Theory: Mass vs. Void

Uxmal is laid out in a way that contrasts, yet balances mass versus void. The large constructs within the ruin dominate the site, but coexist with the vast open spaces. Both are utilized to hold countless people, but they do so in completely different ways. The buildings have specific destinations for the occupant, while the open fields contain the groups for gatherings. The voids are oriented around the buildings, creating a contrast and directing the flow of the site.

Theory: Contrast Between Mass and Detail

The scale of Uxmal ranges from large masses that construct buildings to minute details that convey the cultural influences of the time period. The contrast between the mass and detail is very apparent at Uxmal. The juxtaposition of the huge spaces between buildings and the large buildings themselves imply importance and authority.

In contrast, the finely detailed facades on many of the buildings depict interwoven serpents, lattice work, and masks of the rain god, Chaac. These are representative not only of Uxmal itself because they are found everywhere, but also of Puuc architecture in general, thus representing the past and serving as a sort of time line of cultural patterns.

diagram of Magician's Pyramid