Week 2

Identifying design elements and principles

Lines - the lines in this photograph are highly significant and vary within each element, while still maintaining a sense of harmony.

Shapes (geometric) - in this historic building, the Whitehouse places an emphasis upon geometric shapes which serve to dominate the majority of the building. However, I have focused my attention on the second-floor balcony with the cross shapes.

Direction of line - the UNSW campus in this particular section, utilises an uncommon combination of lines; the grate and the white lines decorated on the building all lead the audience’s eyes towards the main walkway which is also supported by the uneven path.

Size/scale - within this space, the tree grove aims to dominate the plane, which in turn, shows the size/scale of the site.

Texture - the corrugated iron shed of the Fig Tree Theatre is a perfect example of texture within this space as it provides an interesting dynamic shift from the surrounding brick and concrete buildings.

Colour - the orange strip serves as a focal point on the apartment block and creates a unique contrast to its concrete surroundings.

Balance - within this photograph, the balance between nature and manmade is present, creates a serene atmosphere.

Proximity - the tree grove is situated in close proximity to the urban landscape of the brick building, which is representative of the entire campus’ construction.

Alignment - alignment is an essential element within this space as it relies on both the natural and man-made structures. The tree, through its location and linear directions of the branches, softens the harsh geometric lines of the elevated student dorms. The dorms also accompany a sense of balance in its utilisation of symmetry and contrasting materials.

Repetition - similar to the balcony, the Whitehouse employs repetition and pattern to create an alluring boundary between their consumers and the general public.

Contrast - the rich in colour ping pong table creates an unparalleled contrast to its bland and characterless surroundings. Additionally, the table is a hive of activity on a daily basis while the theatre is only utilised by a select number of students from the NIDA faculty.

Space - the elevated section of the apartment block generates an unexpected shift in the dynamic, immediately formulating a compelling negative and positive space balance.