As per Google’s definition, architecture is the art and technique of designing and building as distinguished from the skills associated with construction. This practice fulfills both practical and expressive requirements.
As a kid, I always used to gaze with amusement at the surrounding structures. Be it a skyscraper or a gazebo. The detailing of the structure and the space usage used to make me wonder about the design behind it. At the age of 19, I realized that the structures need not be aesthetically appealing overall instead a particular element can also bring a drastic change in the aesthetic of the structure.
The best example is Hyatt Delhi. The hotel is just among many other hotels, but the drop-off and the patio around it add richness to the place making it aesthetically beautiful for the viewers. There are many more similar structures that can be included in the example. I was always fascinated with the detailing rather the element used in the building that made it functional.
Architecture makes the IMPOSSIBLE, POSSIBLE. It makes a structure a breathable space. Every structure has a unique theme behind its shape, size, and color. A lot of pioneering architects like Zaha Hadid, Le Corbusier, Raj Rewal, B.V Doshi, etc have proved the same by delivering good designs.
Through architecture, we create an expression of human civilization at a fixed point of time with endures a moment of study for the future generation. Architecture lets people understand their spaces and the overall environment in a different and unique manner.
It is a creative expression that never dies, it remains and evolves with time. Architecture helps to divide the spaces as per human function and necessity which makes it easier to distinguish between space and its uses.
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Need of Architecture and Creativity in Today’s Society
A well-known proverb states that “the way we construct is a reflection of the way we live.” The terms “architecture” and “engineering” are frequently used interchangeably since they both refer to the use of machinery, engines, and structures. Although the idea seems simple, if you look a little closer, you can see the difficulties that architects face virtually every day as they try to meet the escalating expectations of modern society. The field of architecture is not just restricted to the natural or physical world. What is frequently forgotten is how significantly architecture influences the modern culture we live in. It satisfies several requirements related to human life, and those requirements are becoming more and more complex as time passes.
The most stunning architectural projects, like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Seattle Public Library, Java Rain, and Orchard House, are some of the best examples of how high architecture has risen in the twenty-first century. Let’s examine in greater detail how architecture contributes significantly to the development of the society in which we currently live.
It is a well-known fact that engineering and architecture are present in all aspects of daily life. From the vehicles we use to the flyovers we cross to the homes we live into the hospitals we rush to in an emergency, everything was designed by an architect.
Architecture, Art and Science?
Maybe it is both things and much more than that. It is better to think of it as a multifaceted diamond that enhances both personal and professional life. In general, architecture has always benefited humanity and continues to do so today. If you look around, you will also see how it is responsible for our current societal survival strategies. It makes significant contributions to the public sphere. People have been able to lead considerably smarter, healthier, and higher quality lives because of its outstanding technologies. Today’s world puts most essentials at our disposal. Nearly everything, including comforts, modern transportation methods, machines, and opulent utilities, is provided through architecture and thus enhancing our lifestyle.
There are numerous architectural wonders, out of which I would like to discussion of my favorite:
Parthenon – Athens, Greece
Today we will be discussing and comparing one of the most inspired and visited structures of the world i.e., Athens, Greece & Pantheon, Rome. The construction of the Parthenon was initiated around 447 B.C. and finished around 427 B.C.E. The structure is planned in rectangular shape. Doric columns and styles made the entire structure very prominent during that time.
Greece Pantheon, Rome
The Pantheon was constructed way after the Parthenon, in Rome. It was initially a private and holy space later coming under the church. Unlike Parthenon, this structure is circular in shape. The column used in this structure is a Corinthian column.
Comparison
When we look at both the structures and their function, it is learned that both of them have contrasting physical characteristics. Starting from its physical characteristics Parthenon has a rectangular shape with a doric column and style. The structure was made for the goddess Athena which was the provider for the people of Greece.
Due to years of ignorance, most of the parts of the structure were gone due to soils erosion. The structure till date signifies power and politics. On the other hand pantheon has a circular shape with a Corinthian column and style. As above stated it was the personal space of Marcus Agrippa and later on was taken over by the church. The place is now a religious and a scared spot for people.
It is clear that though they have differences than similarities, the evolution in terms of design and development has been very unique and fascinating in both places. The fact cannot be denied that to date architecture of Greece and Rome have never stopped to fascinate and inspiring the world.
Conclusion
The dynamic demands, aspirations, and ever-evolving lives of people are what drive the architectural sector to continually delve deeper. The current story of the contemporary architectural industry is somewhat similar, regardless of the number of obstacles or objectives. It’s interesting to note that the study of architecture is thought to encompass topics from sociology, psychology, economics, and even politics. The market is constantly evolving, and it is seeking modern experts who value the critical power of knowledge beyond ideas and plans.
Architecture has always been a platform symbolizing strength, power, politics and control from the ancient era till date. There is a brief evolution and derivation of every structure or building in today’s world. So in the end the question should not be WHY ARCHITECTURE, it should rather WHY NOT ARCHITECTURE?
