Proportion refers to the relationship between parts of a structure and the whole (or the relationship between parts). Architects design structures to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional, and proportional systems convey a sense of order to a structure that appeals to the eye.
When parts of a structure are in proportion to each other, the result is “harmonious,” that is, it looks pleasing and congruous. “Discord” occurs when parts are out of proportion and thus out of balance with each other.
McKim, Mead, and White Boston Public Library,1887-95
Boston, Massachusettes
Karl Friedrich Schinkel Altesmuseum,1823-28
Berlin, Germany
Frank Lloyd Wright Unity Temple,1906
Oak Park, Illinois
Moore, Lyndon, Turnbull, and Whitaker Ranch Condominiums,1963-65
San Francisco
Piano and Rogers Pompidou Center,1976
Paris, France
Chicago Skyline
In the Greek temple the Parthenon, the columns on the corners are slightly wider than the ones in the center to counteract the optical illusion that columns on the end of a row appear narrower to the viewer. Here proportion is manipulated to achieve visual harmony.
Using the examples of Harmony and Discord as points of reference, click on Build It and adjust the structures so that they create harmony or discord.
