6 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (Proportion) | 6 AIA CES Learning Units|HSW

The purpose of this class is to impart the critical methodology and vocabulary necessary to understand and manipulate proportional systems in architectural design. It examines the numerous and often contradictory systems of proportion put forth through the ages from antiquity to contemporary times. Particular attention is given to the geometrical proportioning systems used in antiquity and found in the tradition of Gothic architecture, in contrast to the arithmetic systems of proportion used during the Renaissance. The intention is to give contemporary architects and designers a practical “working knowledge” of a subject that has been of central concern to architects working in many varied epochs

Richard Franklin Sammons has a rich background in traditional period design and is an internationally recognized expert in the field of Architectural proportion, having taught at the Prince of Wales’ Institute of Architecture in London, Pratt Institute in New York, and the University of Notre Dame in Rome. Mr. Sammons received his B.A. at Denison University and Master of Architecture at the University of Virginia. He is a founding partner of Fairfax and Sammons Architects, established over twenty-five years ago, is an award-winning architectural design firm with offices in both New York City and Palm Beach, Florida.

REFERENCED TEXT (Not required to read before course)
Note: copies of essential plates from books below and additional sources will be provided.

Ware, William. R. (1994 reprint). The American Vignola: A Guide to the Making of Classical Architecture. New York: Dover Publications, Inc.

Walker, C. Howard Theory of Mouldings (Classical America Series in Art and Architecture) W. W. Norton & Company (2007)
Forward written by Richard Sammons

What You Will Learn

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Analyze classical, gothic, romanesque and byzantine compositions with the appropriate methodologies
• Manipulate geometric scales
• Develop a working knowledge of geometric proportional systems
• Understand the canons of composition
• Develop an ‘eye’ for good conformation

Materials Needed

1. A Compass
2. Straight Edge
3. Graph Paper
4. Plain Paper

Patron’s Circle Sponsor

Woolems Luxury Builders
Fernando Wong Outdoor Living Design
Gil Walsh Interiors

Henry Flagler Donors

Belt
Marmotech