MATH 7210 : Foundations of Geometry
II
University of Georgia, Spring
2001
Dr. McCrory, Instructor
Spiral or Helical Symmetry
In spiral or helical symmetry, the architectural
piece exhibits a spiral or helix. In other words, there is a central
vertical axis that the architectural piece "winds" around
and either toward or away from. This special type of similarity
symmetry expresses a theme of continuity.
Resource: Williams, Kim (1998). Symmetry
in Architecture. (http://turing.mi.ssau.ac.yu/vismath/kim/)
Example 1: Guggenheim Museum
Location: New York, New York
Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
Building Type: Art museum
Symmetry: The spiral is actually a ramp that
winds around a central axis and has art pieces along one wall.
Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Guggenheim_Museum.html)
Example 2: Ross House
Location: ???
Architect: James Ream
Building Type: House
Symmetry: The rooms of the house spiral out
from a central chimney.
Resource: Blackwell, William (1984). Geometry
in Architecture. pgs. 114-115.
Example 3: Villa Savoye
Location: Poissy, France
Architect: Le Corbusier
Building Type: House
Symmetry: Where is spiral or helical symmetry
present in Villa Savoye?
Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Villa_Savoye.html)
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