Visual Balance and Symmetry

Buildings should be visually balanced; meaning, they should have roughly the same visual weight on either side of their central axis. This can be achieved simply through symmetry (such as Schloss Charlottenburg in Berlin pictured above), or asymmetrically through differing sub-masses on either side of the central axis. It is important to note that in traditional architecture, individual sub-masses are almost always symmetrical.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is pictured below. As can be seen, the building as a whole is not symmetrical; however, the turrets and main hall work together to place the visual center of mass roughly on the central axis.

The sub-masses are also important to note. Though the building as a whole is not symmetrical, the individual sub-masses are.

Neuschwanstein Castle Germany — Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany (click to enlarge).

Consider the two rudimentary church elevations below. Which one looks better? Why?

Traditional Architecture Side Elevations — Church Side Elevations

The church on the right looks better as its apse helps counterbalance the steeple, bringing the visual center of mass closer to the center axis of the building.

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