Study 02/15 02 — Architectural Elements and Design Principles with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
What distinguishes an architectural element from a design principle?
An element is a component of architectural experience or composition; a principle organizes relationships among those elements. A wall is an element, while rhythm is a principle.
Why is space considered architecture’s primary medium?
Space is architecture’s primary medium: buildings define, divide, connect, frame, and transform it. It may be enclosed, open, between, vertical, continuous, or layered.
What does mass mean in architectural design?
Mass is the solid, substantial volume of a building or building part. It can provide enclosure, permanence, shadow, and visual weight.
How does architectural scale differ from measured size?
Scale concerns size in relation to something else, such as the body, a room, neighboring buildings, streets, or the landscape. It is not identical to measured size.
What is proportion in architecture?
Proportion is the relationship among dimensions, such as a window’s width and height or a room’s size and ceiling height. It establishes relationships, emphasis, and coherence.
What does architectural rhythm organize?
Rhythm is the organized repetition or alternation of elements. It may be regular, alternating, progressive, interrupted, or implied.
How can asymmetrical balance create equilibrium?
Asymmetrical balance achieves equilibrium through differences in size, position, color, texture, or visual weight rather than mirroring elements across an axis.
What is architectural hierarchy?
Hierarchy establishes relative importance among rooms, paths, openings, or façade elements. It can use size, height, position, light, material, shape, color, or accessibility.
What experience does linear circulation create?
A linear circulation sequence creates direction and progression through a building. Other arrangements include radial, grid, and loop patterns.
How does compression and release shape movement?
Compression and release use a constricted passage followed by a larger, brighter, or more important room to create spatial contrast and architectural drama.
What is filtered architectural light?
Filtered light is modulated by screens, louvers, trees, fabric, or patterned openings. It softens or controls illumination while shaping atmosphere and visual emphasis.
How does the Pantheon’s oculus affect architectural experience?
The Pantheon’s oculus provides natural illumination and directs attention toward the moving sun. It therefore functions as both a light source and a focusing device.