Remodeling Guides
Architecture
Architect's Toolbox: Strike a Balance With Symmetry
Home exteriors, landscapes and interior rooms feel orderly and restful when designed with two mirror-image halves
Stand in front of a mirror and look at yourself. Now draw an imaginary line down the middle of your face and torso. Chances are good that your left and right sides match and that you're symmetrically composed. Not too symmetrically composed, mind you — there will be a little variation from side to side. Small differences add interest and keep things from being too static.
That, in brief, is symmetry: each side along the center line matching its opposite side, bringing balance to the whole. This is very different from asymmetry, in which each side looks to balance the opposite side with differences. We'll leave the discussion for asymmetry for another day. For now, let's look at symmetry and how that can be used in the design of our homes.
That, in brief, is symmetry: each side along the center line matching its opposite side, bringing balance to the whole. This is very different from asymmetry, in which each side looks to balance the opposite side with differences. We'll leave the discussion for asymmetry for another day. For now, let's look at symmetry and how that can be used in the design of our homes.
Symmetry gives stature and importance. From the hipped roof and chimneys to the dormers and window placement, everything about this design makes us focus on the middle, or center line. By drawing our eye to the center and then up to the Palladian window, the front of this house appears prominent, elegant and, yes, static.
Symmetry is restful and relaxed. There are no shifting planes and overlapping volumes that cause our eyes to jump around, never settling in one spot. Instead, our gaze is allowed to rest, relax and find repose.
Symmetry extends into the landscape. Don't stop at the house walls; bring symmetry to the garden and plantings as well. Use potted plants as dots. Hedges that fan out create a foreground; pencillike trees frame the entrance sequence. A crushed stone path, our center line, leads to the front door as reinforcement of the symmetrical massing and window pattern.
Symmetry knows no stylistic bias. Whether colonial or modern, symmetry is a tried and true solution to create balance, especially when you desire a processional quality. Keep the cubic volumes and floating planes; just arrange them in stasis along a center line.
Bring the symmetry inside. All of that quiet and elegant balance on the outside should find its way into the home. So continue the procession with the architecture as well as the furniture and accessories. Keep it all going and place something important and beautiful at the end.
Create a frame to reinforce symmetry. Establishing a foreground and creating a frame through which the space is viewed can reinforce the overall symmetrical layout of the room. The frame also has the benefit of creating a layering of space, another component of the architect's toolbox.
Emphasize symmetry with a motif. Using an architectural motif, such as an arch, can reinforce the symmetry and balance desired. In many ways, this is a "painterly" approach, as it treats vertical surfaces (walls) as a canvas onto which the elements are applied.
Use symmetry in all directions. Start with a foreground and the two- dimensional canvas, then extend the space beyond in a balanced fashion. Use symmetry to create depth and the illusion of vast spaciousness, as in a Pirenasi sketch.
Place furniture so that it enhances the center line. The full effect of symmetry comes through when the furniture follows the architecture. Whether it's a bed, sofa, table or other piece, placing the furniture along the center line of the room creates a strong and established focal point.
Symmetry belongs in the bathroom. From the ceiling to the windows to the vanities, tub and accessories, a bathroom that's symmetrically laid out reinforces the notion of his-and-hers areas. Placing the tub in the center underscores this symmetry and creates a spot where the two equal halves join together.
Use symmetry even in private spaces. A walk-in closet, pantry or other low-traffic area in your home can benefit from the balance created by a symmetrical layout. Not only does this approach create distinct halves that are individually used, but it also conveys a sense of careful thought and design.
Use symmetry to enlarge small spaces. Don't stop the symmetry at the exterior or in larger rooms. Because a symmetrical layout is static and fixed, it can make even the smallest of spaces feel bigger. Arranging the cabinetry and shelving in a symmetrical manner can give a small desk area presence and gravitas.
More Architect's Toolbox:
Scale and Proportion
Beautifully Layered Spaces
More Architect's Toolbox:
Scale and Proportion
Beautifully Layered Spaces
