Amazing Examples of Architecture Inspired by Mathematics
Architecture | By Alison Nastasi | September
20, 2012
·
·
·
The link between math and architecture goes back to ancient times, when
the two disciplines were virtually indistinguishable. Pyramids and temples were
some of the earliest examples of mathematical principles at work. Today, math
continues to feature prominently in building design. We’re not just talking
about mere measurements — though elements like that are integral to
architecture. Thanks to modern technology, architects can explore a variety of
exciting design options based on complex mathematical languages, allowing them
to build groundbreaking forms. Take a look at several structures past the break
that were modeled after mathematics. Even if your idea of math is typing
juvenile, upside-down messages in a calculator, or asking Siri to figure it out
for you, we promise you’ll find something to be wowed by here.
Mobius Strip Temple
You probably made a Mobius Strip in grade school math class, so you
should remember that the geometric form is unique in that there is no
orientation. A similar twisty shape is applied to the design of Buddhist
buildings. The temple is a mound-like shape known as a stupa — similar to a
pagoda — and contains a central spire where Buddhists congregate. One architect
wanted to modernize it for a soon-to-be built temple in China, and based the
updated design on the Mobius Strip — which also happens to symbolize
reincarnation.
·
·
Tetrahedral-Shaped Church
The tetrahedron is a convex polyhedron with four triangular faces.
Basically, it’s a complex pyramid. You’ve seen the same geometric principle
used in RPGs, because the dice is shaped the same. Famed architect Walter
Netsch applied the concept to the United States Air Force Academy’s Cadet
Chapel in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It’s a striking and classic example of
modernist architecture, with its row of 17 spires and massive tetrahedron frame
that stretches more than 150 feet into the sky. The early 1960’s church cost a
whopping $3.5 million to construct.
·
·
·
Pentagonal, Phyllotactic Greenhouse and Education Center
Cornwall, England’s Eden Project is home to the world’s largest greenhouse,
composed of geodesic domes that are made up of hexagonal and pentagonal cells.
The social, environmental, and arts/education center is all about green living
and considered that in every aspect of their design and programming. Their
interactive education center dubbed “The Core” incorporated Fibonacci numbers
(a math sequence that also relates to the branching, flowering, or arrangement
of things in nature) and phyllotaxis (the arrangement of leaves) in its design.
No comments:
Post a Comment