What is a Form Language??
In “A Theory of Architecture” Nikos Salingaros describes how an adaptive design method relies on a complementary set of languages covering function and form (Pattern and Form languages). While Pattern Languages describe optimal solutions for interacting with our environment, Form Languages provide:
- A repertoire of forms and surface elements that can be combined to create structures- more than just a style
- Rules for how to combine and scale elements
- A common vocabulary for describing a structure
- Codification of geometrical properties like fractal structure, scaling, connectivity, and coherence/organization
The following index is an attempt to create such a Form Language for the platforms and projects on this site. It is an evolving effort!
Organization of the Form Language
Format
The following format is used to describe individual forms, loosely following Alexander’s format for patterns:
- Form Name: A short, descriptive, and recognizable name
- Example: A photo or sketch illustrating a common instance of the pattern
- Where to Use: Where this form fits into a design
- Abstraction: What is an archetype for this form?
- Related Forms: What are peers of this form? What forms are part of this form?
A simple, hierarchical numbering scheme is used as a short-hand (and to help remove any potential ambiguity from names alone):
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- xx.yy.zz
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- xx Function = 01, Form = 02
- yy Sequential numbering of categories under Function and Form
- zz Sequential numbering of patterns within a category
This scheme permits adding new patterns while avoiding renumbering . No particular meaning is inherent in the order of the listing.