Domino Proportions System: Structural, Functional, and Aesthetic Analysis in Modern Architecture

Le Corbusier's Domino system, introduced in the early 20th century, marked a turning point in modern architecture by proposing a modular framework based on slender columns and reinforced concrete slabs. This structural innovation facilitated standardization, industrialization, and rapid construction, influencing landmark projects such as Villa Savoye and the Pessac housing complex, as well as later mass housing developments. Despite these advantages, limited research has critically examined the relevance of the Domino system in light of contemporary architectural and environmental standards. This study aims to evaluate the strengths and limitations of the Domino system within its historical context while exploring its potential adaptability to present-day needs. The research employs a descriptive approach to explain the system's conceptual features, an analytical approach to assess selected case studies, and a comparative approach to measure its performance against current architectural criteria. Data sources include scholarly literature, visual and graphical documentation, and environmental records, enabling both historical and technical analysis. Findings reveal that the Domino system significantly contributed to the rationalization of building processes and provided a foundation for prefabrication and modular construction. However, its emphasis on structural regularity often resulted in spatial monotony and insufficient responsiveness to cultural, climatic, and ecological factors. The study highlights the importance of integrating adaptive strategies, sustainable materials, and advanced technologies. Contemporary tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), parametric design, and modular prefabrication can reinterpret the Domino framework, ensuring flexibility, contextual sensitivity, and ecological performance. By bridging historical innovation with modern requirements, the Domino system demonstrates enduring relevance when reimagined through contemporary architectural practices.

Institutions

Publication Details

Journal
International journal of architecture and urban development
Published
2025-02-27
DOI
https://doi.org/10.71711/ijaud.2025.1200631
Primary Topic
Architecture and Computational Design
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
Controls
|||
ALL TIME
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
article

Domino Proportions System: Structural, Functional, and Aesthetic Analysis in Modern Architecture

International journal of architecture and urban development
Architecture and Computational Design
article

Domino Proportions System: Structural, Functional, and Aesthetic Analysis in Modern Architecture

article en

Abstract

Le Corbusier's Domino system, introduced in the early 20th century, marked a turning point in modern architecture by proposing a modular framework based on slender columns and reinforced concrete slabs. This structural innovation facilitated standardization, industrialization, and rapid construction, influencing landmark projects such as Villa Savoye and the Pessac housing complex, as well as later mass housing developments. Despite these advantages, limited research has critically examined the relevance of the Domino system in light of contemporary architectural and environmental standards. This study aims to evaluate the strengths and limitations of the Domino system within its historical context while exploring its potential adaptability to present-day needs. The research employs a descriptive approach to explain the system's conceptual features, an analytical approach to assess selected case studies, and a comparative approach to measure its performance against current architectural criteria. Data sources include scholarly literature, visual and graphical documentation, and environmental records, enabling both historical and technical analysis. Findings reveal that the Domino system significantly contributed to the rationalization of building processes and provided a foundation for prefabrication and modular construction. However, its emphasis on structural regularity often resulted in spatial monotony and insufficient responsiveness to cultural, climatic, and ecological factors. The study highlights the importance of integrating adaptive strategies, sustainable materials, and advanced technologies. Contemporary tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), parametric design, and modular prefabrication can reinterpret the Domino framework, ensuring flexibility, contextual sensitivity, and ecological performance. By bridging historical innovation with modern requirements, the Domino system demonstrates enduring relevance when reimagined through contemporary architectural practices.

International journal of architecture and urban development
Islamic Azad University, Tehran (IR), Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch (IR)
Openalex Percentile: Top 24%
Architecture and Computational Design
AI Navigator

Ask Laika to Summarize, Analyze, and Connect papers live on the map.

Summarize Papers & Methodologies

Extract key findings, datasets, and comparative methods across publications.

Benchmark Rankings & Visual Analytics

Rank top research institutions, authors, funders, topics, and journals by Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and paper volume with instant charts.

Connect Distant Disciplines

Bridge topological clusters on the map to find hidden collaborative intersections.

Domino Proportions System: Structural, Functional, and Aesthetic Analysis in Modern Architecture · International journal of architecture and urban development (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS