Standardization and Systems of Proportions

In discussing standardization previously, examples of systems that have been proposed can show different approaches that all aim to simplify and reduce costs in manufacturing and construction, among other things. Some other ‘requirements’ of modular coordination include non conflict with present industrial processes, and aesthetic neutrality to allow freedom of design. It should also take into account the properties and limitations of the materials themselves, which means the system should flexible.


In 1936, Albert Farwell Bemis suggested a standard base dimension of 4” for all building elements, suggesting that dimensions of all house parts can be manufactured in multiples of the base dimension. Limiting the number of sizes allows for clarification. Obviously there are some limitations to this scheme due to impractical sizes that would result such as column sizes for a large scale project since there were no provisions for sub-dividing the dimension.


Le Corbusier’s ‘Modulor’ uses a proportional approach similar the Fibonacci series that is additive and uses a constant ratio (Golden Ratio) instead of a fixed dimension. In this way pieces can interlock regardless of size, and would always remain in proportion with each other. The additive values are very limited due to the logic of the series, meaning that choices for building products manufactured in these dimensions will be extremely limited.


R.M. Schindler’s ‘reference frame in space’ is another system of proportions based on a cubical dimension of 48”. The aim was to simplify the development of plans and facilitate construction easily. The 48” dimension can be subdivided and fractioned accordingly, giving the designer a wider range of dimensions since the number 48 is the seventh highly composite number. Multiple combinations of its divisions can easily adapt to different proportional systems, including musical proportions.

Ezra Ehrenkrantz proposed the three dimensional number pattern in 1956, taking three related number systems, the Fibonacci series, Tripling, and Doubling, in a three dimensional grid. By providing a wide array of combinations of related dimensions, the availability of choice becomes useful for manufacturers and designers. Choices for nominal dimensions of product sizes can be achieved with this system while maintaining modular coordination between different manufacturers of building elements.

Readings and Images:
Bemis, Albert Farwell. The Evolving House, Vol. III
Ehrenkratz, Ezra. The Modular Number Pattern
Le Corbusier. The Modulor
Leon, Ana Maria. Website. http://undertow.arch.gatech.edu/homepages/gt7267a/Background.html
Wachsmann, Konrad. The Turning Point of Building