International Journal of Engineering Research and Development e-ISSN: 2278-067X, p-ISSN: 2278-800X, www.ijerd.com Volume 11, Issue 11 (November 2015), PP.27-34 27 A Review on Seven Principles of Architecture C.Koranteng 1 , S.O. Afram 1 , E. Ayeke 1* 1 Department of Architecture, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. Abstract:- This paper examined the extensive influence of seven selected theories in Architecture namely Vastu Shastra, Feng Shui, some Vitruvian principles, Essay on Architecture (Laugier), four elements of architecture (Semper), five points towards a new Architecture (Le Corbusier) and Green Architecture. It focuses first on its historical foundations, development of these concepts and its mode of application. The study also considered the significance of these theories in recent times and identified a comparative pattern language among the concepts. The methodology involved extensive literature review on the principles. The results revealed that Green Architecture is the longest surviving, design and building concept. Again, the study demonstrated that these principles regardless of their origin emphasize sustainability and the ability to imitate and apply the laws of nature in design and building. This implies that from the conception stage of design, the designer must consider the complexities and beauties of the site resulting in enhanced harmony between man, buildings and the natural environment. Keywords:- Pattern Language, Environment, Natural, Design, Harmony, Sustainability I. INTRODUCTION When God said „let there be light’ in the book of Genesis, it symbolized the event of life on the earth (James, 2000, pg.1). And when He made man, it signified the beginning of man‟s work as steward of the natural environment. Per human needs, shelter ranks among the prominent (Maslow, 1962). Over the centuries, man has evolved in the provision of shelter; from caves to sophisticated buildings of this age. The art and science of designing and construction has agitated a lot of arguments, though through many centuries different styles of design and construction had been adopted. The question of „what is architecture‟? is a thought-provoking question which has lingered over the centuries and propelled many who lived in time to explore, appreciate and carve boundaries for themselves on the subject. Dawkins (2010) believed that the experience of architecture is a private dialogue between the body, mind and the built environment. Monteagudo (2013) adds that architecture focuses on the human being and the meticulous use of design to provide services that meet the needs of man. Conway and Roenisch (1994) summarize architecture as the art and science of buildings concerned with aesthetic qualities as well as structure. The research borders on the questions relating to its historical underpinning, its development, application as well as relevance of these selected principles. This paper first examines Vaastu Shastra (Vastu Shastra) and Feng Shui which is practiced predominately in India and China respectively (Mak and Ge, 2012: Shamsunder, 2012). According to Chen and Nakama (2004), these principles have been accepted and practiced by the western world since it was appreciated in a scientific context by Needham in 1956. Xu (2003) defines Feng Shui as an ancient discipline that influences the design and layout of buildings and cities. Vastu Shastra is a science that informs the construction and design of buildings like temples and Royal palaces (Khan, 2011).Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui principles are based on synchronizing the built environment with the natural environment (Tchi, 2014). According to Jeanneret (1984), “Architecture is the masterly correct and magnificent play of volumes brought together in light” (as quoted in Curtis, 1996:pg.163). Monteagudo (2013) states that Le Corbusier developed the „Les cinq points d' une architecture nouvelle‟ also referred to as the ‘Five Points of Architecture’. These included: the supports (Pilotis), Flat roof (roof garden), free plan (open plan system), free facade, use of long horizontal windows (Daanico, 2013). In the book „De Architectura‟, Vitruvius (c.15 BC) expressed the ancient thinking for the development of architectural quality, and set out a series of precise rules (Bech- Danielsen, 2001).Vitruvius listed the basic principles of architecture as Order, Arrangement, Eurhythmy ,Symmetry ,Propriety ,Economy (Morgan, 1914). Laugier, an 18 th century Priest, theorist and Architect interpreted the fundamental principles of architecture using the primitive hut (Longrigg et al., 2012: Ćulafić 2010). Longrigg et al. (2012) comment that the purpose of Laugier‟s essay, ‘Essai sur Architecture, (1753)’ was intended to capture the true spirit and structure of architecture. Without a set of principles, it would be difficult to distinguish between a good and a bad design (ibid). Ćulafić (2010) also states that Laugier‟s theory was based on principles respecting the concept of the primitive hut which focused on columns, entablature and pediment. Prior to the spread of industrialization, the early 19th century saw the emergence of the discipline of history (Karaiskakis, 2014). This served as a means of emancipating art and architecture from the late 18th century