Week 1 - Intro

Question 1

Who is the architect who designed the Villa Rotunda?

Answer 1

Andrea Palladio

• considered one of the best architects of all time
• the Shakespeare of architechture

Question 2

What type of person fit the target market to build a Villa Rotunda? and why

Answer 2

• a wealthy man who was not royal
• has stature and land
• meant to look intimidating/impressive but was made with cheaper materials where possible, ex. used local materials instead of marble

Question 3

Explain the design elements of a temple front and laggia on a Villa Rotunda. What is the purpose of these elements?

Answer 3

• mimics ancient Greek and Roman temples
• laggia; a type of portico (open air covered porch), unique in that it has 3 openings to interior
• from the porticos, wonderful views of the surrounding countryside can be seen, built on hills for better views

Question 4

define/explain: key design elements of the rotunda in a Villa Rotunda

Answer 4

• rotunda; a roof with a protruding central domed top, soars the full height of the main house
• house is symmetrical with a central, circular hall
• frescos; artist paints directly onto wall/plaster, saves money from lack of canvas
• trompe l’oeil; trick of the eye, paint/art style where objects appear to be 3D, less expensive than putting in real statues

Question 5

define/explain: key elements of Palladian windows

Answer 5

• three-part window composed of a large, arched central section flanked by two narrower, shorter sections having square tops
• roman arch atop central window
• some have a keystone atop the arch, which supports the structure of the arch

Question 6

define/explain: key elements of a grand stairway (Villa Rotunda)

Answer 6

• a trademark of Palladio
• elevates the noble level above the servant class
• servants enter from the bottom line and live below (damp and dark, less sunlight)
• literal and figuratively raises the higher class above the lower class