It is enough to walk around in any city to notice that many architectural works are based on geometric shapes. This is not something aesthetic or purely stylistic. The main reason is that architecture is a science that joints several disciplines and areas, as it is the case of geometry.
This subject has special
importance within architecture. In fact, there is a branch called geometric
architecture. Do you want to know what it is? We will define you what geometric
architecture is, why it is relevant in architecture and what aspects of the
subject greatly influence the architectural works.
What is
geometry and why is it relevant in architecture?
Geometry is considered one of
the oldest sciences, being a branch of mathematics where lengths, areas and
volumes become more important. This branch deals with geometric shapes and
their properties, both in planes and in spaces.
Geometry has been present in
architecture since its beginnings. Within this context, in classical architecture
-from ancient Greece and Rome- we see that it acquires its own language and
style when the elements relate to each other and geometric shapes create
harmony and proportion in buildings.
If we focus on modern
architecture, geometry is a key element of buildings. All of them, in general,
create geometric spaces where the economy of means takes on special relevance.
The mission of geometric architecture is to economize buildings, saving
in materials and maximazing the use of space . Materials are resonably used and
useful space is not wasted.
In Geometric architecture the
different elements and designs are made with simple and specific strokes. The
correct interpretation of the use of geometry in architecturesimplifies the
calculation of structural load and also considers its relation with the logic
of construction.
Geometric aspects influencing architecture
As we have already mentioned,
there are aspects related to geometry that have a direct impact on
architectural practices. These are some of the most important ones.
Modularity
When we design any
architectural work, there are modules that are the similar to others, in order
to enhance the construction with harmony, symmetry and plasticity. Modularity
also simplifies construction, in general.
Polygonal and circular shapes
Polygonal shapes consist of a
surface portion containing several points aligned in the plane, so that none of
the connecting lines pass through more than two of them at a time. For
instance, door and window frames. They are rectangles or squares, with
180-degree rotations when you open them.
Geometric representation
The representation of
geometric shapes is mostly done by specialized software, where the data is
introduced and, if necessary, the relevant calculations are made in order to
execute the architectural work.
Structural inclination
The geometrical resources
available today allow the development of vertical calculation techniques to
work with the increasing heights of many buildings or dwellings.
Hyperboloids
The hyperboloid is obtained by
rotating a hyperbola around one of the axes of symmetry. This geometric
shape is often used to make columns, chimneys and light entrances with a large
surface area.
Conoidal and cylindrical
shapes
If you visualize a spiral
staircase, you can see the conoidal geometric shape contained in it, but it is
also used in columns, tunnels or chimneys.
Bends and arcs
Bends and arcs are also used
in windows and doors. Semicircles, elliptic, parabolic, etc. There are many
geometric shapes used for the creation of arches and curves and with which
horseshoe shapes, lobed, arches, etc. are achieved.
Polyhedral shapes
The polyhedrons most commonly used in architecture are cubes and octahedrons. The application of these shapes in architecture results in buildings characterized by achieving proportionate and harmonious spaces, obtaining functionally comfortable and resistant spaces that also favor their integration with the rest of the spaces in the building.
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