Saturday, 14 May 2011

As2 - Structural Analysis

Through a unique structural system Le Corbusier expressed his five points of Architecture (Pilotis, Free Plan, Free Facade, Horizontal Windows and Roof Garden) in the Villa Savoye.

In understanding through my research I came to the conclusnio that the Pilotis are the most important structural feature in the building as they elevate mass which in this case are the floor slabs and it enables the free facade which is non load bearing and free in form and geometry, the same can be said for the opening and windows in the facades where longer than usual opening and uninterrupted openings are present in the building. It also enabled the free plan where walls are not structural or load bearing therefor there is a lot of freedom in terms the planning process and room layouts.
Structural System Isometric

Free Plan of Ground Floor

Free Plan of First Floor



The Pilotis and the Beams Elevating the Mass

Horizontal Openings

AS2 - Geometry/Proportion

"Man is the measure of all things" could well be Le Corbusier's drive behind his designs especially the Villa Savoye where it is built based on human ergonomics and the Golden Ratio which also relates back to a harmonic geometry in relation to the human body.

In my study of the Golden ratio in the Villa Savoye, I found out that the golden rectangle was used in openings throughout the facade, in room spaces and heights while the root 5 rectangle was the overall height of the building to the length. Squares were also being used for the pilotis, terrace and courtyards.

AS2 - Circulation Analysis


In the Villa Savoye, the Stairs and the Ramps are not just transitional tools but elements providing views that express the unique architecture of the building, they are located at the core of the house. Aside from that, they provide great views along when being used.
Stairs and Ramp Circulation
Ground Floor Circulation

First Floor Circulation

Second Floor Circulation