Иностранный язык в профессиональной деятельности. Английский язык. Дизайн интерьера. Дизайн пространственной среды. Учебное пособие

UNIT 4

PLANNING AND DESIGN

1.Warm up. The first part of any project involves the gathering and analysis of information as a foundation from which the designer can develop ideas. The second stage is the creative one that, while largely intuitive, is guided by certain fundamental design principles and guidelines. What are they and what is their purpose?

2.Read and translate the text. Give titles to its three parts. Write a summary (just one sentence for each paragraph).

The principles of design

1 ______________________

The study of actual human body measurements and movements in a design situation is known as ‘anthropometrics’. The amount of room needed for certain activities as well as the most convenient height of a working surface or storage access all have to be considered at the initial planning stage of a project. A further study of the perception and use of space involves the notion of personal space, or ‘proxemics’, and can differ from culture to culture. Its specific value to designers is in providing data on a range of social distances that are necessary for activities in the home, workplace and other public environments.

2 ______________________

Scale represents the actual size of something in relation to a recognized standard while proportion refers to the relationships between the parts of a composition. It is these proportions that help a designer to plan spaces, work out layouts, and arrange furniture and objects in order to create a sense of harmony and balance. ‘Ergonomics’ is a study of the efficiency of persons in their living and working space. It is the responsibility of the designer to ensure that the resulting environment and products specified are comfortable, safe and efficient to use.

3 ______________________

There are some ways of achieving a sense of visual order within a space. Once a designer has established a fixed, horizontal line to work with, then all depths and heights can be established from that.

A symmetrical arrangement is all about balance and form and generally involves working in pairs. As with all design principles, symmetry can apply to the vertical divisions of a room as well as to the horizontal ones. Symmetry is pleasing to the eye but can make a space seem sterile. Asymmetry, in contrast, refers to the balance of non-equivalent forms and relies on the visual weight of the objects, using the principle of leverage to balance their arrangement.

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In China, lines are traditionally believed to affect people psychologically. While horizontal lines create a feeling of tranquility and vertical lines are more energizing, a combination of the two is said to bring about harmony. The art of fengshui stems from ancient Chinese philosophy and Taoist religion and is based on the belief that everything in the universe revolves round a cosmic life force known as chi. Chi itself is composed of the contrasting forces yin and yang, which should ideally be in balance at all times. Although often complex, many fengshui principles can be related to western ideas about ergonomics and the flow of spaces, and there are also parallels in terms of color use, decoration and symbolism.

Contrast can be introduced into interiors in many different ways: for example, contrast of form whereby different shapes, heights and sizes are introduced into a space; contrast of colour; contrast of texture; and contrast of light and shade.

Too many disparate and disjointed elements in a space can be disquieting to the mind’s eye and a designer can make use of rhythm and repetition of recurring elements or patterns to help avoid this. The regular spacing of identical objects along a linear path; a series of repeated architectural elements, such as columns or pilasters or a strong line of identical widows; or repetition of smaller details such as pictures or decorative objects displayed in evenly spaced, dramatic groups can help avoid the problem.

It is a natural human instinct to look for and be drawn to a fixed point within a space. This can be something as obvious as a fireplace or console table with an eye-catching display but could also be an asymmetrically placed focal point.

For the designer who is well-versed in the principles of design, it is often a case of looking for ways to effectively blur the boundaries between traditional classical style and modernism or oriental style.

3.Search online for information about a) the golden section, b) the Fibonacci sequence, c) classical orders, d) oriental proportions, and e) le Modulor as fundamental issues used in design. Share your findings with the class.

4.Complete the text with the following phrases.

sufficient space, discreet and private areas, planning priority, constraints and opportunities, large expanses, function and practicality, perception of space, particular purpose, ease of access

Answer the questions.

a)What are the main issues to consider at the planning stage of a project?

b)What are the tools that the designer can use to optimize the sense of space and light?

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Practical planning

Although a designer will always be aware of the aesthetics and holistic aspects of any space being planned, 1 ___________________ are the other obvious priorities. An area must be designed and planned for a 2

________________ and must cater for the needs and activities of the people occupying that space.

In all planning, 3 _____________ needs to be allowed around furniture, and the opening of drawers, windows and cupboard doors or the positioning of door swings would all be considered as part of the process.

Storage plays a key part in all our lives and the designer has to plan this out with precision to ensure that everything required can be accommodated with maximum efficiency and 4 _____________________.

Safety in interiors is also a 5 ___________________ and common sense dictates that a designer should take particular care where children or elderly people are concerned. The planning regulations for public areas are fairly clearly laid down, although they are still somewhat nebulous for domestic interiors.

Although most decisions that interior designers take on the structural side of a project would involve consultation with an architect, surveyor or engineer, it is obviously vital to have a good understanding of how a building is put together in order to assess the 6 ___________________________ that present themselves, and to liaise knowledgeably with other professionals in the course of a project.

Flexibility is playing an increasingly important part in contemporary interiors and while there is much to be gained by opening up spaces to maximize light and living space, it is now understood that 7 ________________________

are also sometimes needed within a home or working environment. Sometimes a designer will look to separate an area of a large space without actually isolating it, through the careful placement of furniture or the installation of low walls with openings.

Removing or scaling down details such as cornices, which define corners and sometimes cramp the space, can expand the 8 _____________________. Installing lightweight furniture or inserting glass panels in the floor further enhances space and light. A designer might also use lighting to soften the junctions between walls andceilings. In addition to hung, framed mirrors,

9 ________________ of mirror can be installed between dado and cornice or adjacent windows, or above a chimney piece to reflect images and animate spaces.

5. Match the two halves of the sentence. Translate the sentences.

a.A traffic-flow plan helps the designer to ensure that

b.The introduction of screens allows for

c.Mirrors provide an obvious way for the designer to increase

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d.Designers will employ visual tricks

e.Less is more, and the simpler the design,

1.the flexible division of space.

2.to increase the feeling of space or magnify small rooms.

3.the more timeless and satisfying it is likely to prove.

4.the sense of space and light and to distort scale.

5.there is a good circulation flow around a busy area.

6.Read and translate the text about general information on services. Then search online for descriptions of a) different types of interior heating, b) types of lighting (general lighting, task lighting, accent lighting), c) services for communication. Share your findings with the class.

Integrating the services

The services, though often unseen and perhaps not the most appealing part of the planning process, form a vital part of any interior space and have to be considered at the outset of a project. These services include heating, plumbing and drainage, lighting and electrics, air conditioning, security and integrated entertainment or communication systems. In order to make design decisions and to communicate with specialists on site, the designer must ensure that they are as up- to-date and well-informed in these areas as possible.

Although almost anything is technically possible these days, major redesign of service entry points to a building can be very expensive, so the position of these may well influence decisions on the layout. If water inflow and soil outflow pipes are positioned so that they have the shortest possible runs to service appliances and sanitary ware, this would help to keep project costs down.

Good lighting can totally transform a space by energizing as well as illuminating it. The lighting should enhance the architectural style of a room, helping to create a specific ambience, and enabling the mood to be changed at the flick of a switch.

Installing new lighting often involves some structural work such as cutting holes in ceilings for downlighters or spotlights, channeling out walls, or cutting holes in woodwork to insert cables for computers or wall fittings. Installation would always be carried out by a professional electrician. However, an electrician would not necessarily know much about lighting design and would need to be properly briefed by a designer and provided with full specification for the works required and a detailed lighting plan.

The flexibility of a lighting scheme can be increased by using more than one electrical circuit, for example, table lamps on one, wall-mounted fittings on another, ceiling-mounted or recessed lights on a third. A successful lighting scheme should have a variety of light sources that can then be adjusted to suit the function, mood or hour. Dimmer switches give maximum flexibility and there are now sophisticated dimming systems available that can also incorporate controls for sound systems, television and other technology.

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Many people now work from home, connecting with their company through advanced communication channels. This is a specialist area and, while it would most probably be designed by a specialist, it is the designer who will need to integrate this functional equipment into the scheme, deal with the cable management and meet the ergonomic challenges.

7. Refer to your background knowledge and tell the class about:

a) axonometric and isometric projections, b) perspective drawings, c) freehand sketching, d) rendering techniques.

8. Before you read the text, a) predict what issues it will cover. Read and translate the text, then b) role-play a conversation based on a situation below.

Drawing up designs

Once the actual concept has been decided upon, the designer is ready to start drawing up floor plans to scale from the survey. Early drawings are done in pencil and from this the final presentation plan is traced off in ink and copied onto detail paper or higher-quality paper if it is to be rendered and mounted on board. The plan in its basic form, ready for the progression of design ideas, would include the walls, showing their thicknesses and length; the openings of doors, cupboards and windows; the positioning of radiators; and details such as window-sills and skirting boards. There would also be a title block and an indication of the scale of the drawing and the position of the north point.

Since a plan is viewed from above, any changes in level or three-dimensional structures would have to be clearly indicated, which is why sections, elevations and construction detail drawings are sometimes necessary to provide additional information. An elevation can be particularly helpful to clients who find the concept of scale on a plan difficult to grasp. A section shows how two separate areas divided by walls related to one another. It is usual to show at least two sections or elevations and to indicate on the plan where these are located. Rough versions of these can be used to try out problem-solving ideas and design solutions.

If there are to be structural changes to the space these would be considered at this stage, prior to developing the detailed furniture layout. In order to work up a satisfactory furniture layout, the designer will need to know the measurements of any existing furniture that the client wishes to use and will also have to source new furniture and then scale off from the dimensions of these.

Services and lighting plans can be generated separately or shown as an overlay to the master plan, and the drawings are supported with symbols and a key. They are either drawn in ink on tracing paper and transferred to acetate, or photocopied, or drawn directly on acetate with special pens. They can also be computer-generated.

For the designer working with a full team of architects and engineers it will be essential to be able to produce all layouts and designs with a computer-aided design program. CAD is generally recognized as a very convenient tool for space-planning, presentation and communication and an immensely valuable labour-saving device.

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However, CAD is not a design tool in itself and can never replace exploring an idea by sketching.

Detailed working drawings are produced after the client has agreed to go ahead with the project, in order to convey precise information to a contractor or planning officer on how something is to be constructed. These usually take the form of plans, elevations and sections drawn to scale and the drawings are functional rather than decorative and clearly annotated to clarify the designer’s intentions or the materials and finishes that are to be used.

b) Situation: You are a designer. Talk to a client about: drawings for his or her house, which drawing he/she found the problem on, a change that he/she wants to make to the design.

9. Fill in the sentences with the most suitable word or phrase from the box.

1.As a rule, pale surfaces make it easier to achieve good _________ than dark ones.

2.____________ can make a room look wider by accentuating the walls.

3.Bathroom lights need to be enclosed to comply with ___________________.

4.Lighting plans are often shown on an_________ which can then be placed over the furniture layout.

5.There are now ___________ for kitchens that can be arranged as wall-mounted or free-standing units.

6.Watercolour is regarded as one of the most attractive forms of ___________ and can be used to create myriad colours and subtle effects.

7.Mixed media helps add depth and texture to an illustration and enables a good replication of ________________.

10. Finish the sentences.

1.One of the major recent changes in interior design work has been the need for designers to have _________________________________________________.

2.Proportioning systems have been developed through time to try to establish

__________________________________________.

3.So often, less is more, and the simpler the design,

_________________________.

4.The home cinema is increasingly popular and the designer needs to be aware of ____________________________________________________________.

5.Freehand sketching is a wonderfully quick communication tool and helps the designer _________________________________.

6.Rendered illustrations can help _________________________________.

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Vocabulary

datum – n, a line, plane or volume that provides a reference for the organization of forms and spaces into a pattern

distort – v, to change the appearance or shape of something so that it is unclear downlighter – n, recessed or ceiling-mounted fittings that throw light downwards

elevation – n, a scaled drawing showing a vertical view or detail of the design light fitting – n, an appliance that provides support and electrical connection to a lamp (bulb); it often incorporates the means of controlling the light

nebulous – adj, is not all clear or exact

section – n, a representation of a vertical slice through a wall

skirting board – n, edging, usually made of wood, fixed around interior walls at floor level to protect the walls from knocks and scuffs

uplighter – n, a light fitting that projects light up onto a ceiling, sending reflected light back down

wallwasher – n, a light fitting that directs the light from a recessed fitting in the ceiling on to a wall or items placed on the wall

UNIT 5

FENCES AND WALLS

Fences

1. Warm-up.

Discuss the following questions:

a)Why did people in the past built fences and walls?

b)Do you know from history anything about famous old walls?

c)What are the reasons for installing walls and fences nowadays?

2. Read and translate the text. Then, write a summary (5-6 sentences).

Adding a wall or fence to a property can be an overwhelming decision. Today, a range of styles and designs, multiplied by a variety of materials and quality grades, exist. To be sure of what kind of wall or fence is required the owner has to determine the reasons for installing a fence, e.g. adding a decorative touch; providing some privacy; blocking out the neighbor’s back yard; protecting the property from wandering animals, etc.

Generally, the more basic the house, the more straight forward the fence should be. The fence should match the scale and appearance of the house. A good rule of thumb is to consider using the same material as the siding of the house.

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Before laying a foundation check with your local building officials regarding the zoning ordinances and building codes that specify the style of fence you can build, how high it can be, and how far it must be kept from the property line or street.

To determine where the fence should be located, the landscaper draws the property to scale, including bordering property, public land such as sidewalks and roads, access, and buildings; marks the distance of the house from property lines and designates setback lines and other limitations as required by applicable zoning regulations.

When evaluating a fence and its cost the owner should consider how long they want it to last. Is this a product that will last ten years? How much maintenance does it require? A well chosen fence should enhance the property and add to its value.

There is a range of possible options to choose from. Boundary fences enhance the appearance of a property or garden. Privacy fences are designed to block the view from the outside and inside. Security fences prevent trespassing or theft and/or keep children and pets from wandering away. Ideally, the fence is beautiful, offering style and utility to a house.

The summary

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

3. There are several gaped paragraphs, describing different types of fences. For each gap, decide whether it should be filled with boundary fences, privacy fences, or security fences.

1.____________ can substantially enlarge the outside living space of the home. By adding a fence, you can transform your property into functional outdoor rooms, which you can enjoy without being visible to the entire neighborhood. A high solid fence is the usual choice, but a thick row of hedges can also meet this need.

2.A _________ aims to discourage potential intruders (human or animal) from going over, under, or through the structure. Height and sharp edges can deter property theft and vandalism. If privacy isn’t an issue, an open design will allow air to circulate through your yard. It also will keep the fence from becoming the dominant feature in your landscape.

3.A _________ can have a major impact on the perception of the house and the appearance of the neighborhood. Ideally, a fence appears attractive and welcoming. It is a low fence that marks the property edges. A good _________ isn’t offensive to the neighbors, but it does prevent the neighborhood children from cutting across your lawn.

4.___________ block out the trash cans, the neighbor’s yard, the noisy streets, the nosy neighbors and enhance our security. They also enclose our home, block our property from view, and act as wind and sound barrier. As oases from our

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responsibilities inside the home, these become whimsical and playful, spacious and cozy places in our hectic lives.

5. ___________ are attractive additions to a property. They create an image or visual impact more than they secure or protect. By adding a fence, a homeowner can break the monotony of a long stretch of backyard against the woods. Using the fence as a background for a small garden or as support for climbing flowers or vines is even more dynamic.

4. Fill in the sentences with the most suitable word or phrase from the box.

boundaries landscaping feature properties codes community ownership

1.Once ________________ dwindled and private property became more prevalent, fences began to appear, defining property ownership.

2.In some parts of Greece, homeowners just incorporate the ancient walls into their

___________.

3.Before building a fence, landscapers should make sure the structure complies with local __________.

4.Generally about four feet high, picket fences make excellent decorative

__________ with plenty of airflow.

5.The fence will become a ___________ and accent your home as well.

5. Match the two halves of the sentence. Translate the sentences.

a.Many residences turn to strong, durable chain link fencing,

b.Boundary fences enhance the appearance of a property or garden;

c.Privacy fences are designed

d.A security fence should be six to eight feet tall,

e.Charming and easy to install,

1.to block the view from the outside and inside.

2.depending on the intruders you’re trying to keep out.

3.which requires little or no maintenance and costs less than a wood fence.

4.typically low and simple, they can remind the kids about the yard perimeter.

5.the picket fence comes in various styles.

6. Write a proposal for a fence design. Include: the type of fence, the appearance of the fence, and the functional qualities of the fence. For example.

Fence Design Proposal for Mr. L

Mr. L wants a picket fence around the front yard of his property.

I plan to build a low picket fence three meters in from the property line (in order to comply with local height and setback requirements).

Mr. L’s property is in an area with large fluctuations in temperature. I will make sure the fencing materials can withstand frequent expansion and contraction etc.

……

……

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UNIT 6

PLANNING AND DESIGNING A RAIN GARDEN

1. Warm-up.

a) Comment on the statement of an unknown author:

“Man – despite his artistic pretensions, his sophistication, and his many accomplishments – owes his existence to a six-inch layer of topsoil and the fact that it rains”.

b) With a partner discuss the following questions:

1)In what way do housing and urban development interrupt the hydrologic cycle?

2)What needs to be done to reduce the impact of storm water and drought on our communities?

2. Read and translate the text. Fill in the spaces (with the most suitable words) in the summary that follows.

What is a Rain Garden?

A rain garden is a system for restoring some of the function that is lost when land is developed. It is simply a shallow basin with a porous backfill and deep rooted, moisture tolerant plantings. It is located where it will collect runoff from downspouts, sump pumps, paved areas, roofs and expanses of lawn. It can be one large garden or a number of smaller depressions within a larger garden or border. It takes about three years from planting to becoming a fully functioning, low maintenance (but not no maintenance) rain garden: all gardens require some degree of effort to remain attractive and healthy.

A rain garden can be designed for a formal appearance or a more casual look, depending upon the surrounding landscape and the aesthetic values of the homeowner.

The functional purpose of a rain garden is to collect runoff, hold water and filter it as it percolates into groundwater. A rain garden helps to stabilize the hydrologic cycle of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, which replenishes surface water and supports plant and animal life on earth. Many pollutants are broken down through composting processes that take place in organic mulches and soil.

To avoid mosquito breeding, water should not stand on the surface of a rain garden for more than four days. If the rain garden does not drain within that time it becomes a wetland, bog garden, or a pond, depending upon the depth of standing water. If a pond is to be part of a rain garden it will need a system to clean and aerate water.

In a well-designed rain garden, there are spring flowers, cool green vegetation, autumn foliage color, berries, and graceful grasses to be enjoyed throughout the year.

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