Rhythm

The rhythm is repetition of elements in a sequence having a relationship between them. We can found rhythm based on the repetition of shapes, dimensions or repetition of differences which is the more complex type of rhythm. In all these types can vary the size, shapes or the spaces between them without destroy the relationship. Rhythms can be indefinite and open or definite and closed. Open rhythm is the repetition of similar units in equal size and form, whit the same space between them and without a defined  beginning or a defined end. It is very disturbing in architecture, but if it is define and if it marks its beginning and its end very well the disturbing sensation can disappear. Rhythms may be closed by changing the shapes or size of the units at the ends or by adding to the end an opposing rhythm. Another type of rhythm is the rhythm of lines. It can have variations of linear lengths or curvatures. We can change the radius and create the ellipse or we can have a sequence of circles which are becoming smaller and create the spiral. There are rhythms of interior spaces or exterior rhythms, in the latter, the problem is in the rhythms of the masses themselves. Preferences in rhythm type have varied greatly in different architectural periods. Rhythmical relationships arise simply and naturally from constructive and functional necessities: controlled and orchestrated by the creative imagination, they become one of the chief elements in architectural beauty. 

== =Rhythm in different architectural styles =

As I say before, preferences in rhythm type have varied greatly in different architectural periods. In the image below we can see that the Gothic style is extraordinarily varied in its rhythmical content. We can see clearly defined and persistent rhythms in their ornaments. We can observe the two towers at each end, although they are not the identical, they have the same elements. Each one has three vertical elements and the exaggerated staccatos on the edge of spires.

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