Rediscovering the Past through the Course Geometry of Classical Archetypes

Though stylistic and design principles continue to evolve over time, the geometric forms and proportions inherent in classical architecture remain eternally beautiful. In a recent continuing education course, geometer Rachel Fletcher and architect Steve Bass brought this idea to life by presenting and analyzing the mechanism, historical transformation, and application of proportional methods found in the Pantheon.

The class began with an examination of mathematical concepts, such as the square root, multiplication and ratios, with a graphic presentation that allowed the students to visualize abstract design concepts. Rachel Fletcher, ICAA instructor and author of the book Infinite Measure, offered a step-by-step explanation of how the dome, the base, and the elevation of the Pantheon harmoniously bridge together. As she combined numerical calculations and graphic patterns, she unveiled the solemnity of symmetry and rationality from the classical age.

Rachel Fletcher presenting

Studying the classical order of geometric forms remains critical to architectural study. “Now people tend to think negatively about geometries, as if they were imprisoned by them,” Ms. Fletcher said. “But this they are what I call ‘inconvincible ratios’, through which everything is interrelated. Thomas Jefferson’s Rotunda is also inspired by the formats and elements underlying the Pantheon. The geometries present something that is important to hold on to.”

Building upon this notion, instructor Steve Bass explored the proportion of the Pantheon through actual drawing practices. Taking notes from the drawing techniques applied by Albrecht Dürer, Mr. Bass used only ruler and compass to reproduce the entire floor plan of the Pantheon. Once the fundamental proportion between the square and circle was determined, the architect was able to consolidate the forms into a spatial system. In the ancient world, this is where design started. “In the years before advanced mathematics were invented, structural dimensions were defined by these kinds of relationships,” Steve added. The geometries appear to be infinite, and so does the creativity of design.

In-class exercise

Each of the course’s three sessions concluded with a drawing exercise, during which students experienced the formative power of geometrical archetypes.