Good Architecture = Good Song

Architecture is a Song

Lyrics 詞 = Meaning, history, theory that puts the design into discussion by providing a narrative platform to express its support/denial of the context which it is discussed).

Tune 曲 = atmosphere, dictates the way in which the design is to be expressed according to the intended lyrics. Form, order, organization, tectonic expressions, material, color, pitch, rhythm, dynamics, texture, composition

A song with good tune does not require understanding of the lyrics of the song in order to enjoy it. Its purpose is to set the mood, not storytelling. Ex: Jay Chou's 周大俠, almost all of Jays songs dont require understanding of the lyrics, instead, its efforts lies in the complexity and layering of multiple tunes, he sings with tune in mind, rather than the content, this is what makes him so unique in contemporary culture. Other examples like Enya, which seem to express her voice as a musical instrument, a mechanism of expression, rather than as a storytelling medium.


However, classical songs 80's and before, often has to rely on the content of lyrics to captivate its audience, since the technology (sound mixers, garage band, etc) for making and editing tunes where not as sophisticated and diverse as it is now.

Combination of the two results in a great song; a great architecture, that when experienced, provides you with goosebumps.

UM + SCI-Arc = a great song.