Orthogonal plan
The term 'orthogonal' refers to objects that, in Euclidean geometry, are related by perpendicularity. The etymology of the term is the Greek ‘ortho’ meaning ‘right’, and ‘gon’ meaning ‘angled’.
Orthogonal projection is a drawing technique used to represent three-dimensional objects as a series of two-dimensional 'flat' drawings in which there is no perspective.
Orthographic projection is a type of 'parallel' projection in which the four orthogonal views of an object are shown. The orthographic projection commonly used in the UK is called first angle projection.
Buildings are commonly depicted orthogonally by a series of elevations and plans.
The orthographic projection commonly used in the UK is called first angle projection.
The term 'orthogonal plan' may also refer to a type of urban design layout that consists of mostly square street blocks with straight streets intersecting at right angles. This forms a grid pattern, commonly referred to as a ‘grid plan’ or ‘gridiron’.
Orthogonal plans for urban design date back to antiquity, and contributed to the building of some the earliest planned cities. The layout is commonly credited to the 5th-century Greek philosopher Hippodamus, who championed this method of urban planning in his Hippodamian Plan. However, archaeologists have cast doubt on his true claim having found evidence of such plans (more accurately referred to as Milesian layouts) in ancient Egypt.
The regular orthogonal plans of the ancient Greek and Hellenic societies influenced the ancient Romans, who established design principles that are often followed to this day; particularly the work of the engineer Vitruvius.
In a modern context, grid plan urbanism has come to be closely associated with America and recently-redesigned cities such as Barcelona (outside of its historic core).
Although orthogonal plans can help with orientation and enable directness of route due to frequent intersections, the infrastructure cost associated with regular grid patterns is often higher than for patterns with discontinuous streets.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Grenfell Tower Inquiry announcement
Phase 2 hearings come to a close and the final report due in September.
Progress from Parts L, F and O: A whitepaper, one year on.
A replicated study to understand the opinion of practitioners.
A distinct type of countryside that should be celebrated.
Should Part O be extended to existing buildings?
EAC brands heatwave adaptation a missed opportunity.
Definition of Statutory in workplace and facilities management
Established by IWFM, BESA, CIBSE and BSRIA.
Tackling the transition from traditional heating systems
59% lack the necessary information and confidence to switch.
The general election and the construction industry
As PM, Rishi Sunak announces July 4 date for an election.
Home improvements swapped for green energy upgrades
As applications down since and desire to reduce bills up.
Eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce
A year after being recognised at the King's coronation.
The Use of Natural Insulation Materials in Retrofit
New paper from STBA with support from SDF.
National Retrofit Hub in partnership with InstallerSHOW.
Permitted development rights for agricultural buildings
The changes coming into effect as of May 21, 2024.
Biodiversity and the built environment digital series
The nature of building, with CIOB and CWP.
A call for prevention and sensitive re-use.
Risks to the long-term effectiveness of the BNG scheme
National Audit Office publish review of Biodiversity Net Gain.
The CIAT principal designer register
Providing assurance and verification of the capability and competence of registered ATs.
Scottish Government action to reach net-zero targets
Retrofit expert group highlight critical actions needed.