Classical architecture has long been revered for its timeless beauty, symmetry, and attention to detail. From ancient Greek temples to Roman structures, classical architectural elements have influenced countless architectural styles throughout history. Behind their captivating facades lie secret meanings and design practices that have stood the test of time. Today we’ll explore some secrets of classical architectural elements, uncovering the principles that have made them symbols of excellence.
The Golden Ratio: Harmonious Proportions
One of the most fundamental secrets of classical architecture is the use of the golden ratio, a mathematical ratio that is considered visually appealing and harmonious. This ratio, approximately 1.618, is often found in the proportions of classical buildings. From the dimensions of rooms to the sizing and placement of windows and doors, the golden ratio ensures a sense of balance and symmetry that pleases the human eye. This principle of proportion extends to entire structures, with the ratio guiding the relationship between different architectural elements.
Columns: Elegance and Structural Integrity
Columns are iconic elements of classical architecture, symbolizing strength, stability, and beauty. Five columnar orders comprise the core of classical architecture: Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian & Composite. The Doric order is known for its simplicity and strength, the Ionic for its slender and decorative design, and the Corinthian for its intricate capitals with Acanthus leaf detail. Each order has its own distinct proportions and decorative details, showcasing the expressive fluency of ancient craftsmen. The fully expressed order with columns not only adds visual appeal to a design, but also illuminates the way structure holds itself up. We call this tectonics, and it’s one of the most important stories that a column tells.
Entablature: The Place Above the Columns
The entablature, situated atop the columns, is a central architectural element in classical design. It consists of three main components: the architrave, frieze, and cornice. The architrave rests directly on the columns and plays the role of a beam: expressing the tectonic need for horizontal structure. Above it, the frieze offers an opportunity for artistic expression, sometimes featuring intricate reliefs or details specific to the order expressed. Finally, the cornice crowns the entablature, adding a projecting detail which provides practical protection from rain for the building's exterior walls.
Pediments: Telling Stories in Triangles
Pediments are usually triangular-shaped spaces found above entrances or on the facades of classical buildings. They provide a focal point and can also serve as a canvas for sculptural relief or other decorative motifs. Sculptural pediments often depict mythological scenes or symbolic representations that tell culturally important stories or reflect the purpose of the building. The triangular shape of the pediment comes from the natural need for what we now call a gable roof to shed water. As the expression of pediments has evolved from the classical era, segmental curved pediments (and rooflines) have emerged as an alternative to the classical gable-end triangle.
Symmetry: The Quest for Balance
Classical architecture places strong emphasis on symmetry, which creates a sense of order and balance. Symmetry is achieved through the careful arrangement of architectural elements, such as windows, doors, and columns, in a way that their arrangements mirror one another across a center line. The pursuit of symmetry extends from the exterior into the interior spaces of classical buildings. This design principle instills a feeling of harmony and tranquility, making classical structures visually pleasing and inviting to occupants and visitors alike. Beyond simple bilateral symmetry, the pursuit of compositions guided by the principle of balanced asymmetry is also important to designing classical buildings.
The information encoded in classical architectural elements reveals meticulous attention to detail and aesthetic principles that define this enduring architectural style. The golden ratio, columns, entablatures, pediments, and symmetry work together to create structures that exude elegance, balance, and timeless beauty. By understanding these elements and the secret principles guiding their proper use, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and design principles that have made classical architecture a source of inspiration for architects throughout history.