Part A is an individual work, but done in a group. We were divided into our own group and also at the same time given a site. Our group consist of Brian Koh, Chan Koon Qi, Cha Yun Xian, Carlson Ko,  and myself, Cham Zheng Chee. The historical building that was given to us was St Vitus Cathedral. 

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We had to carry out or research and study regarding this historical building. There were 5 questions that was given to each and everyone of us as a guideline of the things we have to cover in our own research. At the end, we have to compile all our research findings on to the WIKI TIMeS On-line Discussion Forum.

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As for my part, the questions I received are as below:

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" QUESTION 1:

 i.  Who was the architect or founder of the building?

ii. What was the concept or philosophy of the architect or founder that makes the building historically significant / meaningful? "     

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The Research Findings

The Architect || The Concept, The Design Philosophy || The Significance

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a) The Architect of the building

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The first master builder for the St.Vitus Cathedral, Czech Republic, Prague was a Frenchman, Matthias of Arras. After Matthias's passing in 1352, the task was then continued by Peter Parler, a German man.

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Figure 1: Matthias of Arras                                         Figure 2: Peter Parler

 

b) The Concept or Philosophy of Architect that made the building historical and significant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 Figure 3: Exterior St Vitus Cathedral                          Figure 4: Interior of St Vitus Cathedral

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Matthias Of Arras was once schooled as a geometer. Thus, he always emphasizes on rigid system of proportion in his building designs. He focuses on creating a clear mathematical composition in buildings.

 

As for Peter Parler, he was born in a stone cutter and an architect family, This is why, his design in buildings are always bold and innovative. Peter treats architecture as a structural stone form of sculptures. He has introduced new synthesis of Gothic elements in architecture. For example, the vaults for the choir. Peter actually created the double diagonal ribs, crossing pair to create a net-like structure in order to strengthen the vaults.

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                                             Figure 5: The diagonal ribs along the vault.

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Matthias of Arras did the design of the overall layout of the building while Peter Parler has always come out with new ideas to enlighten the building. For instant, He gave lively ornamentation to the ceiling and interlocked vault bay creating a dynamic zig-zag pattern.

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The architects in the St. Vitus Cathedral has embraced the Gothic architecture in it. The cathedral creates a unique experience for the people. It has a constant sense of movement as the eye follows the line made by the ribs of the arches and vault . It has a powerful upward lift and also extraordinary displays of light and colors.

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