Architecture Photo Journal | Dnyart Architecture

Architecture in New York City: Form and Function

Requirements: 6 or more images, each with accompanying text. 400 or more words (total)

OPTION I: Manhattan

"Visit" one of the following buildings and write a DESCRIPTIVE PHOTO essay*

Take as many photos/screen shots as are necessary to give a clear idea of the structures (various angles, detail shots, etc.)

Read "Introduction to Architecture" (please cite)

Read "Definition of Architecture" ( please cite)

Please include at least one architectural map

(check syllabus for due date)

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine (Amsterdam Ave. at 112th St.: C, 1, B to 110th)

*St. Patrick's Cathedral (5th Ave at 51st St.)

The Eldridge Street Synagogue 12 Eldridge St. btwn Canal and Division: (B,D, to Grand Street Station or F to East Broadway)

*Grand Central Station (Lexington Ave. and 42nd St.: 4,5,6 to Grand Central)

The Chrysler Building (Lexington and 42nd St.: 4,5,6 to Grand Central)

*The New York Public Library (5th Ave. and 42nd St.: 4,5,6 to Grand Central)

The GE Building (formerly The RCA Building) Rockefeller Center 50th Street and 5th Ave. (E to 5th Ave; F to 47-50th St)

*The Guggenheim Museum 5th Ave at 89th St (4,5,6 to *6th St.) free Sat evening, otherwise must pay

The Sony Building 54th St. and Madison Ave. (E to 5th Ave.; 6 to 51st St.)

The Hearst Tower 57th St. and 8th Ave. (E to 7th Ave.)

The Oculus at the World Trade Center (E to WTC)

The Morris-Jumel Mansion 65 Jumel Terrace (A/C to 163rd Amsterdam)

* Virtual Tour Available

OPTION II: Your town or neighborhood

"Visit" a building of interest near you and write a DESCRIPTIVE PHOTO essay*

Take as many photos/screen shots as are necessary to give a clear idea of the structures (various angles, detail shots, etc.)

Read "Introduction to Architecture"

Read "Definition of Architecture"

Please include at least one architectural map

Questions to be addressed within your essay:

Who were the architects?
What are the buildings'/sites' functions?
How do the over all designs (form) reflect that function? For example:
How does a person/people move through the spaces (where are the main thoroughfares, exits, entrances?)?
Are the spaces designed for speed? Efficiency? Quiet reflection?
How do the materials used relate to the form and function of the buildings?
How do the buildings relate to the physical site and surrounding environment? Do they contrast? Harmonize?
Do the buildings refer to historical architectural styles? Which styles? Describe the main visual components of those styles and aspects of them found in these buildings.
Show and describe some of the buildings' details.
Is there a sense of symbolism in any aspects of the designs? Explain.
Do the overall designs express the emotions and values of our culture when it was built? Now? Explain.