History Of Architectural Design

Posted by Jon M. Head on December 22nd, 2020

The history of architectural design is multifaceted and uncertain. You can hardly answer the question of the origin of this term. However, we can say with confidence that the origins of styles in architecture are associated with a person’s striving for beauty.

The history of architectural design is multifaceted and uncertain. You can hardly answer the question of the origin of this term. However, we can say with confidence that the origins of styles in architecture are associated with the human desire for beauty. The formation of architectural styles was greatly influenced by the state structure and style of thinking, religious beliefs, the environment and national characteristics.

But the greatest influence on architecture as an artistic phenomenon was made by technical progress. The latest technology has become the impetus for the emergence of various stylistic trends. However, no style is a complete departure from the previous one; it retains its elements, supplementing them with new artistic forms. Only in modern times can you find a number of styles.

Architectural design. History. Let’s consider in more detail the main directions of architectural design, their characteristic features and specifics.

Empire style (XIX century) — a style based on the principles of classicism and ancient art. It is characterized by the monumentality of the forms of massive porticoes, military emblems in decor and architectural details (eagles,
laurel wreaths, lictor bundles, military armor, etc.). The style also incorporated some ancient Egyptian plastic and architectural motifs (Egyptian ornament, large undivided wall planes, stylized sphinxes, etc.). The brightest examples of this style are: the triumphal arch (Paris) and the arch of the general staff .

Art Deco (first half of the 20th century) is a synthesis of neoclassicism and modernity. Characteristic features: geometric patterns of ethnic themes, strict regularity, luxury, expensive materials (aluminum, ivory, crocodile skin,
silver, rare wood species). The use of wide curves and stepped shapes, chevron patterns and sunburst motifs are also typical of Art Decor.

This style is characterized by fusion, spatial scope, fluidity of complex (curvilinear) forms. You can often find large-scale colonnades, an abundance of sculptures in interiors and on facades, volutes, a lot of rip-offs, rusticated
pilasters and columns. The domes are complex, multi-tiered (St. Peter’s Cathedral, Rome). Typical details — caryatid, telamon, mascaron. Russian baroque is distinguished by its scale, two- or three-color design of buildings, richness of decorative decoration (Catherine Palace).

Classicism (XVII-XIX centuries, Europe). A distinctive feature is the appeal to the elements of ancient architecture as a standard of simplicity, severity, monumental. In general, the architecture is characterized by the clarity of
volumetric forms and regularity of planning, symmetric-axial compositions and restrained decoration.

The history of architectural decor. Modern (1890–1910s, Europe). The style is distinguished by the rejection of right angles and lines, complex geometric shapes, the use of the latest technologies (glass, metal), artistic processing of
structural elements (stairs, doors, balconies, pillars). Patterned design of building facades, the use of stained-glass windows and decorative elements made of wrought iron are also inherent.

Rococo (XVIII century, France). Distinctive features of the style are large decorative workload of compositions and interiors, sophistication, graceful rhythm of ornaments, great interest in erotic motives, personal comfort, mythology.

Romanesque style (X-XII centuries, Western Europe). The main art form is church architecture (monastic complexes, stone churches). The buildings are characterized by a combination of laconic exterior decoration and architectural silhouette (Cathedral ensemble in Pisa, Italy). The walls are smooth and massive. The windows are narrow. The main distinctive element of the buildings is considered to be a semicircular arch.

Romanticism (XVIII-XIX centuries, Europe). The style is characterized by a variety of forms and creative freedom. It features vivid characters and passions, healing and spiritualized nature. During construction, aesthetic sophistication, richness of forms and complex silhouettes in decorations come to the fore.

Eclecticism (1830–1890s). The styles and shapes of a building are directly related to its function. Eclecticism is multi-style, that is, buildings of the same period are based on different styles, depending on the material resources
of the customer and the purpose of the building.

Hi-tech (1970–1980s). Distinctive features of the style: the use of innovative technologies in the design, construction and engineering of structures and buildings; extensive use of metal, plastic and glass; the use of simple shapes and straight lines; tubular steel work; use of a silvery metallic color; the use of elements of cubism and constructionist.

Brutal ism (translated as “raw concrete”). Brutality architects tried in every possible way to emphasize the rough texture of concrete. Therefore, the buildings have never been covered with paint, plaster or any other finishing
material. The preference is given to heavy, monotonous, rectilinear forms.