• Introduction
• Form
• Space
• Order
• Proportion
• Structure

Static/Dynamic Space

Architects can never forget that structures exist for human use, and they thus have to build with human perceptions in mind. As people see a structure, they think of it as either “static” or “dynamic.” Static structures appear still and solid. For example, rectangular skyscrapers are static structures. Dynamic structures draw the eye in movement to various parts of the composition; the whole cannot be taken in at a glance. Buildings that have curved or diagonal lines appear dynamic.

There is a place for both static and dynamic structures because of their effect on a viewer’s emotions. Static spaces are calming and dynamic spaces are exciting. Designers must consider the reaction they want to evoke with their structures.