In your journal, you wrote about calculating the amount of concrete needed for a building project. You used the relationship between the volume of a prism and the volume of a pyramid.
Pyramids have been used in building all over the world from ancient times in Egypt, Mexico, Italy, and Japan, to modern times in France and the United States. Use your research on a pyramid-shaped building and your knowledge of volume for a discussion giving consideration to purpose.
Begin the discussion by responding to the following prompt:
In your post, discuss the following with your peers:
Identify the chosen building. Why do you think the architect chose a pyramid for the shape of the building?
How would you design this building as a prism? Justify.
How would the change in shape affect the construction of the building?
How would the change in shape affect the use of the building? Use the concept of volume in this post.
Then read two of your peers’ posts. Respond to two of your peers:
For each post, explain why the pyramid or prism is a better shape for the building.
How would you improve on the identified pyramid-shaped building?
How would you improve on the alternate prism-shaped building?
Post 1:
The chosen building I am discussing is the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France. I believe the architect, I.M. Pei, chose a pyramid for the shape of the building for several reasons. Firstly, the Louvre Pyramid serves as the main entrance to the museum, so it needed to have a significant and eye-catching design. The pyramid shape is iconic and instantly recognizable, making it a perfect architectural statement for such a famous and historical institution. Additionally, the Louvre Pyramid was constructed in the 1980s, a time when modern architectural designs were gaining popularity, and the pyramid shape aligned well with this aesthetic.
If I were to design the Louvre Pyramid as a prism, I would create a rectangular prism with a similar footprint to the pyramid base, but with straight vertical walls instead of slanted ones. I would justify this design because a prism has a larger volume compared to a pyramid with the same base area and height. This means that by designing the Louvre Pyramid as a prism, we can have more interior space available for exhibition areas, galleries, and any other museum purposes.
The change in shape from a pyramid to a prism would significantly affect the construction of the building. With a pyramid, the walls are inclined, which requires different construction techniques compared to vertical walls. The pyramid shape may also involve more complex engineering calculations to ensure the stability of the structure. On the other hand, constructing a prism would be relatively simpler, as it involves creating straight, vertical walls, which are more commonly seen in building construction.
The change in shape from a pyramid to a prism would also have an impact on the use of the building. As mentioned earlier, a prism has a larger volume compared to a pyramid, meaning more interior space available. This additional space could be utilized for expanding exhibition areas, creating larger galleries, or including additional facilities such as cafeterias or shops. The increased volume would enhance the functionality and flexibility of the building, allowing for a greater range of activities and exhibits to be accommodated.
Post 2:
The building I have chosen is the Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, USA. The architect chose a pyramid for the shape of the building because it represents the grandeur and mystique associated with ancient Egypt, which aligns well with the theme of the hotel and casino. The pyramid shape immediately grabs attention and stands out among the surrounding buildings, attracting tourists and visitors to the establishment. It creates a sense of wonder and adventure, making it a popular choice for entertainment venues in Las Vegas.
If I were to design the Luxor Hotel and Casino as a prism, I would create a rectangular prism with a similar base area and height as the pyramid. Justifying this design, a prism's straight vertical walls would provide more uniform and usable interior space throughout the building. It would be easier to design and allocate rooms, suites, and other entertainment areas within the prism shape. Additionally, a prism-shaped building would allow for more natural light to enter through windows since it lacks the slanted sides of a pyramid.
The change in shape from a pyramid to a prism would affect the construction of the building in various ways. Building a prism would involve simpler construction techniques, as it requires creating straight vertical walls. The construction process might be more straightforward, involving less complicated engineering calculations compared to a pyramid. Additionally, since the prism does not have sloping sides, the materials used for the walls might vary, potentially reducing costs.
In terms of the use of the building, the change in shape from a pyramid to a prism would result in a more efficient utilization of space. A prism shape provides more interior volume, which could be used to accommodate additional hotel rooms, larger casino spaces, or other entertainment facilities. This increased volume would enhance the overall capacity and functionality of the Luxor Hotel and Casino, allowing for a greater number of guests and more diverse entertainment options.
Response to Post 1:
I think the pyramid shape is a better choice for the Louvre Museum because it has a strong visual impact and quickly captures the attention of visitors. The slanted walls of the pyramid create a sense of grandeur and intrigue, which fits well with the museum's historic and artistic significance. Additionally, the Louvre Pyramid is not primarily intended for maximizing interior space, but rather as a stunning architectural feature and a symbolic entrance to the museum.
To improve on the Louvre Pyramid, I would focus on enhancing the interior design and functionality. The pyramid shape does create some limitations in terms of interior space, especially in terms of display areas. Adding more innovative exhibition spaces or utilizing technology to maximize the use of space could enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, incorporating more green features, such as sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, would be a notable improvement.
Response to Post 2:
In the case of the Luxor Hotel and Casino, I believe the pyramid shape is a better choice because it aligns perfectly with the theme and atmosphere of ancient Egypt that the establishment aims to create. The pyramid shape is instantly recognizable and gives the building a unique identity in the Las Vegas skyline. Additionally, the sloping sides of the pyramid create a more dramatic visual impact, making it an iconic landmark on the Las Vegas Strip.
To improve on the Luxor Hotel and Casino, I would focus on incorporating more modern amenities and interior design elements that complement the pyramid shape. The interior could be renovated to provide more luxurious and comfortable accommodation, as well as a greater variety of entertainment options. Additionally, enhancing the sustainability features of the building, such as incorporating renewable energy sources or improving energy efficiency, would be a significant improvement.