Medieval architects used proportion as a means of creating harmonious designs in several ways, including:
1. Golden Ratio: Many medieval architects used the golden ratio to establish a proportionate relationship between the different elements of a building. This ratio was employed to determine the size of columns, the width of arches and the height of walls.
2. Symmetry: Symmetry was used to create a sense of balance and harmony in medieval architecture. The builders designed buildings in such a way that the left side was identical to the right side. This symmetry gave the impression of a stable and balanced structure.
3. Proportional Composition: The proportions of individual elements within a building were carefully considered to create a balanced and harmonious whole. The architects were concerned with the relationships between the height, width, and depth of different elements within a building.
4. Use of Modules: Medieval architects often used a modular system in designing buildings. This approach involved dividing the building into equal parts or modules, and ensuring that each element within the building fit into a specific module. This method resulted in a predictable and harmonious design.
Overall, the use of proportion in medieval architecture facilitated the creation of balanced, harmonious structures that were visually pleasing and structurally sound.
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