Unit 2 Summary

The first example of scale in unit 2 which helped me understand design as an integrated practice was the powers of 10 project. Each of us were given a small square with an image on it and we had to recreate that image on an 8x8 piece of paper. It was interesting to see each square come together to make one large image. This showed me how objects that vary in scale can create a message when linked together. Another example where I saw the use of various scales was in Roman Architecture. Many of their architectural structures were vast in scale to accommodate the needs of the rapidly expanding empire. Not only did Romans do this, but many other cultures as well. Through this unit I came to find how many cultures express their faith through architecture, usually expressing it through a massive structure. In class we also discussed how certain buildings are build much larger than its surroundings so it can be spotted from far away in order to give some direction. On the University of Kentucky’s campus, Kirwan and Blanding tower really stand out and let whoever sees them know how far away they are from south campus. I do believe there is a connection between scale and the principles and elements discussed in unit 1. The elements make up the object/ structure which is either small or large in scale. We can apply the principles to scale in terms of whether or not the scale is balanced, unified, harmonious, or in proportion to one another. Perhaps emphasis could be placed on an object due to the contrast in scale of its surrounding objects. All designs can be described and analyzed by understanding scale. They are designed on a certain scale for specific reasons, and we can generally seek out why.

Here is each of our small squares making up one large image, showing how objects smaller in scale can relay a message when linked together on a larger scale. 

This is a photo of Kirwan and Blanding tower from a distance. This shows how buildings which are much larger in scale than the surrounding buildings stand out, giving a sense of direction.

The Colosseum in Rome was built very large in scale to accommodate its rapidly growing empire.