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Paper prepared by Prof. Omar Hasan Kasule Sr. MB ChB (MUK), MPH (Harvard) DrPH (Harvard) Chairman, Institutional Review Board - KFMC
DEFINITION AND CLASSIFICATION
• Architecture is designing and planning buildings and not actually constructing them. It is both a science and an art. The architect follows what society wants to build.
• Architecture can be classified as domestic, religious, governmental, social, or industrial. Domestic architecture is for human dwellings usually for one family. Religious architecture deals with places of worship. Governments need buildings for administrative, military, judicial, or social functions. Social architecture deals with theaters, community centers, museums, libraries, educational facilities, etc. Commercial or industrial architecture deals with facilities for transportation, commerce, and industry.
• The architect is given clear objectives and limitations (regarding the site, cost, and esthetic considerations). He also can be creative and innovative but within the limits prescribed by the one who commissions him.
• The modern architect is concerned with the structure being built as well as the environment around it. He also must consider construction materials and the costs involved.
HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT
• History of architecture can be studied from old buildings (surviving or archeological) that show the styles of past communities.
MAIN PRINCIPLES AND PARADIGMS
• Architectural design is influenced by underlying beliefs in a society, economics, and technological factors. Beliefs may lead to building grandiose buildings to show power or to building simple functional structures. Building styles change with time and some have a very long lifespan.
• The distinction between theory and practice in archeology is not easy. Neither easy is the distinction between art and architecture. It is also difficult to distinguish between the beauty of art and the functionality of buildings.
• Architecture is such a practical and culture-bound discipline that developing a distinct architectural theory has not been easy. The three main elements of this theory are structural stability, adequacy of space, and beauty.
RESEARCH METHODS
ISLAMIC EPISTEMOLOGICAL CRITIQUE
ISLAMIC INTRODUCTION TO THE DISCIPLINE