Movement and organic shapes

The balance between rigid building forms and the shapes of nature.

Down
Roche Indianapolis, U.S.A.
“The form is mechanic when on any given material we impress a predetermined form not necessarily arising out of the properties of the material... The organic form, on the other hand, is innate, it shapes as it develops itself from within…” Samuel Taylor Coleridge - Poet
Roche Kaiseraugst, Switzerland

The form of movement

Shapes should relate to body movement and proportions since the sensation of mobility is an important element to experiencing the landscape. Transform the traditional promenade into a dynamic compositional element, a vaguely organic entity that both separates and connects diverse environments.

Don’t

 
  • Avoid designing a path that runs against the grade, as it results in unnecessary land disturbance, or one that has a complex geometric pattern.

  • Don't use unnecessary elements or artificial complex geometries.

  • Don’t design fragmented outdoor spaces.

  • Avoid non-rectilinear shapes at the edges of green areas.

Key to Movement and organic shapes

  • Balance the rigid shapes of buildings with organic landscapes in between.
  • Design shapes that relate to body movement, proportions and are adapted to the topography.
  • Don’t use unnecessary elements, design complex compositions or too fragmented outdoor spaces.
See all Exteriors key features