aesthetic values were a secondary concern, and the idea of creating a "signature" building was not part of the corporate mentality of the period. The Bronfmans would change all of this with the Seagram Building. Thus, in order to understand why the Seagram Building was built, we must understand that agenda of the Bronfman in funding the creation of a building that was intentionally designed to make a dramatic statement in the capital city of global capitalism."
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Cambodian Western Style Housing, 2007.
This paper analyzes the problems of developing western style housing in Cambodia, especially the urban areas of Phnom Penh.
4,050 words (approx. 16.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 109.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Cambodian government has begun to make vast improvements to westernize its housing system in terms of design and in distribution of land. The author points out that, while urbanization plays a vital role in free market trade and democratic governments, the lack of purchasing power, financial strength and the legal loopholes required to obtain a new home in Phnom Penh are problems for the general Cambodian population. The paper stresses that Cambodians, who were colonized by the French in the late 19th and early 20th century, are accustomed to the centralized living styles of French flats, which provide more communal areas; whereas, the American investors are insisting on implementing western style condominiums, which differ in the sense that the facilities provide more privacy and space.
Table of Contents:
Historical Background
The Need for Land and Growth
Culture and Foreign Investment
History of Housing in Phnom Penh
Cambodian Fiscal System
The Development of French Style Flats and Western Condominiums
Legal Requirements for Construction of Housing
The Cost of Living in the New Phnom Penh
Analysis: French Style Flats versus Western Style Condominiums
Conclusion
From the Paper
"It is evident that Cambodia has a distinct disadvantage compared to the rest of the Asian countries. Primarily, the remnants of war has left a poverty stricken country with the responsibility of re-shaping its entire government, providing education and health care to needy families and finding adequate professional workers to maintain a new democratic system of public administration. However, there are many advantages to starting over for Cambodia, as the United Nations and the United States have taken a great interest in the rebuilding efforts. With a new, open economy and sufficient developmental programs, Cambodia stands at a crossroads for change."
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The Castle, 2007.
This paper argues that the castle was the focus of the medieval town.
3,345 words (approx. 13.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 95.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that characterizing the medieval era as a period of barbarism ignores the fact that rebuilding a civilization after the fall of the Roman Empire was a laborious process. The author points out that despite this struggle, new urban centers emerged that would eventually become the seats of learning and progress during the later Enlightenment and the Renaissance. The paper stresses that the castle became the focal point of the major urban development because cathedrals and monasteries could never give the degree of military defense that could be provided by the castle. The author concludes that, towering over sprawling medieval cities, the castle was a visual architectural reminder that order and authority were a significant part of medieval life, both in keeping invaders out and keeping the citizenry in line with the interests of the city's elite.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Development of the Castle in the Medieval Era
The Castle as Symbolic Focal Point
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The castle projected an image of power and security that was not only a deterrent to attack but also a source of pride and security for the people who lived around the castle. The castle provided the impetus for urban growth, and that urban growth (through increased tax revenues) also provided the finances necessary to expand the scale and defenses of the castle itself. A feedback loop of a sort was established between the medieval city and the medieval castle. Urban redevelopment after the fall of the Roman Empire continued along these lines for a thousand years until the beginning of the Renaissance."
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Frank Lloyd Wright and his Prairie Style Houses, 2008.
This paper explores the architectural and societal elements of Frank Lloyd Wright's "prairie style" housing.
2,412 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 73.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses where Wright found inspiration for his ideas and techniques and how he enhanced and embellished these lessons to create his own unique style. The paper explains how the societal influences of his upbringing, as well as the Japanese design exhibit at the Chicago Exposition of 1893, profoundly impacted Wright's style. The paper describes his "prairie style" houses that shattered tradition and made architectural history.
From the Paper
"Frank Lloyd Wright, always a great showman and popularizer of his own architectural works, did nothing to discourage the legends and mythology surrounding their creation. From his writings, one can easily draw the implication that they sprang "sui generous", germinating in some kind of virgin birth from the mind and spirit of the great master himself. In fact, all of his brilliant innovative works, including his extraordinary Prairie Style houses, are built on a foundation that came before. They are the logical result of antecedents found in the architectural environment and society in which Wright was born and raised, and from lessons he eagerly learned. He was both a product of, and a contributor to, the dynamic and rapidly changing mid-Western society of late 19th Century America."
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Adolf Loos' Michaelerplatz, 2008.
This paper discuses Adolf Loos' building in Vienna called Michaelerplatz and why it was one of the most controversial constructions of its time..
2,345 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Adolf Loos' Michaelerplatz building in Vienna, completed in 1911, was one of the most controversial constructions of its time. The author points out that its distinctiveness is rooted in how the building reflects the fundamental dispute between its designer Loos and the prevailing economic, social and cultural powers of his time concerning the role of ornamentation in architecture. The paper reports that Loos argued that ornamentation was wasteful of wealth and labor, thus contested the sizable industries in Vienna that were dependent upon the continual renewal of the city's ersatz Baroque palaces for their livelihood. The author concludes that Loos' Michaelerplatz pointed the way towards the modernist preoccupation with functional over formal qualities that would ultimately come to shape the architecture of the twentieth century. The paper includes many quotations.
Table of Contents:
The Problem of Ornamentation
Loos' Michaelerplatz and Its Controversies
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Without the ornamentation of the window baskets, we can see that the facade of the top floors of the Michaelerplatz is remarkable for its sheer white surface. The windows are square incisions in the facade without decorative designs whatsoever. Indeed, the only things that may be considered at all "ornamental" in regard to the Michaelerplatz are the marble walls along the facade of the lower floors of the building. This marble differentiates the lower floors from the upper ones, and may be seen by some as a violation of Loos' views on ornamentation. This would be a mistake, however, for these walls are fully in keeping with Loos' overall theories on architecture and architectural materials.
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