1. Introduction
Architecture and geometry are symbiotic in nature, virtually an inseparable pair.
Understanding the principles of lines, planes, solids, patterns and surfaces are integral to
the architect’s design concept. Regardless of the magnitude of the project, be it the
construction of the St. Peter’s Basilica or a nondescript factory plant, the architect’s
understanding of geometry is crucial. On the other hand, if geometry is not employed by
architects, the understanding of the subject would merely be a scholarly exercise. The
knowledge of geometric principles by the architect empowers him to use geometry as an
instrument to realize his creativity. A balance of the science and the artistic would result
in the erection of many structures of great beauty that would enhance our quality of life.
The amalgamation of geometry and architectural design is evident throughout
history. The angles of inclination of the walls of the Egyptian pyramids were determined
4600 years ago by a geometric construction. Even today, geometry is used to great effect
with modern and abstract constructions such as the Guggenheim New York, consisting of
a symphony of triangles, circles and arcs.
This project is not one that charts the development of Singapore architecture.
Rather, it is a project that explores the different relationships between geometry and
architecture in Singapore since 1819. Through the course of this project, we have also
discovered an interesting trend towards an increase in the amount of geometry being
incorporated into modern buildings, resulting in an interesting blend of the traditional and
the avant-garde.
It is hoped that this project will help make readers be more alert of their
surroundings and not merely see buildings as blocks of steel, glass or concrete but think
of them as machines that have been put together by many simple elements.
2.1 An introduction to the Primary Solids 2
Any building, no many how sophisticated the design, is made up of primary shapes that
have been cleverly put together. Primary solids are the building blocks of the world. The
primary shapes can be extended or rotated to generate volumetric forms or solids which
are distinct, regular and easily recognizable. Circles generate spheres and cylinders;
triangles generate cones and pyramids,; squares generate cubes. In this context, the term
solid does not refer to firmness of substance but rather to a three-dimensional geometric
figure.
The Cube
A prismatic solid bounded by 6 equal square
sides, the angle between any 2 adjacent faces
being a right angle. Because of the equality of its
dimensions, the cube is a static form that lacks
apparent movement or direction. It is a stable
form unless it stands on one of its corners or
edges. Even though its angular profile is affected
by out point of view, the cube remains a highly
recognizable form.
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