self-reflection

1. This course has opened my eyes to design. Before I would have only noticed if it was a pretty building, space or object. However by taking this course, I notice whether the building, space or object is well designed and useful for the everyday life. I think to myself, is it a safe place or object, what is its purpose, is it functional and so on. By taking this course I have a better understanding and appreciation for design and all aspects of design. When designing for projects now and for later tasks, I have the knowledge of different characteristics I may incorporate in my own design.

2. Le Corbusier is a well-known designer and architect. He is best known for his modern outlook on design and protecting the environment. One of his most famous is Villa Savoye. Modernism can be seen all throughout the building. It is free of a structure frame. Bands of windows wrap around the structure to allow as much natural light possible. The building does not sit on the ground, which allows for an open area that is covered for outdoor functions and is weather protected. The roof is where the actual landscape appears. This is where green design comes into play. We as designers and architects still are trying to bring modernism and green design to the world. Slowly but surely it is making its way to a new way of designing for the 21st century.



3. Even though we seem to always turn back to the past when it comes to designing, there are innovative methods to all past designs. Today, the big “thing” is going “green”. With green products one can get recycled products that sometimes feel but definitely look like the real thing. Hardwood floor is a good example. Real hardwood floor is bad for the environment by depleting natural resources. By using recycled hardwood floor there is less tree’s that are cut down. Although “going green” is great for the environment, not everyone is so keen on it. Changing the way a person lives or does something is a very difficult undertaking. People today still do not accept change very well. But when a new idea comes about such as “going green” it takes years for people to understand and appreciate what has been done and or will do.



4. Educations in the 1950’s and the 1960’s have had a large influence in the way students are educated today. During the 50’s and 60’s disabled children were allowed to attend school. Currently, they are allowed in public schools and treated like any other student. Desegregation was just beginning in the 50’s and 60’s allowing African Americans to attend the same schools as white children. In today’s world one may see many different races in a school. Back then more people were starting to attend school. The GI Bill had been created allowing veterans to attend college paid by the military. Today this still stands and even more people are attending college. In college today age, race, or gender does not matter.