Centric forms in architecture and urban planning in analogues to primary biological structures

• Autorzy: Piesik Jarosław

Identyfikatory

DOI

10.29119/1641-3466.2025.223.26

• Języki publikacji: EN

Abstrakty

EN

Purpose: The article is part of the current issues of human ecology, and particularly the biophilia trend, which focuses on the relationships between humans and nature and their adaptation to the environment, which enables them to survive and function freely in it. The aim of the research is to compare the structures of primary microorganisms from the algae group (diatoms and green algae) and architectural forms produced by humans in terms of the occurrence of radial symmetry as well as centric forms, which humans have used to consciously shape the nearest space since the beginning of their existence. Design/methodology/approach: The article analyses the spatial structures of algae organisms from the diatom and green algae classes, as well as spatial structures produced by humans in the period from the 2nd millennium BCE to the 19th century CE. The comparison was made by examining individual elements of the composition responsible for harmony, maturity and beauty, which are: compositional axes, rhythms (produced by single and repeatable structural elements) and the central point, which are always derived from the occurrence of radial symmetry in nature. Findings: The results revealed the occurrence of similar spatial structures in both algae forms and human structures. Basically, two types of forms were distinguished: Type no. 1: the structure of the organism based on a star-shaped plan; elongated and slender arms with constant proportions are the basic elements of a two-dimensional composition; radial symmetry consists of several axes and does not exceed eight-radius symmetry; the central point at the base of the composition is built on a circular plan and is small in size. Type no. 2: the structure of the organism based on a circular plan. Algae are characterized by a compact and concentrated form created from many identical cells, which in space constitute elementary particles, permanent modules responsible for the cohesion and balance of the composition; the number of axes of radial symmetry that can be distinguished in individual species is much greater than in representatives of the first type and ranges from a dozen to several dozen axes of symmetry; structures of the system built on the radii of several circles, the central point of which is the center of the composition; individual spatial points spaced at the same distance from each other create a fixed module based on the same proportions, which, processed in fixed rhythms and in various spatial arrangements, creates the structure of the organism. Research limitations/implications: Only two of the six groups of algae were accepted for the study, which constitute only one of the five kingdoms occurring in nature. It is probable that they represent only a narrow fragment of reality. Considering the fact that the natural world is based on radial symmetry in many aspects, the study of the structure of individual primary groups of organisms should be extended to other kingdoms and groups. Social implications: Man subconsciously strives to imitate the structures of nature and create usable forms, among others, based on radial symmetry. The method of shaping space based on the composition of primitive algae presented in the article can be used, among others, in urban planning to create city plans and shape functional and harmonious spaces. Compositions based on star symmetry are always legible, determine spatial dominants and increase the comfort of life of its inhabitants. Radial symmetry can also be helpful in creating contemporary architectural objects, which will be based on repeatable rhythms and a central point, which will allow for a clear and logical layout of space. Radial symmetry not only organizes space, but also creates a universal pattern that is naturally understandable and comfortable for humans. The repeatability and proportions typical of radial symmetry resemble systems found in nature, which has a positive effect on the psyche of users. All this means that radial symmetry can become a tool for designing universal, repeatable and scalable architectural solutions. It can be used both on a small scale, from detail to large-scale urban layouts. Originality/value: The article presents an attempt to analyze and systematize the structural features of the original group of organisms with centric forms, such as algae, in terms of compositional features based on radial symmetry and relating these results to spatial structures created by humans. This type of research can influence a better understanding and dissemination of the idea of radial symmetry in design, where we will always find tools responsible for the sense of beauty such as: composition, rhythm and proportions. The article is addressed primarily to architects and planners who are responsible for maintaining spatial order in the urbanized environment, creating a space that is harmonious with nature.

Słowa kluczowe

EN

radial symmetry; biophilia; organic form; algae

PL

symetria promienista; biofilia; forma organiczna; glony

• Wydawca: Wydawnictwo Politechniki Śląskiej
• Czasopismo: Zeszyty Naukowe. Organizacja i Zarządzanie / Politechnika Śląska
• Rocznik: 2025
• Tom: z. 223
• Strony: 447--467
• Opis fizyczny: Bibliogr. 23 poz.

Twórcy

autor

Piesik Jarosław

• University of Zielona Góra, Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning

• https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8430-7012

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