Architecture means: A general term to describe buildings and other physical structures. The art and science of designing buildings and (some) nonbuilding structures. The style of design and method of construction of buildings and other physical structures. A unifying or coherent form or structure. This is the basic definition that you will read in a dictionary which lays a concrete base for architecture’s understanding but as time evolved the term architecture has undergone evolution as well. Now, it is a complex and broad subject that encompasses several interrelated disciplines such as art, design, science, mathematics, business, geography, computer programming and many more.
History of Architecture
Architecture goes back to time immemorial. Since, the first civilization; man looked out to make a shelter for himself to live in and that’s where architecture came in. In the beginning, architecture was dependent upon the durability and sustainability of the design but with the passage of time more and more angles were added and aesthetics became an important part of the design.
As mentioned above, architecture has evolved with the passage of time but it has also transited and was affected by different trends, styling, traditions, regions etc. It has undergone major developmental phases and therefore, now we can see many branches of architecture influenced by different eras.
We have different architectures, from which inspirations are taken even today and then its further improvised with the modern technologies to blend it according to the time we are living in.
To name a few old civilizations which had a deep impact on architecture and formed the basics of this vast field are:
- Greek
- Roman
- Egyptian
- Byzantine
- Islamic
- Chinese
- Gothic
- European
- Renaissance
- Baroque
Postmodern architecture:
Postmodern architecture is considered to be the immersion of modernism into design and this is the prevalent type even today. It started in late 1970s and continues to transform even today; according to the era and advancements in modern day world.
Architecture today
The complexity of buildings has significantly increased, since the 1980s.
Issues such as environmental sustainability and green architecture have also become a huge part of architectural design, with concerns such as global warming and environmental pollutions are at an all-time high.
Current design movements such as New Urbanism and New Classical architecture have been readily embraced, yet there is still incorporation of ancient design elements in this new wave of buildings.
Importance of Architecture
Architecture whether good or bad, creates environment and atmosphere which further reflects itself on the human nature, emotions and moods. Therefore, architecture is needed for both physical and emotional sense and in simpler words it is the main survival tool!
The concept of sustainable architecture is important in ensuring that buildings are designed in a manner that doesn’t negatively affect the environment.
The artful design of buildings often results in aesthetically pleasing buildings.
In its own way, architecture serves as a source of revenue. This is especially true when you consider architectural masterpieces such as the pyramids of Giza, which serve to attract huge droves of tourists.
Architectural designs are a huge part of history. Over time, architecture has been used to define significant parts of history.
Conclusion
Architecture which is termed as a survival tool, cannot be ignored in any way. It is important for the basic aesthetics to be conjoined in such a way that the outcome is not hazardous rather appealing and working. It exists so that the quality of life is improved in every era.
It is needed for structural stability as well as deflection on the emotions. Concluding on a note that
ARCHITECTURE IS NEEDED TO CREATE A PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH HUMANS CAN LIVE.
See Also: The Byzantine Architecture of the Hagia Sophia
