Reading Comprehension 5

Harwood, page 14

[1] To me the clay pot represents a revolution in design. The clay pot allowed many civilizations to store grain to get them through the colder months when there was no harvest. This storing of grain also allowed these cultures to have a more leisurely lifestyle. The pots were also another me

ans of artistic expression. The clay pot to me represents a revolution in freedom. The freedom to pursue other activities in place of gathering. The freedom to develop a skill creating the pots and the freedom of the artist to imprint his 'label' on individual pots.

[2]

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Artifact

Images of Buddha have become quit popular in American decor lately. One such item is the Buddha statue used to decorate interior spaces and gardens in American houses. Besides referring to the Chinese religion of Buddhism, these statues also incorporate natural materials such as wood and stone. The use of Buddha also points to a new movement in the East. More people are trying to take a holistic approach by integrating more spiritual practices into their lives. These practices include meditation yoga and Zen just to name a few.

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Space

The Eastern influence in this space can be seen in the use of plants representing nature being brought indoors.The use of partitions is also common in Japanese design allowing space to be easily changeable. The overall floor plan of this space is very open which is common in Japanese planning. The integration of the plants as decor is reminiscent of the Chinese style. The use of repeated geometric shapes is als

o a well defined Eastern style. It can be seen in the repeated use of rectangles. Rectangles are repeated in the glass partition, on the two bottom stairs, the painting above the bed, and the windows. The space is also free of clutter and minimalist. Also the use of natural materials, stone, and wood, goes with the Eastern philosophy of man being of nature and its essential

importance of being integrated into living spaces.

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Building

This Ranch style New England home was renovated to include some Eastern features. It has many Asi

an inspired influences including bamboo flooring and maple cabinetry on the interior. On the exterior there are plants near the home As you walk outside there are trees only feet away from the home. The cantilevered roofs show the asymmetry used in Asian styling and sliding glass doors help integrate exterior and interior spaces seamlessly when used. The courtyard area is balanced on either side by the previously existing home on one side and the addition on the other. Rooms overlook the

courtyard making them feel open to the outdoors.

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Place

Albert Kahn is a garden

designer. He designs gardens in France influenced by the East. This garden on the outskirts of Paris, balances several elements of nature. The elements together are water, rocks, earth, and plants, all of which are necessary to create a balance in the natural world.