Chapter VII

Principles

Axis is the imaginary line created between two points from which objects are positioned in an visually harmonic manner.  The axis suggest conformity, counterbalance is a must.  The division of visual elements determines the strength of the axis.  The axis is a line which contributes to the movement and direction along a visual field.  An axis must have a definite end formed by two specific areas.  An axis may be created by a symmertrical series of shapes or spaces.  This axis may be strenghtened by horizontal or vertical lines lines that correspondwith the axis.

The end points of the axis serve as both the beginning and end of  axial movement.  The ultimate principle of an axis may be produced by: 

positions in a field may be produced by vertical or horiziontal lines or centralized forms.

vertical facet created by a symmetrical form introduced by an open field.

specific spaces defined by central, consistant shapes.

entryways that open inwardly to the axis.

Symmetry is the balanced compisition of equal shapes and spaces on either side of a dividing line or central axis.  There are two basic forms of symmetry:

Bilateral symmetry is the balance of similar shapes and spaces on a median axis so that the one plane appears as two equal halves

Radial symmetry is the balance of similar radiating shapes so that the area may be divided into complementary halves around a center point or axis. 

Symetrical composition may be achieved in two ways.   An entire building may be in symmetry. Or a building or space may be may be designed with a central portion in symmetry with outward irregularities to resolve issues of asymmetry on a build site.

Hierarchy is the expression of relevance of a space by size, shape or placement.  A visual hierarchy among forms and space is essential in establishing the symbolic and functional differences among design elements.  A building or space may be seen as visually exceptional  by making the form or shape an deviation fromits surroundings.  This may be achived by making a shape or space: large in size, unique in shape or strategic in location.

Hierarchy by size is when a form or space is significantly grander in size than surrounding elements in the configuration.

Hierarchy by shape is when a form or space is clearly different from surrounding elements in a configuration. 

Hierarchy by placement is when a form or space is  placed in a manner that makes it stand out from the surrounding elements.  This may be achieved by:                                                                     a termination of a sequence or axis,                                                                                                           making a center point of a symmetrical grouping,                                                                                             the center of a radial or centralized grouping,                                                                                               being placed away from the grouping.

Datum is the is a volume, line or plane that gathers and organizes a sequence of shapes and spaces. Datum is similar to an axis in that it organizes a series of shapes and spaces along it's line.  Unlike an axis, a datum is not defined as a striaght line.  A datum may also be planar or volumetric.  A linear datum should have visual consistancey that intersects the spaces being formulated.  A planar or volumetric datum should have ample size, closure and consistancy so that it brings together the other shapes and spaces being organized within the area.

Rhythm and repetition is the consolidating movement of a pattern within a space. Rhythm is the basic idea f repetition as an elemnt to bring together forms and spaces in a design.  Most all structures contain repetitive rhythms. Beams, columns, windows and doors are repetative and rhythmic by design.  The proximity of space and the similarities of shape bring together elements  to form groups.  The principle of repetition brings together these groups to organize the visual repetition of a design. 

Transformation is the idea that a form or structure may undergo a series of minute changes in a reponse to conditions or needs without losing the basic concept of the design.  The principle of transformation allows an artist to use a prototype design and manipulate it to meet his specific design needs and conditions.