Miki Korenaga

St. Paul College Historical Role and Influence in the Development of Macao

Abstract Macao is the first western city in East Asia, founded by Portuguese merchants, adventurers and missionaries. The first permanent urban complex in the city was the Jesuit′s Saint Paul College (SPC) that had a decisive role in Macao′s history. The objective of this paper is to analyze the role, influence and functions of Saint Paul College in the last 450 years. Because no plans or drawings survived to the present days, retrieving of the SPC historical layout, role and influence made use of a scientific method that consisted of a systematic survey and a comparison analysis of data from 1) graphic images and maps; 2) historical documents; and 3) archeological findings. This method could provide enough data to elaborate on a conjectural model of the SPC that would be needed to visualize its architecture. Historical research evidences showed that the SPC had three major functions: a) as a religious center and university college (1594-1762); b) as a military facility (1789-1835); and c) as a tourist and archeological site (1970′s - present). The conclusions showed the influence of SPC in the architecture of other religious facilities as well in the external use of squares as a baroque space introductory to the sacred buildings. The SPC was important for the understanding of Macao Architecture.

SPATIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MAIN ENTRANCE IN REFURBISHED TRADITIONAL TIMBER HOUSES OF JAPAN FOCUSING ON THE RELATIONSHIP TO THE ADJACENT ROOMS

This study aims to clarify the characteristics of the main entrance in refurbished traditional timber houses of Japan dealing with the spatial similarity and the interrelationship between the main entrance and the adjacent rooms. Firstly, five types of shapes are classified analyzing the arrangement of the main entrance area and the adjacent rooms. Secondly, the expression of beams of each space is categorized according to the configuration between the ceiling height and the frameworks. Thirdly, the spatial similarity is disclosed due to finishing of interior fixtures. In conclusion, several types of the characteristics of the main entrance are pointed out.

SPATIAL COMPOSITION AND PUBLIC USE OF COURTYARDS IN THE HISTORIC AREA IN MILAN

The purpose of this study is to consider the way of effective utilization of the historic constructions in Italy. To investigate how the spaces have been transformed to be adapted for the public use, this research focuses on the spatial composition in the re-utilized curtyards in the historic area in Milan. Analyzing typologically the ways of arranging such spatial compositions, 6 types of spatial compositions are identified. In conclusion, the courtyards with continuities of streets are used for commercial shops or exhibition space. On the other hand, the courtyards composed internally without connection of street are used for educational activities or offices.

FRAMEWORK EXPRESSION OF MAIN ROOM IN REFURBISHED TRADITIONAL JAPANESE TIMBER HOUSES

The aim of this study is to clarify characteristics of refurbished traditional Japanese timber houses, focusing on compositions of frameworks in main rooms after refurbishing. Firstly, shapes of main rooms are analyzed according to three levels of composition; wall, horizontal ceiling and the adjoining relationship to sub-structure, and partitions in main rooms are analyzed too. Secondly, characteristics of frameworks are analyzed with regard to shapes of timber and arrangements of beams. In conclusion, several types of expression in framework arrangement in main rooms are pointed out, and their characteristics are clarified such as the contrast between framework and shape of main room.