Presenter: Lindsey Barker, College of Engineering and Technology, Architecture & Engineering Design
Authors: Lindsey Barker
Faculty Advisor: Brandon Ro, College of Engineering and Technology, Architecture & Engineering Design
Institution: Utah Valley University
Architect, Christine Franck, proposes the idea, architects and future architects alike, should look to Andrea Palladio as “our master and guide” to understand classical architecture traditions. Franck suggests, “we should turn to Palladio himself as paradigm for education and practice today.” Palladio spent 16 years as an apprentice, learning the architectural craft, before designing his first building, the Villa Godi. During this time of study, he was able to learn the tectonics of building through hands-on experience. Historically students of architecture, like Palladio, would begin their education in architectural craft as a carpenter or stone mason, before given the opportunity to begin their own works. To follow in Palladio’s footsteps, architects must learn materials and methods through hands-on building. I propose to test this theory by building a small architectural model following the classical traditions. In my research, I will construct a Doric column, an entablature, and roof following the classical methods of carpentry. The result of this study should produce a greater understanding of building tectonics, materials, tools, handcraft, and construction of the post and lentil system. The education gained from handcraft and classical traditions is lost in most architecture school today. If Franck’s theory is correct, we should follow in Palladio’s footsteps and return architectural craft to education today.