Ultimate Syntheses of Art and Science, Form

¶ … ultimate syntheses of art and science, form and function, are witnessed in the field of architecture. Even nomadic peoples have erected structures to keep themselves warm and dry or with which to store food. These early versions of architecture gradually evolved into the giant palaces of Egypt, the cathedrals of Europe, and the skyscrapers of the modern age. Architecture fascinates me because of its universality: buildings of all shapes, sizes, and functions are needed in every part of the globe. Throughout history, the field of architecture has encompassed a myriad of building materials, construction techniques, and engineering prowess. Architecture transcends both art and science, because it represents the ultimately practical use of both.

Architecture affects the way we live, work, eat, and think about our environments. Especially in urban centers, buildings become an integral part of the atmosphere, creating mood and meaning. The shape of a structure impacts how we feel about it; so too do the materials used. I find architecture so fascinating because it combines the principles of engineering and even physics with aesthetics. Buildings are functional structures that are artistically rendered.

My intellectual interest in architecture arose out of my appreciation for ancient structures like the temples of Greece, Egypt, and India. Innovations like the column and the arch forever transformed the ways in which buildings were designed and constructed. I find it fascinating that thousands of years ago, human beings possessed the geometric and engineering knowledge to apply to architecture.

After I learned about the ancient history of architecture, I came to appreciate even more the buildings that surround me. I devoured books on the evolution of architecture from ancient times through the Renaissance, Art Deco, and contemporary times. I would like to pursue a career in architecture so I can understand the principles of design and learn how to execute them effectively.

2. I am currently investigating the architecture program at ____ school/university/college. The program offers extensive training in traditional drafting as well as computer-aided drafting. I especially look forward to examining all the software available in the field. I am also keenly interested in the specialty of city planning; I believe that one of the most important jobs of a contemporary architect is to construct durable, safe buildings that complement and enhance urban environments. New buildings should be tastefully designed, well-executed, and built with quality materials. I don't believe architecture should be hurried as it is with track housing, which employs the cheapest building materials available without regard for durability, quality, or aesthetics. I believe that even within small budgets, architecture should be tastefully executed. While in a college program, I would like to explore the different forms of low-cost housing and building materials and examine the cost-effectiveness of various architectural techniques. Perhaps I will investigate means to transform the look and feel of urban and suburban living. In order to do this, I will need to learn about historical applications of architecture, the building materials most often employed, and to study the plans and budgets of major development projects.

With computer-aided drafting, I can also combine my affinity with digital media with my passion for architecture. I also intend to learn traditional drafting, which I have always found fascinating. However, computer-aided drafting can help the designer visualize in three-dimensional space, allowing for all sorts of variables that are difficult to envision when working with pencil and paper. For example, with computers, an architect can input geographical and climate variables that might affect the structure or materials used in a building. If an architect has a contract that calls for extensive creative input, the computer can be a valuable time-saving devise used to quickly experiment with novel design ideas.

A also hope to learn a lot about architecture as a business, including the relationship between designers and the construction industry; architects and real estate developers; and architects and city planners. This will be practical information that I can use to develop my career.

3. The philosopher Goethe once said, "Science and art belong to the whole world, and before them vanish the barriers of nationality." This quote directly relates to my vision of architecture as an artistic endeavor and inspires my ideals in the field. I believe that both art and architecture, like music, are universal languages. People from all over the world, whatever language they speak, can appreciate the nuances and uniqueness of the art and architecture of other cultures. While we might have certain predilections for specific architectural styles, it is still easy to appreciate the genius in all sorts of culture-or time-specific constructions. For instance, the pyramids of Egypt will never be duplicated on that scale in modern times but they continue to amaze people.