FS&O: Design Concepts Part 2: Form

Primary Solids

A primary solid is a primary shape (such as a square, circle or triangle) that is expanded to create a volume that is easy to recognize. For example, a square becomes a cube and a circle becomes a sphere or cylinder and a triangle becomes a cone or pyramid. In the example below, Le Corbusier has transformed a square into a cube in the structure of his design for his famed Villa Savoye in France. In the final diagram, note how prominent the cube shape is in his design. It was used to determine the shape of the house itself.

Photo Source: http://www.minimalismic.com/blog/2010/10/le-corbusier/

Dimensional Transformation

Dimensional transformation occurs when a form is changed dimensionally. For example, a cube might be stretched into a rectangular shape. In the example below, a side table and couch parts were stretched from their original cube shape. This shape is repeated throughout the room and diagrammed in the final black and white below.

Photo Source: http://www.trendir.com

Subtractive Forms

A subtractive form occurs when a form is changed dimensionally by taking away a portion of it. If the edges, corners and overall profile remains, then the shape is easily recognizable, such as in the image below of a table, where its original shape would have been a cylinder/sphere. Parts were then cut out to create the resulting form.

Photo Source: http://www.lessardgroup.com/web/page/609/sectionid/557/pagelevel/2/interior.html

Additive Forms

An additive form occurs when a form is stuck on to its volume. There are several relationships that can occur, such as: centralized form, linear form, radial form, clustered form and grid form. The image below is a bird's eye view of Eastern State Penitentiary, known for its radial form. It has a central position with radiating arms that can clearly be seen in the black and white diagram below.

Photo Source: http://www.hauntedamericatours.com/ghosts/easternstate.php

Formal Collision of Geometry

Formal Collision of Geometry occurs when two forms of different geometry collide, challenging each other for dominance. The example below shows a collision of geometry between a circle and a square. Combined they form the beautiful arc on the fireplace, creating a new form. This interaction between the square and circle can also be seen in the black and white diagram below.

Photo Source: http://www.painting-powerwashing.com/