MATH 7210 : Foundations of Geometry
II
University of Georgia, Spring
2001
Dr. McCrory, Instructor
Similarity Symmetry
In similarity symmetry, the elements are dilated
by a scale factor. They retain their shape but either stretch
or shrink in size. This type of symmetry is gaining attention
because of its relation to fractals. "Similarity symmetry,
whether visually apparent or not, results in a high degree of
order within an architectural design, and lends unity to a composition."
Resource: Williams, Kim (1998). Symmetry
in Architecture. (http://turing.mi.ssau.ac.yu/vismath/kim/)
Example 1: Sydney Opera House
Location: Sydney, Australia
Architect: Jorn Utzon
Building Type: Opera house
Symmetry: All of the roof sections exhibit similarity
symmetry.
Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Sydney_Opera.html)
Example 2: Kinkaku
Location: Kyoto, Japan
Architect: Yoshimitsu
Building Type: Zen temple
Symmetry: The two roofs exhibit similarity symmetry.
Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Kinkaku.html)
Example 3: Notre Dame Cathedral
Location: Paris, France
Architect: Maurice de Sully
Building Type: Church, cathedral
Symmetry: The arches over the doors exhibit
similarity symmetry.
Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Notre_Dame_Cathedral.html)
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