Understanding the Evolution of Architecture
Author: John Published Under: History
When a person looks at a building, it is hard to not look at it for what it offers in regards to utility and protection from the elements.
To this end, most that consider architecture will first consider the purpose of a building and how well it serves this purpose, before they consider the beauty of its architecture. In truth, much of the beauty of building has been lost over time, with few builders taking the time to appreciate each and every brick, as was often the case in ancient times.
There are, of course, many claims to what is the oldest example of architecture and building design, but currently Iraq houses the oldest cities known to mankind. It was in these early cities where the first temples and religions were developed, as people went from worshiping out in the open to worshiping in buildings. As a result, the ancient cities of Iraq had a need for many public areas, as well as private residences.
These ancient architects, and even those who practice the art today, must make an effort to balance functionality with beauty. Accessibility with humanity.
One of the biggest changes in regards to modern architecture occurred after World War I. It was at this time that many of those in Europe wanted to distance themselves as much as possible from the war, adopting a much simpler and cleaner form of architecture. This philosophy is often referred to as the modernist movement, with many architects adopting a much more sanitary white type of design.
Technology also plays a very important role in the evolution of architecture.. Improved building techniques allow architects to create buildings that are stronger and bigger. One of the most significant examples of the relationship between technology and architecture came with the passenger elevator, which quickly replaced the dumbwaiter found in most buildings.
With the invention of a safe and reliable elevator in the nineteenth century, architects were no longer required to build with the physical abilities of the people using the stairs in mind, so the sky literally became the limit. Almost overnight, builders began making much taller buildings.
Today, architecture is even more dependent on technology, as architects rely on computer aided design to safely and easily implement their ideas.
It is often easy to forget that architecture is not just created by architects, but the people who hire them also play a big role in design and implementation. This has been true since the time of kings and remains just as relevant today. It is also not just size or intricacy that makes an architectural masterpiece, but sometimes very simple creations can be some of the most beautiful.
One of the great things about architecture is that it is in many cases timeless. For instance, the vast wondrous pyramids of Egypt remain one of the most amazing examples of architecture, yet they are thousands of years old. The ability to look back and appreciate this older architecture allows the modern architects to implement similar designs in their work.