Architectural and Visual Design Principles

Architectural Design Principles

• Architecture defined as everything an architect designs, focusing on utility, structure, and beauty.
• Utilitas (Utility): Emphasizes the practical and social aspects of architecture.
• Firmitas (Structure): Focuses on the durability and objective strength of buildings.
• Venustas (Beauty): Explores the subjective delight found in architectural design.

Visual Design Principles

• Balance: Equal distribution of elements for stability.

  • Symmetrical balance exemplified by the Taj Mahal in India.
  • Asymmetrical balance illustrated by Robie House in Chicago.
  • Radial balance seen in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan.
  • Vertical and horizontal balances represented by L'Oceanogràfic in Valencia and Chi Lin Temple in Hong Kong, respectively.

• Rhythm/Repetition: Utilizes repeated elements for visual flow.

  • Regular rhythm shown in Cube House, Rotterdam.
  • Random rhythm in Saint Basil's Cathedral, Moscow.
  • Gradated rhythm seen in Sun Pagoda, Guangxi.

• Emphasis: Draws attention to focal points through size, placement, and shape.

  • Centralized locations and contrasting geometric forms enhance emphasis.

• Proportion and Scale: Establishes relationships between design elements; the 3:5 ratio known as the Golden Mean.

• Movement: Conveys a sense of action and flow within the design.

• Contrast: Achieved through differences in color, shape, and texture to create visual interest.

• Unity: Consistency in design elements fosters a cohesive appearance.

Color Perception in Architecture

• Colors significantly influence psychological and physiological responses, creating ambiance.
• Understanding color perception aids designers in crafting supportive spaces.
• Faber Birren’s Contributions:
  • Father of Applied Color Psychology.
  • Established OSHA colors and professional color consulting.

Effects of Specific Colors

• Red: Aggressive, associated with vitality or violence; stimulates excitement.
• Yellow: Cheerful and attention-demanding; can be stimulating or upsetting.
• Orange: Stimulating, positive (extroverted) but can be overwhelming in large amounts.
• Brown: Restful, evokes warmth; if used alone may feel heavy.
• Gray: Neutral, can feel cold or boring; often lacks psychotherapeutic benefits.
• White: Clean and bright but may evoke sterility or emptiness.
• Purple: Soothing, suggests dignity; can be perceived as melancholic.
• Blue: Calming, helps concentration; can induce feelings of sadness or coldness.
• Green: Refreshing and tranquil; symbolizes nature, but can connote mold or illness.
• Pink: Varied effects from lively to calming; often feminine.
• Black: Ominous, represents depth and abstraction; can feel oppressive.

Color Usage in Different Environments

• Residential: Family-friendly colors accommodating varying tastes.
• Commercial: Rich and harmonious colors enhancing occupant wellbeing and efficiency.
• Industrial: Considers artificial lighting effects on colors; avoids shadows and glare.
• Institutional: Creates inviting atmospheres, crucial for patient and staff environments.
• Educational: Balance between stimulation and avoiding overstimulation to support learning.

Bezold Effect

• Describes how color perception changes based on surrounding colors.
• Impact on uniform versus non-uniform backgrounds and lightness perception.

Color Theory Frameworks

• Monochrome: One color with black and white.
• Complimentary: Opposite color pairs with black and white.
• Analogous: Three adjacent colors with black and white.
• Split Complementary: One color with two neighboring opposite colors plus black and white.
• Double Split Complementary: Two colors beside their opposites with black and white.
• Triadic: Three equally spaced colors with black and white.