Field Conditions Reading

Field Conditions
By: Stan Allen

1. Stan Allen describes field conditions as “bottom-up phenomena: defined not by overarching geometrical schemas but by intricate local connections.” What are some field condition examples that can be found in the road systems of Lubbock?
   --Some field conditions that can be found in Lubbock are stop signs at intersections, the road gravings because they have a consistant degree, and the layout in relation to a grid system.

2. In part 1, Allen distinguishes a geometric relationship of classical architecture from an
algebraic combination of the Cordoba Mosque. How do these two architectural examples
differ?
--Classical architecture relates to a whole, there is a system that is apparent. The Cordoba
Mosque started with one set condition, like an assembly line, and is grown from there.

3. What are some other examples of field conditions that can be observed around campus?
--Some of the field conditions you can find around campus are the paving, seating at the
football stadium, bike racks, and the parking lots having consistant spaces. All of these
have repeating patterns that make up a field condition.

4. How does a field condition stand to redefine the relation between figure and ground?
--Physical materials define the relationships as well as spacing. There is a consistancy and
two material conditions, it's a one to one relationship. Giambattista Nolli shows a great
example of this with his city plan of Rome, he takes figure ground and makes it useful.