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✍️ - Blog #19

Over the past month, we had the opportunity to witness dozens of iconic structures. However two of the most iconic were the bookends of this trip, the Colosseum and the Eiffel Tower.

The Colosseum, a historical emblem of ancient Rome, stands as a remarkable example of classical architecture. In contrast, the Eiffel Tower is a testament to 19th-century engineering, featuring a distinctive iron lattice design.

Both structures hold immense significance for their cities, serving as visual landmarks that encapsulate the essence of each city's culture.

The Colosseum, with its rich history of gladiator contests and ancient shows, tells the story of Rome's past. On the other hand, the Eiffel Tower stands as a symbol of Paris's contemporary cultural vibrancy and artistic influence.

Both of these structures act as symbols for the cities and bring it tourists and visitors. Each year 6 million tourists visit the Colosseum and the Eiffel Tower has around 7 million visitors.

With that many visitors each year these structures play a pivotal role in bolstering the economies of Rome and Paris. The high volume of tourists translates into increased spending on accommodations, dining, transportation and local businesses.

Although the Colosseum and the Eiffel Tower represent distinct architectural styles and eras, both are integral to the narratives of their respective cities. They provide a tangible connection to the past, present, and future of these urban centers.

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #16 The Madrid Rio Park megaproject, supported by a substantial $15 billion USD investment, stands as a testament to ambitious urban transformation. Comprising various smaller projects, this endeavor has reshaped Madrid's city landscape.

Diverse recreational areas cater to various interests and age groups. From playgrounds for children to sports facilities and cycling paths for adults, the park promotes healthy lifestyles while fostering community engagement and social interaction.

Moving the highway underground addresses environmental concerns, reducing noise and air pollution. The positive impact on air quality and the return of native animals to the area are all positive benefits of the project.

I believe the $15 billion project is a good public investment because it improves the local climate, fosters community and elevates the city's quality of life.

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✍️ - Blog #13 Antoni Gaudi's aesthetic is characterized by organic forms inspired by nature, intricate details, and a unique blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. This distinctive approach evokes emotions by creating a sense of awe and wonder. Two notable structures are the Sagrada Familia, with its soaring spires and nature-inspired elements, and Park Güell, featuring vibrant mosaics and playful shapes.

Sagrada Familia is a basilica which combines Gothic architecture with organic, nature-inspired elements. The exterior features intricate sculptures and towers. despite not being complete its towering presence is hard to miss. The interior features large columns and bright stained glass windows. Collectively, it generates a sense of wonder.

Park Güell, Gaudi's playful aesthetic comes to life in a vibrant symphony of colors and shapes. The integration of natural elements like water and grass, enhances the connection between the architecture and its surroundings, fostering a sense of harmony and delight. 

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #12

While we explored the Dali Theater-Museum in Figueres, Spain there were many instances where Salvador Dali designed interior spaces that enabled and augmented the art. Two examples that stuck out to me was the Mae West room and Lincoln in Dalivision. 

The Mae West Room is one of the best examples of Dalí's surreal approach. The physical space, inspired by Dalí's 1934 artwork featuring Mae West, uses function elements to create her facial features. A love seat becomes the woman’s lips, a large curtain acts as her hair and even frames as eyes. The room is a prime example of surrealism, where art and architecture coexist.

The other piece that stuck out to me was Lincoln in Dalivision. Dalí's explores of the calculated viewing, and has created a piece that transforms depending on the distance you are from the piece. The interior space surrounding this masterpiece is designed to enhance the viewer's perception, creating an immersive environment that amplifies the surreal elements of Dalí's work.

These two pieces are just a few that show how the Dali Theater-Museum has interior spaces are deliberately designed to enable or augment the art. 

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✍️ - Blog #10 While exploring Fondation Maeght, there were numerous instances where I felt guided through moments, influenced and "primed" by the surroundings. 

One area that left a lasting impression was La Fontaine. This fountain immediately grabbed my attention, because of its captivating movement embodied within its sculptural design.

La Fontaine was meaningful to me as I felt it symbolized life's unpredictable journey. The fluid motion of the stainless-steel pipes is similar to the twists and turns of my own experiences. 

The pivotal moment when each pipe tips and releases water is similar to moments in our lives where we break down and release emotions.

This piece was brought to life by Pol Bury in 1978. It's not only a static sculpture but a dynamic one connecting both steel and water. 

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✍️ - Blog #9 In the Nice Meridia district, we discussed how the area is evolving and focusing on sustainability. There are many things the area is doing but three things stuck out to me particularly. 

First is the incorporation of innovative stormwater treatment and floodplain management. Building an elevated park in the floodplain and collecting storm water is an ingenious idea. The park not only adds greenery to the area and is a public space for gathering, it has a specific function to help manage the storm water. 

Changes to the zoning policies and urban design encourages more walkability in the Nice Meridia district. The plan to build grocery stores nearby residential areas is a very good thing. This not only allows local access to fresh produce but also contributes to reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation. The presence of nearby grocery stores also aligns with principles of sustainability. 

Lastly the area is very committed to creating a good bike infrastructure. They have redesigned bike lanes to include a concrete border that protects riders from vehicles. Increasing the safety of bike riders promotes using more eco friendly modes of transportation.

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✍️ - Blog #8 Looking back on my time in Italy, the Trevi Fountain was my favorite structure, I was amazed by seeing the real fountain in person that I had seen online and in movies for so long. The baroque architecture had incredible detail and grandeur. 

As for my favorite city I think that Florence would take the top spot. Offering a mix of not only history and art, but iconic structures like the Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and the Basilica of Santa Croce.

As for my initial travel goals, I'm thrilled to say Italy fulfilled almost every one of my goals. 

My first goal was to try new foods and I did try some new foods and drinks like red wine and tagliatelle but those items were not as adventurous as I envisioned with my original goal. 

My second goal was to expand my architecture photography and I am happy to say I was able to practice unique angels and capture iconic structures through the lens of my camera. 

My third goal was to engage in local conversation with locals and when I visited a grocery store in Florence I spoke only Italian. I asked the worker where to find the water, how she was and told her I was having a good day. While the conversation was quite basic I was impressed with my ability to have a conversation with a local. 

My fourth goal was to explore hidden gems and visit lesser known areas. I think I was able to accomplish this goal in Florence by seeking out local restaurants recommended to me from my sister that were authentic. I also accomplished this by walking around different neighborhoods and popping into different gelaterias and sampling those. This enriched my culinary experience in Italy and I am thankful I was able to try some hidden gems. 

My last goal was to participate in a local cooking class. Along with 9 of my classmates I learned how to make pasta in a 3 hour workshop. We learned how to make ravioli and fettuccine, this experience helped me connect with local culture of making fresh pasta and connect with my peers. 

In summary, Italy exceeded my expectations, providing not only unforgettable sights but great memories I will cherish for life. I know I will revisit this country again later in life and I hope to have new goals then. 

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #7 In our morning architecture tour of Milan, we explored how the city seamlessly combines modernity with tradition and how the city of Milan uses urban design and architecture to evolve the area. 

First we discussed how the city of Milan integrates both modern and historical elements. One example of this is the numerous city gates that were once part of the Spanish walls. This showcases how Milan has a commitment to preserving its rich history.

Another example is how the city prioritizes vibrant public spaces, emphasizing the creation of visually appealing and functional areas. The city promotes sustainability through green spaces and parks while also using public spaces to create function. An example of this is the city creating an area that has offices, residential areas, restaurants and stores. This promotes walkability to those working or living in these areas.

Lastly, Milan's dedication to sustainable design, by using energy-efficient materials and thoughtful sustainability practices. An example of this is The Unipol Group Headquarters which is currently under construction, this structure is a good example of urban design and sustainability as it will be an environmentally responsive structure, similar to how a tree interacts with its surroundings. The exterior is double layered and is designed as a dynamic system. The dual layers allow the building to insulate in the winter and limit overheating in the summer.

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✍️ - Blog #5 In Florence there are many buildings that utilize Alberti’s idea of “harmony of proportions”. Two specific examples include Palazzo Vecchio and the Florence Cathedral also known as the Duomo. 

Located in Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio serves as a town hall with a strikingly balanced and symmetrical main building. The proportions are evident in the height-to-width ratio and the alignment of architectural elements like windows and battlements. The building consists of four distinct levels, each of similar size, which contributes to a sense of equilibrium. While the tower itself is asymmetrical to the main building, its 1:1 ratio with the main structure adds a unique balance. 

The Florence Cathedral, showcases proportions when viewed from the side. A distinct 2:1 proportion is observable between the front of the church, including the dome, and the rear section. The dome adds height to the main section which balances out the rest of the structure.

The use of proportions in both the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio exemplifies the influence of Alberti's principles in shaping the architectural identity of Florence.

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #4

Despite both Rome and Florence being in the same country, both areas have distinct differences. Rome, situated in the region of Lazio, and Florence, situated in the region of Tuscany, are both cities with rich history and cultural disparities. I noticed that while both cities have similarities, they also exhibit differences.

Rome, as the capital city of Italy, has a rich history dating back to ancient times, featuring iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. The city is also home to Vatican City, an independent city-state that serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Vatican City is home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

In contrast, Florence has a strong history, particularly during the Renaissance. Often considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has a more concentrated focus on art and culture compared to Rome's broader emphasis on history.

As for cuisine both cities emphasize Italian, given their location. However, Rome is known for its hearty and diverse Italian cuisine, including pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe. Florence, on the other hand, is renowned for its Tuscan wine and cuisine, featuring popular dishes such as ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina.

Both Rome and Florence, despite being apart of the same country, offer different experiences that are shaped by their history, architectural styles, and culinary traditions.

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #3

Both the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon are notable structures that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The Trevi Fountain, located in Piazza di Trevi, serves as a captivating structure with its baroque design, featuring detailed and theatrical elements. The structure attracts large crowds to the square to see the fountain.

In contrast, the Pantheon which is located in Piazza della Rotonda, features a classical, symmetrical design. The structure in this plaza contributes to a more open and spacious feel, emphasizing its main structure.

Both areas feature structures that are the focal point. Bringing in visitors and locals to admire the architecture.

The Trevi Fountain engages with visitors on a more interactive level, such as the coin toss tradition, and being a famous photo opportunity, the structure adds to the vibrancy of Piazza di Trevi. The Pantheon on the other hand is more of a building you admire and observe. This creates a different type of energy in Piazza della Rotonda.

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #2

In architecture, a palimpsest is a structure with visible layers representing its historical evolution and adaptations over time.

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Renzo Piano’s Auditorium Parco della Musica is a palimpsest. A campus that is dedicated to the arts but designed and constructed on the site of an ancient roman villa. The campus consists of three varying size music halls and multiple outdoor spaces. Piano's design blends beautifully with the existing architecture in the spot.

Piano deliberately chose to incorporate elements of history of the site into the structure after excavations revealed the foundation of ancient roman villa and ancient artifacts. Once discovered Piano modified his design to incorporate the archaeological discoveries, as well as creating a small museum to showcase the newfound artifacts.

The concept of palimpsest is expressed in the work of Renzo Piano in the Flamino district as he incorporates history of the campus into his design of Auditorrium Parco della Musica. This incorporation transforms the campus into a living testament to the area’s evolution. Piano's attention to preserving and showcasing the ancient Roman heritage through his design seamlessly interweaving both past and present history.

[erinmartin35]

✍️ - Blog #1

In comparing the built environments of Italy and the United States, I've observed several cultural differences.

First I have noticed how Italy stands out for its centuries-old buildings that have served various purposes over time. For example, the Colosseum which not only functioned as an entertainment and gathering space but also once served as apartments and religious areas. The building's extensive history is evident in its columns and walls. The building itself reflects numerous renovations and reconstructions over the past two millennia. Additionally some of the materials that were once in the structure like marble and travertine have been removed repurposed for other projects. This contrasts with the US, where historical buildings with such multifaceted histories are less common.

Another difference is the street layouts. Italy has a large amount of smaller, one-way, or pedestrian-only streets that seem to have evolved naturally over time. Whereas in the United States, many cities exhibit a more planned, square, and rectangular structure, with roads primarily designed for cars.

Finally I think the last major cultural difference I noticed was Italy's emphasis on communal spaces. This emphasis is seen through numerous piazzas and public areas. In contrast, the United States faces challenges, with some public spaces lacking proper funding and maintenance or being less prevalent compared to Italy.

[erinmartin35]

📍Rome, Italy

Landed in Rome yesterday afternoon and have had fun exploring the city. Yesterday we visited the Colosseum and viewed the Roman Forum from above. Today we went to the National Museum of Rome - Baths of Diocletian, explored Trastevere, went to Auditorium Parco della Musica and the MAXXI - National Museum of 21st Century Art.

It has been a great experience so far in Italy and I am looking forward to exploring more of Rome tomorrow and then Florence and Milan later in the trip! 🇮🇹

As for food I have had excellent pizza, pasta, gelato, red wine and even shots of limoncello.

[erinmartin35]

Favorite Elon Structure

My favorite structure on Elon's campus is the Innovation Quad. It embodies a perfect blend of cutting-edge engineering and architectural design. The steel trusses and rectangular columns contribute to its robust structure, providing a modern aesthetic appeal. What truly interests me is the incorporation of light-reactive film in the large stairwell which creates a dynamic interplay of colors based on the condition of the light. This innovative feature aligns seamlessly with the building's purpose as a hub for engineering. The thoughtful urban design, enhances its significance as a hub for STEM studies at Elon University.

[erinmartin35]

Personal Objectives for Europe

I plan to push myself to try new foods that I might not otherwise consider. The goal is to expand my palate, embracing the opportunity to experience new and diverse flavors.

I aim to elevate my architectural photography skills by capturing structures in ways I haven't before. I hope to seek out unique angles, experiment with lighting, and explore diverse compositions to properly capture the magnitude of each location that we visit.

I hope to engage in conversations with local citizens. My objective is to immerse myself in the language as much as possible and foster a deeper connection with the culture.

I hope to venture beyond touristy spots and explore hidden gems in each destination. By discovering local favorites I hope to get a better understanding for the city.

I hope to participate in a local culinary class. I would love to learn how to make pasta in Italy or paella in Spain. I know that these hands-on experiences will help deepen my understanding of the cuisine in each country.