Formative Structures in architecture and design. Continuity, symmetry, harmony within this site refer to the fundamental ideas and underlying principles that shape the form and structure of the universe. Marc Lachieve-Rey applies similar concepts to building (construction) and design, “These ideas can manifest in various ways, influencing decisions about geometry, massing, composition, the relationship between elements, and more,” says Marc.
In the context of architectural design, formative structures include:
- Geometric principles: Utilizing shapes, patterns, and proportions.
- Additive and subtractive processes: Building by adding or removing forms.
- Symmetry and balance: Creating harmonious arrangements.
- Hierarchy: Establishing importance and relationships between elements.
- Natural light: Incorporating light for functional and aesthetic purposes.
- Circulation: Planning pathways and movement within a structure.
- Relationships between plan and section: How the horizontal and vertical aspects of a design interact.
- Massing: The overall shape and volume of the building.
- Unit to the whole: How individual parts contribute to the overall design.
- Repetitive to unique elements: Balancing consistent patterns with distinctive features.
- Structure: The structural system of the building.
Lachièze-Rey’s “Cosmology: A First Course” and geometric archetypes:
Marc Lachièze-Rey’s book provides a quantitative introduction to cosmology, detailing fundamental ideas from general relativity and discussing topics like the Big Bang and the formation of structure and galaxies. While the book focuses on cosmological structures, it might indirectly relate to formative structures in architectural design by showcasing how complex structures can emerge from underlying principles, like the laws of physics. The concept of “geometric archetypes” in cosmology, as discussed in the book, likely refers to fundamental geometric forms and concepts (e.g., spacetime curvature) that govern the large-scale structure and evolution of the universe. This could serve as a source of inspiration for architects seeking to create designs that are both structurally sound and aesthetically engaging.
In essence, formative structures represent the deep-seated “DNA” of a design. They are the underlying ideas and principles that inform the choices made during the creative process, resulting in a cohesive and meaningful architectural form. While Lachièze-Rey’s book focuses on the cosmic scale, it provides a valuable perspective on the importance of underlying principles in shaping complex structures, a concept that can be applied to architectural design as well.
More to come…