Architectural System
The architecture of Space, Structure and Enclose:
1. Organizational pattern, relationship, clarity
2. Formal image and spatial definition
3. Qualities of shape, color, texture, scale and proportion
4. Qualities of surface, edges and openings
The above mentioned notions are experienced though
movement in Space-Time
Spatial system:
The three-dimensional integration of programme element and
spaces accommodates the multiple functions and relationships
of a house
Structural system:
A grid of columns supports horizontal beams and slabs. The
cantilever acknowledges the direction of approaches along the
longitudinal axis
Enclosure system:
Four exterior wall planes define a rectangular volume that
contains the program elements and spaces
Circulation system:
The stair and ramp penetrate and link the three levels and
heighten the viewer’s perception of forms in space and light
The curved form of the entrance foyer reflects the movement
of the automobile
Context
A simple exterior forms wrap around
a complex interior organization of
forms and spaces
Elevating the main floor provides a
better view and avoids the
humidity of the ground
A garden terrace distributes sunlight
to the spaces gathered around it
Ordering Principles of Architecture:
Order refers not simply to
geometric regularity, but
rather to a condition in
which each part of a
whole is properly
Disposed with reference
to other parts and to its
purpose so as to produce
a harmonious
arrangement
There exists a natural diversity and complexity in the program
requirements of all building
The forms and spaces of any buildings should acknowledge
the hierarchy inherent in the functions they accommodate
The uses they serve
The purpose or meanings they convey
The scope or context they address
It is in recognition of this natural diversity, complexity and
hierarchy in the programming, designing and making of
buildings that ordering principles are discussed
Order without diversity can result in monotony or boredom
—diversity without order can produce chaos—a sense of
unity with variety is the ideal
The following ordering principles are seen as visual devices
that allow the varied and diverse forms and spaces of a building to coexist
perceptually and conceptually within an ordered, unified and harmonious
whole
Axis; Symmetry; Hierarchy;
Rhythm; Datum; Transformation
Axis:
A line established by two points in space about which forms and
spaces can be arranged in a symmetrical or balanced manner
Since axis is essentially an linear condition—it has qualities of length
and direction—and includes movement and promotes views along
its path
For definition of axis—it (axis) must be terminated at both of its
ends by a significant form or space
The notion of axis can be reinforced by defining edges along its length
And axis can also be established simply by a symmetrical arrangement
of forms and spaces
Axial condition can exist without symmetrical condition—however a
symmetrical condition cannot exist without implying an axis or a
center about which the symmetry endures
Example:
Town plan of temple city of Madurai, India
Great temple of Amun at Karnak, Egypt
Symmetry:
The balanced distribution and arrangement of equivalent forms and
spaces on opposite sides of a dividing line or plane or about a center
or axis
There are two fundamental types of symmetry i.e. bilateral symmetry
and radial symmetry
Bilateral symmetry refers to the balanced arrangement of similar or
equivalent elements on opposite sides of a median axis so that
only one plane can divide the whole into essentially identical halves
Example: Nalu kattu veedu, Kerala
Radial symmetry refers to the balanced arrangement of similar,
radiating elements such that the composition can be divided into
similar halves by passing a plane at any angle around a center point
or along a central axis
Example: Great Stupa at Sanchi
Symmetry:
An architectural composition can utilize symmetry to organize its
forms and spaces in two ways
An entire building organization can be made symmetrical
Example
At some point of time any totally asymmetrical arrangement must
confront and resolve the asymmetry of its site or context
Example
A symmetrical condition can occur in only a portion of a building
and organize an irregular pattern of forms and spaces about itself.
The symmetrical condition itself can be reserved for significant or
important spaces within the organization
Local symmetry allows a building to respond to exceptional conditions
of its site or program
