ORGANISING PRINCIPLES

They help in defining and arranging elements (forms) and functions

(spaces) in a workable way.

These principles can be applied on contextual basis, sometimes in an

individual way or sometimes in combination.

They give clarity and importance to each element in design based on its
relevance and level in any system.
AXIS

An imaginary line established

by two points in space, about which

forms and spaces can be arranged.

It is the simplest way of

arranging elements i.e. around and

along a central imaginary line. Axis
is essentially a linear condition and
therefore has qualities of length and
direction.

RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN, NEW DELHI

Edges can be defined along the length of the axis.

An axis must be terminated at both of its ends by a significant form

or space.

These terminating elements can be any of the following:

1.

Points in space established by vertical, linear elements or centralized

building forms. Ex: Qutb Minar, NewDelhi

QUTB MINAR, DELHI

2. Vertical Planes such as building facades. Ex: Lincoln Memorial, Washington

DC.

3. Well defined spaces generally centralized or regular in form. Ex: Plaza, St.
Peters, Rome
LINCOLN MEMORIAL, WASHINGTON D.C.

LINCOLN
MEMORIA
L

WASHINGTON
MONUMENT

U.S CAPITOL
BUILDING

ST. PETERS SQUARE, ROME

4. Gateways that open outwards, towards a view or vista beyond. Ex: Gateway of India,
Mumbai, India Gate, New Delhi, Charminar etc.

GATEWAY OF INDIA, MUMBAI

Any design can be interpreted in terms of axis which makes the reading or

understanding of design simpler especially when seen in large complexes, traffic

systems etc.
Conditions established by Axis:
1. Linearity: A progressive pattern of arrangement where the elements are adjacent to

each other along a defined axis. Ex. Uffizi Palace, Florence

UFFIZI PALACE, FLORENCE

2. Primary and Secondary axis: From a major axis (primary axis) there can be smaller

axis (secondary axis) getting generated and attached to the main axis. Ex: W.A. Glasner
House, Glenco, Illinois

3. Multiple axes: Most arrangements or designs have elements arranged on either single

axis or multiple axes. Ex: Darwin D. Martin House and Estate, Buffalo, New York

Darwin D. Martin House and Estate,

Buffalo, New York