Design Principles Vocabulary

the harmonious relationship of parts to the whole

“Classical architecture follows strict rules of proportion.”

the size of elements relative to humans or other elements

“The grand scale of the lobby impressed visitors.”

repetition of elements creating visual movement

“The rhythm of windows unified the facade.”

balanced arrangement around a central axis

“Formal gardens display perfect symmetry.”

organizing elements by importance or dominance

“Visual hierarchy guides the eye to the entrance.”

the clear expression of a building's parts and structure

“The articulation of floors and columns was elegant.”

the arrangement of windows in a building

“Generous fenestration flooded the room with light.”

the movement of people through a building

“The atrium improved circulation between floors.”

the transitional space between inside and outside

“The threshold created a sense of arrival.”

the sensory qualities of materials used in design

“The warm materiality of wood contrasted with cool stone.”