San Lorenzo's nave is a masterpiece of Brunelleschi's classic style, using strict geometric measurements and proportions.
The large square areas of the floor, which are defined by darker inlaid lines leading the eye to the altar,
are the basic mathematical units used in the height of the ceiling, arches, side aisles and
the three-dimensional cubical side chapels.

All of the structural elements of the nave interior are defined by "pietra serena", (quiet stone).
Brunelleschi used the darker gray stone for the Corinthian columns supporting the arches, as well
as outlining the arches themselves, creating a visual element that emphasizes the strict proportions.

These typical Brunelleschian elements can be found in several churches he designed in Florence, such as Sta. Spirito and the Pazzi Chapel.
In all these structures, Brunelleschi used his strict mathematical proportions and stylistic pietra serena "drawing on the walls"
to separate his new Renaissance architecture from the earlier Gothic flamboyant churches that were the
working model for the previous centuries.