BP3: UNCG and the big ten

In class we have been discussing the Acropolis and the Xianyang Palace. We created a list of Ten ideas to further explore them. These ten ideas are: space, power, experience, principles, precedent, site, order, scale, technology, surface. When one combines this knowledge base with the campus walk that we took similarities and evolutions become very evident. The use of circles, stacks, and groups or groves is almost always in use, regardless of the time period the building was constructed.

Space

UNCG is designed, like any college campus, to promote education.  It is geared towards making a student’s life easier by providing all of the necessary resources within a short walking distance.  When all of the basic necessities are accounted for, it allows the student to focus on an education. 

Power

Campus life does not necessarily instill power in the physical sense, but rather power of the mind.  This comes through being able to fend for oneself without anyone’s help.  This sense of independence builds self-confidence and mental dexterity that will last a lifetime.  More than the lifestyle however, college provides for an invaluable education that, not only supplements independence, but is a major factor contributing to overall success down the road.  In the end, it is safe to say that UNCG is fully dedicated to the empowerment of its students.  Sir Francis Bacon once said, “Knowledge is Power.”  I’d agree.

Experience

  In class, we discussed the idea that only materials which were immediately available could be used for construction.  However, in this day and age where distance is no longer a factor for acquiring materials, I believe the general spirit of architecture has shifted from pragmatism to aesthetics.  Architects can choose whatever materials they please to give off a certain ambiance.  In this case, just about all of the buildings are composed of brick, stone, and glass.  The brick and stone are crucial to creating a monumental aura, while also giving a feeling of security to its patrons.

Principle

As a college campus, it is clear that an underlying principle behind the design is the relationship between students and the professor.  Though the professor is always situated at the back of the room (in relation to the doorway), this end is understood to be the ‘front’.  This idea in itself sets the professor up as an authority figure.  The students occupy the middle area, facing him, to hear the story.   

Precedent

Site

UNCG is located in Greensboro, North Carolina.  This appeals to me personally, mainly because this doesn’t give me too long of a commute.  Also, campus is not too far from downtown; this often comes in convenient when one wants to get off campus but stay in the vicinity. 

Order

I believe UNCG has a very ordered campus, primarily because, of its high utility.  By utility, I’m addressing the convenience and accessibility of resources.  First off, the dorms are all clustered together, putting an emphasis on socialization among the student body.  Going from the dorms, we find the student health center, the dining halls and the EUC, in that order.  The most important buildings are in the closest vicinity of the living areas.  Beyond that point are all the buildings where classes are held.  From this arrangement, it is clear that UNCG was designed with utility and orderliness in mind. 

Scale

Scale could refer to either the actual physical size of the campus or the availability of opportunities.  However, I feel that the physical aspect is more relevant to our cause.  Compared to an average-sized person, the buildings are quite massive.

Technology

 Evidence of technology is clear just about everywhere on campus.  Computers, vending machines, heck even cell phones change the way we experience campus.  Unfortunately, these things only serve to eliminate the human aspect by making things impersonal and artificial.  It is interesting, then, that something like a building could possibly bring this personal aspect back to the college experience.  On many UNCG structures, there is evidence of Greek influences, most obviously in the columns.  Columns are remind me of the Greek Titan, Atlas, who hold the sky upon his shoulders.  To me, this is a very endearing notion. It gives the viewer a sense of welcome as if the building is being supported just for you to enter.  Maybe I just think the world revolves around me, but whatever...

Surface

 The surface of campus is probably more horizontal than vertical for the most part.  These aren't skyscrapers; the buildings span the surface much more than their rise.