What are the classical architectural orders?

An architectural order is an assemblage of parts subject to uniform proportions and regulated by their function, most easily recognized by the type of column used. Originating in Ancient Greece and Rome, the primary traditional styles are the Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite. These orders functioned as a structural system in early Greek architecture, but increasingly became decorative elements as Roman architecture popularized the arch.

What we know

• The classical architectural orders are styles of classical architecture most readily recognizable by the type of column employed. [1, 2]
• The three original orders of architecture—the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian—originated in Greece. [2]
• The Romans added the simpler Tuscan order and the more ornamental Composite order to the classical canon. [2]
• While orders were essentially structural in Ancient Greek architecture, they became increasingly decorative elements in Roman architecture due to the dominance of the arch. [2]

Where to go next

• what caused itHow did the Roman use of the arch change building design?
• a case in pointWhat is The Five Orders of Architecture by Vignola?
• what followedWhat are the characteristics of Greek Revival architecture?
• the bigger pictureWhat is classical architecture?
• how we knowHow did John Summerson explain the classical language of architecture?
• an unexpected connectionHow is an architectural order like a musical mode?An architectural order is likened to a musical mode or key because it is established by modular intervals and sets specific expectations in an audience attuned to its linguistic rules.

Sources

• [1]architectural order (Wikidata Q217175) · CC0 1.0
• [2]Classical order · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [3]The Five Orders of Architecture · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [4]Outline of classical architecture · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [5]The Classical Language of Architecture · CC BY-SA 4.0