BP # 7

According to Debotton there is a such thing as an architecture of happiness. I believe that architecture of happiness varies depending on the person and their personality. To me, an architecture of happiness would be defined as a place to relax and escape the "stresses" of life; a place that I feel comfortable in and reflects the beauty of nature. In class, we discussed the Eastern and Western rule book. For them comfort and relaxation was expressed through harmony and order in all things. By having a place that was unified and in order they could relax because they had an escape from the chaos of the outside world (inner peace). They emphasized spiritual connections through ornamentation which also provided them with the sense of comfort and protection; by including their family's history and ideals they gained a sense of comfort that can be understood by all (family is like a security blanket). Their view on expansion was appreciating and celebrating the little things and seeing the value in them which is what a happy space is all about; the small things in life that give us joy. Looking at a small area may not seem like much but once you open up your mind to see the little things it possesses, then you can appreciate every little detail and that makes you happy with that particular space or place. 

One place that I love to visit in my down time is the circular stacks area behind the dining halls. I always go sit outside when the sun is shining brightly and the air is gently flowing. The temperature is just right; it's not too hot nor cold. I go to enjoy a study session or just eat and talk with my friends and it brings a sense of joy and comfort. It's so relaxing to observe other people laughing, dancing, or just walking by with their dogs. You can really see the joy in everyone enjoying time with friends and it's such a wonderful sight. Also, you're able to experience the beauty of nature in all the different trees, and squirrels running around playing and even the sound of the fountain flowing.  

*Continue to layer groves and stacks - stairs and sitting/performing area is all stacked.
*Strive for harmony + order in all things - the whole structure is unified in stacks and material; very balanced.
*Place community needs before your own - I feel this place was designed for the pleasure of the students; for them to hang out and perform events.
*Emphasize surface through materiality - The center circles are the main attraction of this structure therefore, they are in the middle, and circular whereas, it's rectangular on both sides. And also, the center contains a fountain and the tops are covered with the brick (sides covered by grass).


My favorite space on campus is the large tree with the tree swing inside. Although, I never swing on the tire it's a really nice space to go to just to get away from the "stresses" of college and catch up on quality alone time on a nice day. It's quiet, so if you wanted to read a book or just enjoy a nice, quiet afternoon by yourself (surrounded by nature) it's the perfect space for it.

 

*Continue to layer groves and stacks - On the inside the tree branches create a stacked/layer look.
*Emphasize surface through materiality - The bottom is all dirt and you can sit higher up on the branches; I think this shows difference in the space through materiality. In addition, it's surrounded by leaves. 
*Place man at the center - This is shown through the branches in the center that has a tire swing connected. 
*Strive for position through patronage - This tree shows that because not only is it tall it's also, wide and bush-like which makes it more more noticeable than your average tree.