The Tao of Architecture

Front Cover
Princeton University Press, Jul 21, 1981 - Architecture - 72 pages

In a contemplative essay that develops a parallel between void, space, time, and the science of vision in Laotzu's philosophy and in modern architecture, Amos Ih Tiao Chang reveals the vitality of intangible, or negative, elements. He writes that these qualities make architectonic forms "come alive, become human, naturally harmonize with one another, and enable us to experience them with human sensibility."


The author expands Frank Lloyd Wright's thoughts on the affinity between Laotzu's philosophy and modern Western architecture by discussing "Natural Life-Movement in Architectonic Vision," "Variability and Complement," "Balance and Equilibrium," and "Individuality and Unity." He accompanies his text with architectural drawings and four Chinese paintings.

 

Contents

II
3
III
11
IV
23
V
41
VI
59
VII
69
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Amos Ih Tiao Chang
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Amos Ih Tiao Chang
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Amos Ih Tiao Chang
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Common terms and phrases

achieve actual appears architect architectonic form architectural composition architectural space aspect asymmetrical form attributes axis of balance become building centroid CHAP color complementary concavity construction contrast and complement created creative forgetfulness defined definite effect empty space environment equilibrium existing in space experience expression factor factor of safety fragmentary functional space gible gives greyness growing growth harmony horizontal human individual forms infinite intangible content integrated interpretation Laotzu Laotzu's idea Laotzu's thinking life-quality light limited lively loading man's visual manifested means mental mind natural negative ness non-being non-existence normless obvious opposite passively perception physical confinement physical space position potential preserved principle psychologically reality relation relationship requires seen sequential shape similar simple solid forms strength of material structure suggests surface quality surrounding space symmetrical tangible axis Tao-te-ching temporal thing tion unique unity usually vertical viewpoint vision visual balance visual elements visual objects visual organization vital whole

References to this book

Bibliographic information

TitleThe Tao of Architecture
Princeton paperbacks
AuthorAmos Ih Tiao Chang
Editionillustrated, reprint
PublisherPrinceton University Press, 1981
ISBN0691003300, 9780691003306
Length72 pages
Subjects ›  › 

Architecture / Criticism
Architecture / General
Architecture / History / General
  
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