Axis & Symmetry of Ordering Principles in Architectural Drawing and Basics Design of Architecture

1. ARCHITECTURE
AXIS &
SYMMETRY
Name: Tafshirul Alam Mahi
Batch: 1st
Roll: 01
Subject: Design Theory

2. Contoso Ltd.
What is anAxis?
An axis is a line used to describe the location and orientation of a building or other
object. It is a line established by two points in space, about which forms and spaces
can be arranged in a regular or irregular manner. It is an imaginary line that can
denote structure, procession, direction, views, line of rotation and so on. An axis is
used to align elements in the design, and to arrange and plan spaces.
What is an Axis?
2
Since an axis is essentially
a linear condition, it has
qualities of length and
direction, and induces
movement and promotes
views along its path.
For its definition, an axis
must be terminated at
both of its ends by a
significant form or space.
The notion of an axis can be
reinforced by defining edges
along its length. These edges
can be simply lines on the
ground plane, or vertical
planes that define a linear
space coincident with the axis.
An axis can also be
established simply
by a symmetrical
arrangement of
forms and spaces.

3. Contoso Ltd.
Ordering Principles
3
“Salk Institute” is a famous architectural project by
Architect Luis I Kahn. It is a pure example of
architectural Axis.
“The Taj Mahal” at Agra is planned by following the
axis as a focal point to an entrance doorway so that the
building is focused on the central tomb chamber.

4. Contoso Ltd.
What is Symmetry?
A symmetrical object is the one that is equally proportioned, harmonious and balanced
around a specific line. In geometry a symmetrical figure is the one that when bisected by
an axis is divided into two areas which are mirror images of one another. An axis of
symmetry is a line that divides an object into two equal halves. This line creates a
reflection of either side of the object, like a mirror.
What is an Axis?
4
ThereareTwoFundamentalTypesofSymmetry:
1. Bilateral symmetry refers to the balanced
arrangement of similar or equivalent elements on
opposite sides of a median axis so that only one
plane can divide the whole into essentially identical
halves.
2. Radial symmetry refers to the balanced arrangement of
similar, radiating elements such that the composition can
be divided into similar halves by passing a plane at any
angle around a center point or along a central axis.

5. Contoso Ltd.
Ordering Principles
5
“Church of Light” is a famous architectural project
by Architect Tadao Ando. It is a pure example of
architectural Symmetry.
“The Lotus Temple” by Architect Fariborz Sahba at New
Delhi is planned by following the Symmetry as a focal
point to an emphasis, so that the temple is focused on
the central point of symmetry.

6. Thank You
THE END
Shamsul Arefin
Studio Teacher
Department of Architecture
World University of Bangladesh
Submitted To