DISSERTATION

Year: 2017-18
Batch No. 15

MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

Undertaken by:
ANKITA JAIN
Enrollment No.: 13E1AAARF4XP019
V Year B.Arch (A)

Prof. ANUBHAV MITTAL Prof. N.S.RATHORE

GUIDE COORDINATOR

Aayojan School of Architecture

ISI-4, RIICO Institutional Block,
Sitapura, Jaipur-302022
 APPROVAL

The study titled “Mirrored Asymmetry” is hereby approved as an original work of Ankita
Jain, enrolment no. 13E1AAARF4XP019 on the approved subject carried out and
presented in manner satisfactory to warrant its acceptance as per the standard laid down
by the university. This report has been submitted in the partial fulfillment for the award of
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Rajasthan Technical University, Kota.

It is to be understood that the undersigned does not necessarily endorse or approve any
statement made, any opinion expressed or conclusion drawn therein, but approves the
study only for the purpose it has been submitted.

December…..2017
Jaipur

Prof. K.S. MAHAJANI

EXTERNAL EXAMINER 1 PRINCIPAL

Prof. N.S. RATHORE

EXTERNAL EXAMINER 2 COORDINATOR

i
 DECLARATION

I, Ankita Jain, here by solemnly declare that the research work undertaken by me, titled
‘Mirrored Asymmetry’ is my original work and wherever I have incorporated any
information in the form of photographs, text, data, maps, drawings, etc. from different
sources, has been duly acknowledged in my report.

This dissertation has been completed under the supervision of the guide allotted to me by
the school. Further, whenever and wherever my work shall be presented or published it will
be jointly authored with my guide.

Ankita Jain
V Year B.Arch (A)
Aayojan School of Architecture, Jaipur

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the research titled, Mirrored Asymmetry is a bonafide work by Ankita
Jain of Aayojan School of Architecture, Jaipur. This research work has been completed
under my guidance and supervision in a satisfactory manner. This report has been
submitted in partial fulfillment of award of BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE degree from
Rajasthan Technical University, Kota.

This research work fulfills the requirements relating to the nature and standard laid down by
the Rajasthan Technical University.

Prof. Anubhav Mittal

Guide
Aayojan School of Architecture

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my

guide Prof. Anubhav Mittal for the continuous support of my study and
research. Without his assistance and dedicated involvement in every
step throughout the process, this study would have never been
accomplished.

Besides my advisor, I would like to thank: Prof. N. S. Rathore, Prof. Archana Singh
Rathore and Prof. A. K. Gupta, for their encouragement, insightful comments, and hard
questions.

My sincere thanks also goes to Ar. Ajit Jain (Architect – Praxis.inc, Bangalore) for giving
me the internship opportunity in his firm and leading me working on exciting projects.

Getting through my dissertation required more than academic support, and I have many,
many people to thank for listening to me. I thank my colleagues Brishti Biswas and Anmol
Sharma, for the stimulating discussions, Akanksha Sharma and Amarpreet Kaur for not
giving up on me, Bhini Bhardwaj and Ayushi Singhal for the extreme support with
sleepless nights working together before deadlines, and for all the fun we have had in the
last four years.

Last but not the least; I would like to thank my family: my father, late Mr. Rajendra Kumar
Jain whose belief in me made me come this far, my mother, for her love and support
spiritually throughout my life, she is my guidance. To my brothers and sisters who stand
beside me as a support to all my decisions. This dissertation stands as a testament to your
unconditional love and encouragement.

Ankita Jain
V Year B.Arch. (A)
Aayojan School of Architecture, Jaipur

iii
 CONTENTS
Page No.
Approval i
Declaration ii
Certificate ii
Acknowledgement iii
Contents iv-v
List of illustrations vi-ix
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 1 - 12
1.1 Definition/Meaning of Topic
1.2 Background Study
1.3 Significance
1.4 Need of the Study
1.5 Criteria of Selection
1.6 Research Question
1.7 Hypothesis
1.8 Objectives
1.9 Scope and Limitation
1.10 Methodology to prove Hypothesis
CHAPTER 2: SYMMETRY AND ASYMMETRY IN
ARCHITECTURE 13 - 35

2.1 Introduction
2.2 Parameters

2.1.1 On the Basis of Plan

2.1.2 On the Basis of Facade

2.3 Literature Case Studies

2.2.1 On the Basis of Plan

2.2.2 On the Basis of Facade

2.4 Survey

iv
CHAPTER 3: SYMMETRICAL PLAN WITH ASYMMETRICAL
FACADE 36 - 50
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Case Examples

CHAPTER 4: ANALYSIS 51 - 56
4.1 Literature Case Study
4.2 Survey
4.3 Analysis

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION 57 - 58
5.1 Conclusion

BIBLIOGRAPHY
ANNEXURES

v
 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Fig. Caption Source Pg.No.
No.
Fig. 1 Axis of Symmetry shown in buildings https://www.interaction-design.org 2
and various 2D figures

Fig. 2 Falcon Headquarters, Mexico https://en.wikipedia.org 3

Fig. 3 Heydar Aliyev Center, Azerbaijan https://en.wikipedia.org 3

Fig. 4 Asymmetrical Design https://www.interaction-design.org 3

Fig. 5 Stonehenge https://en.wikipedia.org 4

Fig. 6 Great Pyramid of Giza https://en.wikipedia.org 4

Fig. 7 Maison Carrée, Rome https://en.wikipedia.org 4

Fig. 8 Jerusalem's Dome of Rock https://en.wikipedia.org 4

Fig. 9 Hagia Sophia, Istanbul https://en.wikipedia.org 4

Fig. 10 Piazza del Duomo, Italy https://en.wikipedia.org 5

Fig. 11 Notre Dame, Paris https://en.wikipedia.org 5

Fig. 12 Trevi Fountain, Rome https://en.wikipedia.org 5

Fig. 13 (upper) United States Capitol, https://en.wikipedia.org 5

Washington; (lower) British Museum,
London

Fig. 14 Casa Milà, Spain https://en.wikipedia.org 6

Fig. 15 Buffalo City Hall, USA https://en.wikipedia.org 6

Fig. 16 Section of Walt Disney www.e-architect.co.uk 6

(Asymmetrical)

Fig. 17 Plan of Walt Disney’s Concert Hall www.e-architect.co.uk 6

(Symmetrical)

vi
Fig. 18 View of Walt Disney’s Concert Hall www.e-architect.co.uk 6

Fig. 19 Heydar Aliyev Center, Azerbaijan www.e-architect.co.uk 7

Fig. 20 Neue Nationalgalerie, Germany www.e-architect.co.uk 7

Fig. 21 Villa Savoye, France www.architecture-student.com 7

Fig. 22 Guggenheim Museum, New York www.architecture-student.com 7

Fig. 23 Vana Venturi House, Pennsylvania www.architecture-student.com 7

Fig. 24 Portland Building, USA www.architecture-student.com 7

Fig. 25 Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto www.architecture-student.com 8

Fig. 26 Beijing National Stadium, China www.architecture-student.com 8

Fig. 27 Plan of Pantheon, Rome https://www.cambridge.org 8

Fig. 28 Elevation of Pantheon, Rome https://www.cambridge.org 8

Fig. 29 Elevation of Falling Water, USA https://www.archdaily.com 9

Fig. 30 Plan of Falling Water, USA https://www.archdaily.com 9

Fig. 31 Plan of Riverside Museum, Glasgow https://www.dezeen.com 9

Fig. 32 Elevation of Riverside Museum, https://www.dezeen.com 9

Glasgow

Fig. 33 Reflectional Symmetry example https://www.interaction-design.org 15

“Lotus Temple”

Fig. 34 Rotational Symmetry example https://www.interaction-design.org 15

“Pentagon Building”

Fig. 35 Translational Symmetry example https://www.interaction-design.org 16

"Weissenhof Row Housing"

vii
Fig. 36 Glide Reflectional Symmetry https://www.interaction-design.org 16
example “Izola Social Housing”

Fig. 37 High Rise Apartments having http://www.greatbuildings.com 17

Asymmetrical façade; first from left
“Kanchanjunga Apartments,
Mumbai”, second from left “The
Cube, Beirut”, third from left “Garden
Tower, Wabern”, last “Turning Torso,
Sweden”
Fig. 38 Plan of “Apartment in Katayama, https://www.archdaily.com 19
Japan”

Fig. 39 Plan of “Tetris Apartments, Slovenia” https://www.archdaily.com 19

Fig. 40 Vana Venturi House, Pennsylvania http://www.greatbuildings.com 20

Fig. 41 Two-In-One House by GAAGA http://www.greatbuildings.com 21

Fig. 42 Floor plan of apartment in Aurumm https://www.archdaily.com 25

Residency, Gujarat

Fig. 43 Floor plan of Apartments Charlotte, https://www.archdaily.com 26

Berlin

Fig. 44 Spectrum Apartment, facade https://www.archdaily.com 28

towards the inner side of the site

Fig. 45 Spectrum Apartment, facade https://www.archdaily.com 28

towards the active side of road

Fig. 46 Option 1 https://www.archdaily.com 31

Fig. 47 Option 2 https://www.archdaily.com 31

Fig. 48 Site Plan of Kanchanjunga https://www.archdaily.com 38

Apartments

Fig. 49 Plan of type C floor and type D floor https://www.archdaily.com 39

Fig. 50 Elevations from all sides of the https://www.archdaily.com 39

building

Fig. 51 Part views stating materials and https://www.archdaily.com 40

colors used in the balcony

Fig. 52 Site Plan of Tetris Apartments https://www.archdaily.com 41

viii
Fig. 53 Plan of Tetris Apartments https://www.archdaily.com 42

Fig. 54 Various materials used on the https://www.archdaily.com 42

facade

Fig. 55 Facade with asymmetrical blocking https://www.archdaily.com 43

of windows

Fig. 56 Floor plan of Arkadia, depicting https://www.archdaily.com 44

symmetry

Fig. 57 Site Plan of Miracle Residence https://www.archdaily.com 45

Fig. 58 Elevational View https://www.archdaily.com 46

Fig. 59 Floor Plan https://www.archdaily.com 46

Fig. 60 North-West Elevation https://www.archdaily.com 46

Fig. 61 View of the building https://www.archdaily.com 47

Fig. 62 Floor Plan https://www.archdaily.com 48

Fig. 63 Elevation https://www.archdaily.com 48

Fig. 64 View inside the Ujaas, from between https://www.archdaily.com 49

the buildings

Fig. 65 Floor Plan https://www.archdaily.com 50

Fig. 66 Elevation https://www.archdaily.com 50

ix
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION
1.1 MEANING/DEFINITION OF THE
TOPIC
1.2 BACKGROUND STUDY
1.3 SIGNIFICANCE
1.4 NEED OF THE STUDY
1.5 CRITERIA OF SELECTION
1.6 RESEARCH QUESTION
1.7 HYPOTHESIS
1.8 OBJECTIVES
1.9 SCOPE AND LIMITATION
1.10 METHODOLOGY TO PROVE
HYPOTHESIS
 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 MEANING/DEFINITION OF THE TOPIC:

MIRROR
Mirror means to reflect in or as if in a mirror. Mirror is used to translate a single or
multiple features on the other side of plane.

SYMMETRY IN ART AND ARCHITECTURE

In Architecture, Symmetry is the reflection of shared forms, shapes, or angles across a
central line or point called the axis. Basically, components that mirror each other across
an axis are Symmetrical. This is one of the oldest and most continuously used ordering
principles in architecture.

Fig. 1: Axis of Symmetry shown in buildings and various 2D figures

Page 2; CH 1: INTRODUCTION
 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

ASYMMETRY IN ARCHITECTURE
Asymmetry is the absence of symmetry of any kind. Whenever we make a design that
consists of elements that we’ve distributed unevenly around a central point or axis, we’ll
consequently have an asymmetrical design. We can exploit asymmetry, using it to draw
attention to areas in the design or to convey dynamism or movement.

Fig. 3: Heydar Aliyev Center, Azerbaijan Fig. 2: Falcon Headquarters, Mexico

Asymmetrical designs are rhythmic and radiate a sense of activeness. When a designer
or an architect is making an asymmetrical design, he should take care that balance and
harmony of the structure is maintained. This would help prevent visual chaos; which is
very important if an architect wants people to feel pleasant and react positively.

Fig. 4: (a) (b)

For example as shown in Fig. 4 (a) Asymmetrical design but Unbalanced i.e. lack of
harmony and balance, creating visual chaos, where as in Fig. 4 (b) Asymmetrical design
but with Balance and Harmony i.e. rhythmic in nature.

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

1.2 BACKGROUND STUDY:

Evolution of Architecture through time and understanding the role and the principles of
Symmetry and Asymmetry.

PREHISTORIC TIMES
Prehistoric architecture includes monumental
structures such as Stonehenge, which didn’t follow
Symmetry.
Fig. 5: Stonehenge

ANCIENT EGYPT
In ancient Egypt, powerful rulers constructed
monumental pyramid s, temples, and shrines.

Fig. 6: Great Pyramid of Giza

CLASSICAL
Classical Orders, defined column styles and
entablature designs, continue to influence building
design in modern times.

Fig. 7: Maison Carrée, Rome

ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE
Islamic architecture finds its highest expression in
religious buildings such as the mosque and madrasah.
Examples are Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock (ad 691)
and the Great Mosque (705) in Damascus.
Fig. 8: Jerusalem's Dome of Rock

BYZANTINE
Use of brick instead of stone, domed roofs, elaborate
mosaics, and classical forms.
Fig. 9: Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

ROMANESQUE
Romanesque architecture with rounded arches, stone
materials with basilica style plan emerged.

Fig. 10: Piazza del Duomo, Italy

GOTHIC
Pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, flying buttresses, and
other innovations led to taller, more graceful
architecture. Gothic ideas gave rise to magnificent
cathedrals like Chartres and Notre Dame.

Fig. 11: Notre Dame, Paris

BAROQUE
Baroque style is reflected in opulent and dramatic
churches with irregular shapes and extravagant
ornamentation.

Fig. 12: Trevi Fountain, Rome

NEOCLASSICISM
A keen interest in ideas of Renaissance architect
Andrea Palladio inspired a return of classical shapes in
Europe, Great Britain and the United States. These
buildings were proportioned according to the classical
orders with details borrowed from ancient Greece and
Rome.
Fig. 13: (upper) United States Capitol,
Washington; (lower) British Museum,
London

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

ART NOUVEAU
Art Nouveau buildings often have asymmetrical
shapes, arches and decorative surfaces with curved,
plant-like designs.

Fig. 14: Casa Milà, Spain

ART DECO
Zigzag patterns and vertical lines create dramatic
effect on jazz-age, Art Deco buildings.

Fig. 15: Buffalo City Hall, USA

Deconstructivism is a movement of PostModernArchitecture which appeared in the

1980s, which gives the impression of the fragmentation of the constructed building. It
has a very well example of symmetrical plan and asymmetrical facade in Walt Disney’s
Concert Hall.

Fig. 16: Section of Walt Disney (Asymmetrical)

Fig. 17: Plan of Walt Disney’s Concert Hall (Symmetrical)

Fig. 18: View of Walt Disney’s Concert Hall

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

MODERNIST STYLES
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen dramatic changes and astonishing diversity.
Modernist styles have come and gone - and continue to evolve. Modern day trends
include Art Moderne and the Bauhaus school coined by Walter Gropius,
Deconstructivism, Formalism, Brutalism, and Structuralism.

Fig. 22: Guggenheim Museum, New York Fig. 21: Villa Savoye, France

Fig. 20: Neue Nationalgalerie, Germany Fig. 19: Heydar Aliyev Center, Azerbaijan
POSTMODERNISM
A reaction against the Modernist approaches gave rise to new buildings that re-invented
historical details and familiar motifs. Look closely at these architectural movements and
you are likely to find ideas that date back to classical and ancient times.

Fig. 23: Vana Venturi House, Pennsylvania Fig. 24: Portland Building, USA

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE – PRESENT

Contemporary architecture is the architecture of the 21st century. No single style is
dominant; contemporary architects are working in a dozen different styles, from
postmodernism and high-tech architecture. The different styles and approaches have in
common the use of very advanced technology and modern building materials and the
use of new techniques.

Fig. 26: Beijing National Stadium, China Fig. 25: Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto

TRANSFORMATION: SYMMETRY TO ASYMMETRY

We are all aware that classical architecture was dominated by symmetry.

Fig. 27: Plan of Pantheon, Rome Fig. 28: Elevation of Pantheon, Rome

Page 8; CH 1: INTRODUCTION
 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

In contrast, we have seen, in the 20th century, a shift from the dominating role of
symmetry to the gradual raising of asymmetry as the major principle. Famous examples
of the latter include Frank Lloyd Wright's “Falling Water”, with its asymmetrically
arranged blocks, or Eero Saarinen's “TWA” building with its free form structure, or in the
contemporary world, the Deconstructivist architects are now the dominant force.

Fig. 30: Plan of Falling Water, USA Fig. 29: Elevation of Falling Water, USA

The latter movement came into significant public recognition with the exhibition of their
work in the Museum of Modern Art, New York, in 1988, and these architects are now
the most famous architects in the world— usually winning the major architecture
competitions. They include Peter Eisenman, Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry, Coop
Himmelblau, Rem Koolhaas, Daniel Libeskind, and Bernard Tschumi. In all their
buildings, asymmetry is the major organizing factor.

Fig. 31: Plan of Riverside Museum, Glasgow Fig. 32: Elevation of Riverside Museum, Glasgow

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE:

To create an innovative design which can be the combination of Symmetrical plans and
Asymmetrical facades, keeping in consideration all the important or necessary
parameters of basic design.

1.4 NEED OF THE STUDY:

To understand the need of the users in the society while keeping in mind about the
visual appearance and functionality.

1.5 CRITERIA OF SELECTION:

Modernization has brought various trends that include Art Moderne and the Bauhaus
school coined by Walter Gropius, Deconstructivism, Formalism, Brutalism, and
Structuralism.
In this symmetry has evolved and asymmetry has taken the major role, but
asymmetrical plans with asymmetrical facades, as well as symmetrical plans with
symmetrical facade has been a common way of thinking and designing.
Facade articulations in simple yet complex ways which breaks the symmetry and
maintains the balance enhances the visual appeal.

1.6 RESEARCH QUESTION:

“Do buildings with asymmetric facade have an enhanced visual appeal?”

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

1.7 HYPOTHESIS:

“Buildings with Symmetric plans but Asymmetric facade may have an enhanced
physical function as well as visual appeal.”

1.8 OBJECTIVES:

1. To study the basic difference between symmetry and asymmetry in architecture

with respect to plan form and facade.
2. To study the parameters defining symmetry and asymmetry.
3. To analyze and study the asymmetrical facades of symmetrical plans with the
help of case studies.

1.9 SCOPE AND LIMITATION:

The scope of the study is as follows:

1. Apartments will be the limit for the study.

2. The study will limit itself to planning of a single floor in case of apartments.
3. The study will include modern style and after modern in architecture.

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

1.10 METHODOLOGY TO PROVE HYPOTHESIS:

OBJECTIVES DATA REQUIRED SOURCES

 To study the basic Literature Case study of Secondary Source - Web

difference between Symmetrical plans,
symmetry and Asymmetrical plans,
asymmetry in Symmetrical facade and
architecture with respect Asymmetrical facade.
to plan form and facade.

 To study the parameters Various examples stating Case Studies and web as
defining symmetry and the parameters defined. source
asymmetry.

 To analyze and study With the help of case Secondary Source - Web
the asymmetrical studies.
facades of symmetrical
plans.

Page 12; CH 1: INTRODUCTION

 CHAPTER 2

SYMMETRY AND ASYMMETRY IN

ARCHITECTURE
2.1 INTRODUCTION
2.2 PARAMETERS
2.3 LITERATURE CASE STUDIES
2.4 SURVEY
 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

CHAPTER 2: SYMMETRY AND ASYMMETRY IN ARCHITECTURE

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Now, we are going to talk about the two most powerful design principles of all the time,
that at first might look too simple and second glance would warrant too much thought.
Anyway, keeping a firm appreciation for Symmetry and Asymmetry and their uses, in
this chapter we will read more about it and the parameters which make them.

As we have had a brief introduction above (Page 2-3), we know that; a perfect
symmetry is when the elements are evenly distributed around a central axis or point,
and asymmetry is the absence of symmetry of any kind.

There are several types of symmetry:

 Translational symmetry
 Rotational symmetry
 Reflectional symmetry
 Glide – Reflectional symmetry

As going towards complexity, keeping a tight grip on symmetry can lead you to make
sterile layouts that lack visual appeal. Dynamism can only be found in asymmetrical
designs, as it can appear to be more alive and active, far from colder “flatness” of
symmetrical designs.

However, you may find symmetry often being used to provide clean and understandable
outlook. Usually while planning symmetry is used to develop familiarity with the layout.
Using symmetry is like giving benefit to people with learning disabilities or lesser
understanding capabilities.

When complexity increases, you will find that you can manage asymmetry more easily,
and with careful application, it can be used to call for attention which is generally the
idea while designing a facade.

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TYPES OF SYMMETRY1

1. Reflectional Symmetry - The axis of symmetry of a two-dimensional figure is parting

such that the two halves are identical: the two halves are each other's mirror image. It
is also called bilateral, line symmetry or mirror symmetry.

Fig. 33: Reflectional Symmetry example “Lotus Temple”

2. Rotational Symmetry - Rotation of a two dimensional fig at any angle from a fixed
point is an example of a rotational symmetry, also known as radial symmetry. It is the
property a shape has when it looks the same after some rotation by a partial turn.

Fig. 34: Rotational Symmetry example “Pentagon Building”

Referred fro I teractio Desig Fou datio

1

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

3. Translational Symmetry - Repeating a figure a certain distance in a certain

direction also called translating (moving) by a vector (length and direction).
Translational symmetry exists in patterns that we see in nature and in man-made
objects.

Fig. 35: Translational Symmetry example "Weissenhof Row Housing"

4. Glide-Reflection Symmetry - It combines a reflection with a translation along

the direction of the mirror line.

Fig. 36: Glide Reflectional Symmetry example “Izola Social Housing”

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

ASYMMETRY IN SKYSCRAPERS:

Building Heights: The skyscrapers are practically twice as high as the staggered
dwellings.

Layout of volumes: on one side, near regular intervals of space lie between the identical
constructions – the skyscrapers – while on the opposite side, the play of masses and
voids in the “staggered” dwellings creates a volumetric pattern.

Fig. 37: High Rise Apartments having Asymmetrical façade; first from left “Kanchanjunga Apartments, Mumbai”,
second from left “The Cube, Beirut”, third from left “Garden Tower, Wabern”, last “Turning Torso, Sweden”

But when it comes to symmetry in architectural design, making a symmetrical design is

easy but making it attractive and aesthetically pleasing is a little tough.
It is said that once symmetry is achieved; balance and harmony are satisfied
automatically which is why mostly designers prefer symmetrically designed elevations.

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2.2 PARAMETERS:

Symmetry and asymmetry work at many different scales: the overall composition may
be symmetrical, while individual components are asymmetrical and vice versa.
Architects try to balance two competing desires in design. On the one hand, they want
to bring order to their structures to make them understandable and pleasing. On the
other hand, order without diversity can be monotonous. Designers play with symmetry
and asymmetry in structures to achieve a harmonious balance. But to understand it
better there should be a set of Parameters defining Symmetry and Asymmetry based on
the placement of:

Parameters defining Symmetry and Asymmetry has been divided on two basis:
i) On the Basis of Plan, ii) On the Basis of Elevation.

2.1.1 On the Basis of Plan

To make a Design successful the planning should be well functional and functionality
can be judged from the following factors:

(i) Zoning
(ii) Circulation
(iii) Accessibility
(iv) Services
(v) Space Utilization

But on the other hand factor which distinguishes Symmetry from Asymmetry is:
Planform. Planform is the outline or silhouette of an object as viewed from above.
Factors like placement of services, staircases and windows try to break the symmetry,
but these do not dominate the planform factor.

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

For ex:

Fig. 38: Plan of “Apartment in Katayama, Japan”

In Fig. 38 we can see how the services, staircase and windows are acting, but it will still
be called symmetrical because of the planform. Another example:

Fig. 39: Plan of “Tetris Apartments, Slovenia”

Here also the symmetry is disturbed by placing the staircase and the entrance lobby,
yet again is dominated by the planform hence making it symmetrical.

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

2.1.2 On the Basis of Facade

Elevations/Facades is the skin of a building, hence keeping it balanced is very

important. As we know, symmetrically designed elevations automatically carries itself
with balance and harmony, it’s what keeping it still interesting is a matter of work.
Whereas, asymmetrical facades create curiosity and interest with balance well
maintained and not making it visually chaotic.
As we discussed, in planning, planform plays a major role subsiding other factors, but in
facades each factor is important i.e. placement of windows, size of windows, form
named to be few. A slightest shift or transformation makes the whole facade
asymmetrical.

Case I:

Fig. 40: Vana Venturi House, Pennsylvania

The Vanna Venturi house, by Robert Venturi, a very well example of Postmodern
Architecture. In this building the Symmetry is broken to Asymmetry from a slightest
transformation of windows.

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Case II:

Fig. 41: Two-In-One House by GAAGA

Dutch architecture studio GAAGA designed an asymmetrical facade to make two

houses look like one, by simply changing the window sizes and lintel level.

But as a matter of fact, even after all the design principles used on the façade there are
few parameters which may define the visual appeal in a building:

(i) Placement of Fenestrations

(ii) Material/Color on the façade
(iii) Use of Elements (for ex: balcony)
(iv) Scale
(v) Form

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Factors which contribute the most to make a Facade Asymmetrical are:

a) Typology
b) Scale
c) Climatic Conditions
d) Site
e) Aesthetics
f) Material
g) Technology

Typology: A building facade can be decided on the

basis of the typology of the building. Temples,
shrines, mosques preferably have a symmetrical
facade whereas malls can be treated by making it
asymmetrically attractive.

Temple Mall
Scale: A small scale project will have the least
possibility of making it symmetrical due to proper
space utilization and less rigidity. For ex: plotted
residences.

Plotted Residence facade

Climatic Conditions: Climatology has always
played a role in facade treatment, which makes this
factor a very important factor. Comfortability is a part
of functionality and it can be achieved by treating the
facade according to the climate, which in short leads
to asymmetricality.
72 screens, Jaipur

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

Site: Site location as well as site orientation also

parts in Asymmetrical facade. Climatic Conditions as
discussed above is a sub factor of this factor.
Buildings are placed according to the site i.e.
placement of roads, placement of activity areas or
major zones can decide how the facade can be
treated.
Falling Water by
FLW
Aesthetics: Aesthetics is the most important factor
amongst all. It allows the designer how he/she
wants the facade to be treated and make it visually
appealing as well as attractive.
Denver Arts Museum by
Daniel Libeskind

Material: Availability of materials or using it in such

a way on facade which doesn’t seem monotonous
can make it asymmetrical. In many buildings
materials are used as a way of color to make a
pattern or to depict something. It is an economical
way of treating a facade.

Walt Disney Concert Hall by

Frank Gehry
Technology: A change in technology through years
has brought a change in building design. 3D
softwares are now used which allows buildings to be
designed in various irregular forms.

Heydar Aliyev Centre by

Zaha Hadid

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

2.2 LITERATURE CASE STUDIES:

After finding about various factors determining the functionality and aesthetics let’s find
where it has been used:

2.2.1 On the Basis of Plan

Case studies selected are according to the following criteria:

(i) Both the plans are of 1 BHK modules

(ii) Both the plans have 4 flats on each floor
(iii) Both the plans have the same requirements, i.e. one bed room, one bathroom,
one kitchen, one living area, balcony

Case I:

Aurumm Residency, Gujarat

Floor area – 180 m2

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Symmetrical Plan -

Fig. 42: Floor plan of apartment in Aurumm Residency, Gujarat

Located in Shankheshwar, which is in the Patan district of Gujarat. Shankheshwar, a

small town with a lot many Jain Temples.

The site mainly comprises of 3 apartment buildings of studio apartment, 1bhk and 2bhk
apartments each with 5 floors. It also has amenities like swimming pool, small clinic,
gym, jogging track etc.

The Plan is purely symmetrical as shown in the above fig.

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Case II:

Apartments Charlotte, Berlin

Floor area – 160 m2

Asymmetrical Plan -

Fig. 43: Floor plan of Apartments Charlotte, Berlin

It is a building with 28 apartments, four on each floor. Floor plans of this building are
designed such to give its façade a rhythmic asymmetric look. Full Height windows with
the tapered form of balconies gives this building a charming appearance.

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2.2.2 On the Basis of Façade

Case studies have been chosen according to the facades, comparison is between the
symmetric facade and asymmetric facade.

Case studies selected are according to the following criteria:

(i) Site of both the facade are same

(ii) The two facades are of the same building

Due to the site accessibility (road) and weather conditions, both the façades are
designed differently.

Case:

Spectrum Apartments, Australia

Site Area – 7,400 m2

Situated on a site with three frontages, it was critical that the architecture address and
activate all three frontages but also be of a single architectural language.

On the symmetrical facade the “strips” geometrically alternate over the floor plates to
create highly articulated façades. On the asymmetrical facade, the balconies extruding
out with brightly colored fascia around it, adds a vibrant presence to the public realm.

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Symmetrical Facade

Fig. 44: Spectrum Apartment, facade towards the inner side of the site

Asymmetrical Facade

Fig. 45: Spectrum Apartment, facade towards the active side of road

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2.3 SURVEY:

To analyze the impact of asymmetrical façade and symmetrical plan a survey was
conducted amongst architects and architecture students for building typology
apartments. According to a total of 50 survey taken, these are the results:

2.3.1 Principle preferred

According to the survey it was shown that 50% people prefer working in
Asymmetricality, 32% in Symmetricality and 18% prefer to work in both.

2.3.2 Symmetrical Plan more functional than Asymmetrical

According to the survey it was shown that 42% architecture students said no for
Symmetrical to be more functional than Asymmetrical, 48% said Symmetrical plans are
more functional and 10% for both.

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2.3.3 Reason to plan Symmetrically in Apartments

It was shown that 54% people said because of easy setting out, 72% said Services was
a reason and 58% said because of Optimized Circulation found in Symmetrical plans.

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2.3.4 Comparison of Asymmetrical and Symmetrical Planning

On giving the two options below, a total of 70% said Symmetrical plan was better in
zoning, circulation, accessibility, services and space utilization, whereas 30% said
Asymmetrical plan was better.

Fig. 46: Option 1 Fig. 47: Option 2

45

35 35
32
28

22
18 15 15

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2.3.5 Asymmetrical Facade create better Visual Appeal than Symmetrical

According to the survey it was shown that 66% of people said yes for Asymmetrical
façade to give better visual appeal, 24% said no for the same and 10% said can’t say.

2.3.6 Factor contributing most to Asymmetrical Facade

According to the survey 36% said because of Typology, 40% said because of Scale,
50% said because of Climatic Conditions, 46% said because of Site Orientation, 78%
said because of Aesthetics, 34% said because of Material and 16% said because of
Technology that the facade can be Asymmetrical.

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2.3.7 Comparison of Asymmetrical and Symmetrical Facade

According to the survey it was shown that 68% people said 2nd option which was
Asymmetrical was visually appealing rather than option 1.

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According to the survey it was shown that 66% people said 2nd option which was
Asymmetrical was visually appealing rather than option 1.

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According to the survey it was shown that 94% people said 2nd option which was
Asymmetrical was visually appealing rather than option 1.

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 CHAPTER 3

SYMMETRICAL PLAN AND

ASYMMETRICAL FACADE
3.1 INTRODUCTION
3.2 CASE EXAMPLES
 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

CHAPTER 3: SYMMETRICAL PLAN AND ASYMMETRICAL FACADE

3.1 INTRODUCTION
In the previous chapter we learned about the parameters of Symmetry and Asymmetry,
the factors of functional plan as well as factors determining visual appeal.

In this chapter we are going to see the case examples, of various apartment buildings
with Symmetrical planning and Asymmetrical facade.

3.1.1 Why Symmetrical Plan and Asymmetrical Facade?

The concept is derived from what is going on in the present to what was in the past. In
the earlier styles, symmetry was given an emphasis, and was considered to be simple,
well balanced and in perfection. Today, when looked at the buildings and the
competition amongst people, the most attractive, bold and dynamic ones are the
choices and it is very well visible in Asymmetrical facades.

Symmetrical Plans are a choice when planning, as it simplifies planning and viewer’s
capability of understanding. It is also an obvious feature of good, practical and effective
design.

Asymmetrical facade is a need of the present style, an attention grabbing technique

which is interesting and thought provoking.

The best way to achieve the best is by mix and matching symmetrical and asymmetrical
concepts within a design project. Achieving balance by offsetting elements with space,
creating emphasis with motion, adding focus with color and using a grid for alignment
and organization.

Let us look onto various projects which have achieved the balance using symmetry in
plan and asymmetry in facade.

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3.2 CASE EXAMPLES

3.2.1 Kanchanjunga Apartments, India

Fig. 48: Site Plan of Kanchanjunga Apartments

Architects - Charles Correa

Location - Mumbai, India
Project Year - 1983

The location is on the edge of the planned 650 apartments.

The 28-story Kanchanjunga Apartments completed in Bombay has an ingenious
cellular planning as is evident from the interlock of the one and a half story, split-
level, 3 and 4 bedroom units with the two and half story 5 and 6 bedroom units.

Planning is done in a simplistic yet complex manner. Reflective Symmetry is

beautifully achieved but levels are created. Smaller displacements of level were

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critical in this work in that they differentiated between the external earth filled
terraces and the internal elevated living volumes.

Fig. 49: Plan of type C floor and type D floor

Building is oriented in east-west to catch the prevailing sea breeze. Its minimalistic
unbroken surfaces are cut away to open up the double height terrace garden at the
corners.

Fig. 50: Elevations from all sides of the building

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The random pocket like openings in the corners of the building make an interesting
rhythm on the south and the north facade which makes it asymmetrical, whereas on
the west and east facade the fenestrations are making it purely symmetrical.

Materials:
Concrete construction and large white panels, bears a strong resemblance to
modern apartment buildings. The garden terraces of Kanchanjunga apartments are
actually a modern interpretation of a feature of traditional Indian Bunglow: the
verandah.

Fig. 51: Part views stating materials and colors used in the balcony

Structure:
Whole structure is made of Reinforced Concrete. The building is a 32-storeyed
Reinforced Concrete structure with 6.3m cantilevered open terraces. The central
core houses lifts and other services also provides the main structural element for
resisting lateral loads.
With its concrete construction and large areas of white panels, bears a strong
resemblance to modern apartment buildings in the west.

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3.2.2 Tetris Apartments, Slovenia

Fig. 52: Site Plan of Tetris Apartments

Architect - Ofis Arhitekti

Location - Ljubljana, Slovenia
Area - 5000 sq.m
Project year - 2007

The location is on the edge of the planned 650 apartments which was finished year
ago. Also this apartment block is social type and was sold to slovenian housing fund.
Since the orientation of the building is towards the busy highway the apartment
opening together with balconies are shifted as 30 degrees window-wings towards
the quieter and south orientated side.

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Each apartment has view towards its own balcony. Intimacy is created and there will
be no direct views from ones apartment directly to the others in the opposite block.

Fig. 53: Plan of Tetris Apartments

Facade is made of economic but quality materials such as wooden oak floors,
granite tiled bathrooms and have large windows with external metal blinds. The
concept of structure is made in a way, that floor plans are flexible, since only
structural walls are those, that separate apartment shell from the rest of the building.
All other inner walls are non-structural.

Fig. 54: Various materials used on the facade

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3.2.3 Arkadia, Turkey

Fig. 55: Facade with asymmetrical blocking of windows

Architects - IND Architects

Location - Turkey
Architect in charge - Arman Akdogan, Felix Madrazo, Alejandro Gonzalez Perez,
Giorgio Renzi
Project Year - 2014

The area is a densely arranged fabric of isolated towers made in the last 50 years
usually in close proximity to each other.

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Fig. 56: Floor plan of Arkadia, depicting symmetry

The ground floor is permeable and allocates collective meeting spaces. The landing
of the tower to the ground uses this permeability and the landscape as a way to
articulate the horizontal and vertical surfaces by extending the grid like philosophy
into seemingly loose patches of grass, stone and water.
The new tower seen from afar shows a sober volume wrapped in a grid like
structure. As one approaches the building the envelope reveals the second layer of
the façades, which differentiate in character. A wood face made of prefabricated
panels dominates the wider facade layer while the slender facades are characterized
by the use of glass and plastics.
The façade rhythm of the grid improvises its character on top of a regular grid
structure, which in turn follows strictly the concrete structure of the tower. The
façade grid is a modular tertiary system made of steel, aluminum and plastics
composites.

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3.2.4 Miracle Residence, Turkey

Fig. 57: Site Plan of Miracle Residence

Architect - Bfta Mimarlik

Location - Harmandere mh., Kurtköy Kavşaği, 34912 Istanbul, Turkey
Building Size - 30,000 sqm
Area - 17000 sq.m
Project Year - 2012

The project is located at the Istanbul's Asian side near Sabiha Gokcen Int. Airport.
Site is some 50m.x300m. in dimensions, along southeast-northwest direction and
facing the highway at north.

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Miracle residence seems as a gate for this promising area. It consists two 100m
blocks creating 250m long hotel and residential block with the social facilities in
between. This 25mx250m long surface not designed as if it’s another ordinary
building in the area but, taken as a residential block design experiment.

Unique fibrecement blocks, compact wooden lamine panels, standardized windows

create its own harmony as design elements.

Fig. 58: Elevational View

Fig. 59: Floor Plan

Fig. 60: North-West Elevation

Translation symmetry in planning with facade totally asymmetrical, changing the

view point of the public, and adding uniqueness to it.

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3.2.5 The Cube, Lebanon

Architects - Orange Architects

Location - Sin El Fil, Beirut
Area - 5600 sq.m
Project Year - 2015

Fig. 61: View of the building

The design with the 14 stacked and rotated floor plans generates 19 attractive
apartments in total, ranging in size from 117 to 234 m², with fluid spaces, large
balconies and wall to wall window frames.
Fixed core with lifts and staircases at the heart of the building, there are no
constraints on the layout of the apartments.

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Fig. 62: Floor Plan

Fig. 63: Elevation

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3.2.6 Ujaas: The Condoville, Kolkata

Fig. 64: View inside the Ujaas, from between the buildings

Architects - Inscape, Ahmedabad

Location - Kolkata
Built Up Area - 36,245 sq m
Project Year - 2012

Residential units have been designed with two sides are shared walls to minimise
foot print on built form. Efficiently laid out residential units shared two common walls
to reduce heat gain, while the other two sides with maximum openings brings
enough natural light and cross ventilation.

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Fig. 65: Floor Plan

Elevation of the facade is acting asymmetrical, whereas the plan has lateral
symmetry. The external facade of staircase on both side of the axis is treated
differently using different materials and size of fenestrations.

Fig. 66: Elevation

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 CHAPTER 4

ANALYSIS
4.1 LITERATURE CASE STUDY
4.2 SURVEY
4.3 ANALYSIS
 Symmetrical Plan Asymmetrical Plan Observations

Zoning Symmetrical plan is

systematic in terms of
zoning, also it is easy to
understand because the
same is been repeated
CHAPTER 4: ANALYSIS

4.1 Literature Case Study

4.1.1 On the Basis of Plan

on the other side of the

axis, whereas in
asymmetrical, it is a little
head scratch to
understand zoning.

Circulation Circulation becomes

easy wherever the
planning is
systematic. Here,
the entrance in the
asymmetric plan can
create a chaos.

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MIRRORED ASYMMETRY
 Symmetrical Plan Asymmetrical Plan Observations

Accessibility Accessibility is easy

when you can judge
the place, which is
there in symmetrical
plan.

Services Services like water

supply pipes,
sanitation and
electricity box are
easy to place and
repair when needed
in symmetrical plan
rather than
asymmetrical.

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MIRRORED ASYMMETRY
 Symmetrical Plan Asymmetrical Plan Observations

Space Utilization Symmetrical plans have

rare chances of having a
deformed/unique shape,
which is not the same in
asymmetrical plan.
Planning in asymmetrical
plan with negative spaces
left out is an issue.

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MIRRORED ASYMMETRY
 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

4.1.2 On the basis of Façade

Symmetrical Facade:

Folded plates with colorful balcony in the center

Asymmetrical facade:

Asymmetrically pop out balconies with colorful side walls,

randomness of color play a major role in attracting the crowd.

Repetition of form in symmetrical façade; tapered form in asymmetrical facade

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 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

4.2 Survey

Analysis from the survey conducted shows that:

a) Symmetry is still preferred over Asymmetry

b) Symmetrical plans are more functional than Asymmetrical
c) Services is one of the most important reason to plan in Symmetrical for
apartments
d) Asymmetrical Facades does create a better visual appeal than Symmetrical
Facades
e) Aesthetics is one of the most important reason to design a façade
Asymmetrical

4.3 Analysis

Architecture is a design process which involves planning, designing and executing

buildings that are functionally efficient, economically viable and aesthetically
pleasing. Architects abandoned older forms in favor of newer and complex ones.
Simplicity is always beautiful, but what attracts the mind is complexity. Complexity
created in eyes and not in mind, which is why, planning when done in symmetry is
not complex in mind, to understand and also fulfils the most important aspect which
is functionality. The other aspect which is form or aesthetics can be achieved by
asymmetry.

Page 56; CH 4: ANALYSIS

 CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

 MIRRORED ASYMMETRY

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Conclusion

The research has been done to bring out the importance of symmetry to serve as the guiding
principle in the creation of unique building facades.

From the analysis, it can be concluded that since the planning of a project is depended on
various design factors, if fulfilled, symmetrical plans can be functional, but asymmetrical plans
have no definite surety. Also Symmetrical plans are easy to read, are soothing to eyes, and
easily balanced.

Asymmetrical facade because of the randomness in terms of placement of Fenestrations,

Material/Color on the facade, elements on facade and form, increases the visual appeal.
Technology and advanced building construction techniques are another factor of exploring new
and bold forms in buildings.

While design traditions have been focusing a lot on symmetry, there is likely a shift back
towards some of the "imbalanced" balanced design. It is visually fascinating and helps users to
get through the design smoothly.

Also, asymmetry has an impact and works very well as a concept which is used with symmetry
in the scope of complete project.

Page 58; CH 5: CONCLUSION

 BIBLIOGRAPHY

WEB:

https://designshack.net/articles/layouts/asymmetrical-design-creating-beautiful-
balanced-layouts/

https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/symmetry-vs-asymmetry-recalling-
basic-design-principles

http://www.mi.sanu.ac.rs/vismath/visbook/park/index.html

http://www.greatbuildings.com

https://www.archdaily.com

http://www.architecture-student.com/architecture/aesthetic-components-of-architecture/

https://architexturez.net/doc/az-cf-123762

https://www.e-architect.co.uk/lebanon/cube-beirut-residential-tower-
building/attachment/the-cube-beirut-tower-x020216-1

https://www.dezeen.com/2017/02/24/climbing-plants-asymmetric-balconies-buchner-
brundler-garden-tower-architecture-switzerland/

https://en.wikipedia.org
 ANNEXURE

Survey form conducted amongst architects and architecture students

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIRRORED ASYMMETRY
"Buildings with symmetrical plan but asymmetrical facade may have
an enhanced physical function as well as visual appeal."
* Required

1. Which Design principle from the following

would you prefer to work in: * Mark only one oval.
Symmetry
Asymmetry
Both
Other:

2. Do you think Symmetrical plans are more functional

than Asymmetrical plans? * Mark only one oval.
Yes
No
Can't Say

3. In Apartments, the reason to mostly

plan in symmetry is: * Check all that
apply.
Easy Setting Out
Services
Optimised Circulation
Other:
Option 1:

Option 2:

4. Which of the above plans can be better according to

the following parameters: * Mark only one oval per row.

Op 1: Asymmetrical Plan Op 2: Symmetrical Plan

Zoning
Circulation
Accessibility
Services
Space Utilisation
 5. Do you think Asymmetrical facades create a better visual
appeal, or is more attractive than Symmetrical facades: *
Mark only one oval.
Yes
No
Can't Say

6. What factors contribute the most to make

facade Asymmetrical? * Check all that apply.
Typology
Scale
Climatic Conditions
Site Orientation
Aesthetics
Material
Technology

Which among-st the below Apartment Exterior creates interest and a

better visual appeal?
Choose 1
Example 1: *
Mark only one
oval.
1
2

8. Example 2: *

Mark only one

oval.
1
2

9. Example 3: *

Mark only one

oval.
1
2