PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN
Understanding the principles of design is a crucial aspect of architecture because of its ability to create order within an architectural composition.
Diversity, hierarchy, and complexity are also required when designing buildings. Hence, the forms and spaces in the building could accommodate its occupants, the purpose, and to portray its meaning.
Diversity and order are always paired to produce a sense of unity within an architectural composition. Order without diversity is monotonous and inconspicuous, while diversity without order is chaotic.
Baths of Caracalla, Rome.
Axis
A line produced by two lines in space. about which forms and spaces can be arranged in a symmetrical or balanced manner.
Symmetry
The balanced distribution and arrangement of equivalent forms and spaces on opposite sides of a dividing line or a plane, or about a centre or axis.
Hierarchy
The articulation of the importance or significance of a form or space by its size, shape, or placement relative to the other forms and spaces of the organization.
Rhythm
A unifying movement characterized by a patterned repetition or alternation of formal elements or motifs in the same or modified form.
Datum
A line, plane, or volume that, by its continuity ad regularity, serves to gather, measure, and organize a pattern of forms and spaces.
