I enjoy the crisp evening air while standing on the south patio of the Greystone Mansion which overlooks a sweeping vista from the LA skyline to Santa Monica Bay. The sun has now set and twinkling lights in the distance silhouette the night sky. It has been another long yet inspiring day studying fundamentals of Classical Architecture. This aptly named “Intensive” program is facilitated by the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art (ICAA). Over the duration of the week we studied proportioning systems and fundamentals related to the Classical Orders. With a compass, straight edge, and lead-holder in hand, we subdivided lines, constructed polygons, and geometrically established the “mean and extreme’ ratio, more commonly known as the “golden ratio.” We constructed each of…