3.2 Form and Shape

3.2 Form and Shape

By reference to its limits, the physical form of a square can be defined. These are the distinguishing elements of open space, as well as the negative form of space within such boundaries. The boundaries, such as the ground pavement or the façade of a building, can be noticeable and tangible; the boundaries of a square may be the pierced screen as a wall created by a row of trees through which masses and space are viewed beyond the volumetric boundaries of the square; the boundaries of a square may be indicated by a curb of roads or a trimmed hedge, a riverbank or a row of columns. Only roof lines or the sky indicate the upper limit of this open space, the cognition phase of the mind is required here to mentally define, unify and understand the spatial confines of the earthbound region beneath.

There have been a number of attempts to classify the form that squares may take. For example, they can be classified according to-

o Regularity

Regular shape squares- These take the form of a regular shape, like a circle, square, rectangle, etc.

Such squares show a clear urban image for the observer. They could be formed by roads leading to an open space and structures enclosing that space. For example, Vendome Square, Paris.

Figure 25: Regular shape squares (Author)

Figure 27: Regular shape of Vendome Square (Author) Figure 26: Vendome Square, Paris (https://izi.travel/)

Free/ Irregular shape squares- These take the form of an irregular polygon.

Figure 28: Free/Irregular shape square (Author)

Figure 30: Irregular shape of De Urbanisten (Author) Figure 29: De Urbanisten, Water Squar, Netherlands (https://www.architectural-review.com)

o Axis of Symmetry

Squares with one symmetric axis

St. Peters Square in Rome, has only one longitudinal symmetrical axis emphasizing the main basilica building.

India Gate Square, has only one longitudinal symmetrical axis emphasizing the main gate on one end and the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the other end.

Figure 31: One axis of symmetry square (Author) Figure 32: St. Peteres Basilica, Rome (Google)

Figure 34: One axis of symmetry square (Author) Figure 33: India Gate Complex City Square, New Delhi (https://land8.com)

Squares with two symmetric axis

Place des vosges, Paris and Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri have two symmetrical axis.

Figure 35: Two axis of symmetry square (Author) Figure 36: Place des vosges, Paris (https://www.britannica.com)