What is architecture?

Wondering about architecture?

By definition, architecture is the practice of designing construction plans that will aid in the further development of buildings. But the scope of architecture goes way beyond this. For people who are in the field practicing, the definition is not any simpler. The question is an artistic puzzle that will incite intellectual interference to find an answer.

Artists are people who take real-world examples and represent them with abstract essence. Architects on the other hand come up with abstract ideas that are then brought to life.

The profession involving the designing of the plan for buildings, constructions, and environments with an added aesthetic touch is what architecture is predominantly about. The scope of architecture generally deals with designing layouts, sketching blueprints, adding essence to construction, supervising the building development, and restoration of old structures or remodeling.

For artisans, the question ‘what is architecture?’ is an intellectual debate. Architecture to them is rather a calling or even a passion that cannot be labeled by a singular definition.

Elements that architects should deal with

Designers in the field of architecture deal with the creative manipulation of many elements to arrive at structures and solutions that are functional and beautiful. Mass, volume, light, space, material, etc along with other considerations of cost, technology, and constructive to arrive at solutions that are functional, artistic, and carry an aesthetic appeal is what they have to focus on.

And architecture is a field where a one-size-fits-all approach definitely bites to the dust. There should be consideration of surrounding structures, community, history and heritage of the given locality, climatic conditions, budget, development timelines, and materials.

The end purpose of architecture comes down to designing buildings to life that are sustainably constructed, offer the flexibility for reconstruction in the future, be energy-efficient, accommodate all the functional requirements, and also age well with time. Form and function should be two major elements of focus.

Contemporary day-to-day conditions of livelihood should all be a core consideration for the development of any structure. Serving the collective interests of developers, politicians, corporation, and end users are hindering the artistic freedom of expression that architects originally want to express. But it is also an obligation of the field.

Architects generally employ scientific methodologies, abstract thinking, and artistic sensibility to create great solutions.

Principles of architecture designs

1. Balance

Creating an equal weightage to all design elements while also retaining the functionality of every last corner is what balance is all about.  This balance can be met in both symmetrical and asymmetrical contexts. Symmetrical balance involves the equal composition of all the elements surrounding the center of balance. In an asymmetrical composition, the elements will not be evenly positioned by the center balance but they all meet integrally at a specific point away.  Visual equality is basically what balance is all about.

The symmetrical balance again can be classified into the following:

  • Balance along the vertical axis
  • Balance along the horizontal axis
  • Bi-axial balance
  • Diagonal axis balance
  • Approximate symmetry
  • Inverted symmetry
  • Radial symmetry

Asymmetrical balance can be classified into:

  • Balance by texture
  • Balance by color
  • Balance by value

2. Rhythm

Repetition, Transition, graduation, and Opposition are some of the components pertaining to the rhythm. A mix of visual components together creating a recognizable pattern is what rhythm refers to.

what is architectureRhythm in the design brought about by repeating shapes, lines, or colors is called repetition. The rhythm created by a gradual change in color is called gradation. A central axis with elements protruding from it is called radiation. An abrupt visual change that still makes contact at the right intersection to create a rhythm is called opposition.

3. Emphasis

Assorting a visual hierarchy to finish designs to highlight what needs added attention is referred to as emphasis in architectural terms. Visually conveying a message with key highlights in finished construction by making distinctive elements stand out is what this principle deals with.

Making one area stand out for an added visual appeal is something that makes architects retain their individuality through a creative style of expression. At YCSPL, we have experts who are extremely perfect with the attention to detail they bring about in any design.

4. Visual movement

The progression of any design visually to appease the end-user’s perception is called visual movement. Playing around with spatial connections to result in a unique flow of design elements is what makes a good architecture with visual movements. Direction movement aligning the visual course of the perceiver makes any exterior look futuristic with a unique aesthetic appeal.

5. Contrast

Contrast aids in emphasis and brings objects or elements forward in a design. Contrast can be made of colors, shapes, compositions, or even sizes. The key challenge for any architecture company here is to engage in contrasts without disrupting the unity of the design.

6. Harmony

The unity or order of a design that creates a visually pleasing structure is what harmony refers to. This makes the entire development agreeable as a whole.  Creating a visually satisfying effect will make any structure looks extra aesthetic.

Only when a design carries a functional unity, they’ll also express a sense of evenness in its style.

7. Alignment

A certain order of arrangement to bring together different elements to feature as one is what the principle of alignment is all about. Any kind of organization will add up to the look and feel of any area and create a pleasing outlook.

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