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.
The chosen building for this discussion is the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France. The architect, I.M. Pei, chose a pyramid for the shape of the building as a nod to the traditional architectural elements of French Renaissance and Classicism, while also adding a modern twist to the design. The pyramid shape also serves as a symbol of light and openness, inviting visitors into the museum.
If I were to design this building as a prism instead of a pyramid, I would likely create a more angular and sleek structure with flat faces. This design change could potentially give the building a more contemporary and sharp aesthetic, while still maintaining a sense of grandeur and sophistication.
The change in shape from a pyramid to a prism would significantly affect the construction of the building. A pyramid shape allows for a more stable and balanced structure, distributing weight evenly throughout. A prism shape, on the other hand, may require more reinforcement and support to ensure stability, especially if the building is large in size.
In terms of volume, the change in shape from a pyramid to a prism could potentially impact the amount of usable space within the building. A prism shape typically has more surface area and may take up more land space compared to a pyramid, which could limit the footprint of the building. Additionally, the interior volume would also be affected, potentially leading to different interior layouts and functionalities within the building. This could impact the overall user experience and functionality of the space.