Gina’s Blog INT 232

 Japan and Japanisme  Gina Christopher  Japanese design was influenced by Chinese design, but is distinct in its own ways. Japanese designs thrive in unbalanced shapes and lines, while Chinese design is more symmetric and axial. Japanese design also focuses heavily on small details. Think tea setups, flowers, lighting and gardens. There are so many small details that make this style be perceived as beautiful. Japanese design is based on two main objectives, religion and site. Religion is important in Japanese culture, specially the practice of Buddhism. In this case, this styles aims to create the simplicity and calmness of the religion in the style of design. This may be why we see so many horizontal lines and natural features. Both of those create a sense of a calm and stable environment. Furthermore, site has a huge impact on design in Japan. The geography is mountainous and full of wonderful views. This is why many Japanese style buildings have wrap around terraces, w...

Arts and Crafts  Gina Christopher  This week focuses on the transition from the Victorian period to the arts and crafts movement. “Victorian” literally refers to anything in the decorative arts and architecture produced during Queen Victoria’s reign. Durning this time there was a shift of the industrialization of society. There was a new focus and appreciation for  hand crafted products. Oak wood became a prominent building material and the clean simile style of the Japanese culture also made head way here. Simple, uncluttered designs  never go out of style.  My favorite architecture/furniture/ interior design  The Orchard Residence  This home was built for the architect himself. He designed a very simple exterior and interior plan. The house fit well into the local vernacular of farm buildings.  The Red House  This is a very significant Arts and Crafts building. This is a family house, but also an ongoing artistic work. The plan is an L shap...