What is architecture and why is it important?

Intro

Construction is one of the most ancient forms of human activity, which means that many thousands of years ago the foundations for all further development of architecture were laid. When you come to any city, you see palaces, town halls, and private cottages built in a variety of architectural styles. And it is by these styles that we determine the era of their construction, the socio-economic level of the country, customs, traditions and the customs of a particular nation, its culture, history, national and spiritual heredity, and even the temperaments and characters of the people of that country. Architecture is an art inseparable from everyday human life. It serves our domestic needs and various social needs. And at the same time, it gives us joy, creates mood, and influences people’s feelings.

“What is architecture?” is a fundamental question that architects ask themselves, so simple and complex at the same time. Each of them describes architecture in his way, and the answer fully characterizes his work. Frank Gehry once said: Architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness. And here we are: his works are full of expressiveness, created in such a way that they impress both now and will continue to impress in the future. This is just one of the expressions of famous architects about architecture, which we will mention in this article. Today we will try to reveal architecture’s meaning and importance as widely as possible, looking at it from different angles. You will learn about the technical and spiritual point of architecture, and its purpose, and find out what answers to the question “What’s architecture?” were given by experienced professionals of our company.

Architecture definition

Architecture is one of the most comprehensive fields of human activity, dealing with the organization of space and solving any spatial aesthetic and social problems. Architecture is the art and science of designing and constructing various buildings, structures, and complexes necessary for human life and diverse activities. Architecture meaning also the appearance of buildings and structures, as well as the buildings and structures themselves. The description of the architecture is very broad indeed. But the main is… there is no architecture without construction.

Architectural works are often seen as cultural or political symbols, as works of art. The architecture allows the vital functions of society to be carried out, while at the same time directing the processes of life. However, architecture is created first and foremost according to the capabilities and needs of people.

Interrelationships in architecture are functional (purpose, utility), technical (strength, durability), and aesthetic (beauty). One of the most important tasks in constructing a beautiful building or facility is ensuring the overall unity and harmony of the architectural composition. To do this, it is necessary to observe the optimal proportions and scale, the principles of symmetry and asymmetry, as well as skillfully use the advantages of contrast and other nuances. 

According to Grand View Research, the global architectural services market size was estimated at USD 344.9 billion in 2021. It is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2022 to 2028 to reach USD 648.12 billion by 2030.

Architectural design is an essential component of the development of an architectural project. What is architecture design and why it is so important? Keep reading to find the answer.

Styles in architecture

Think about what architecture is. Many buildings in different architectural styles come to mind, don’t they? Architecture has always been closely linked with the history of society’s development, its views and ideas, the level of development of construction techniques, and man’s conception of utility and beauty. All this influenced the architectural style, i.e. the historically formed set of artistic means and techniques. The architecture style manifests itself in the way of organizing space, the choice of architectural forms, and their proportions, and decorations characteristic of the era. The many architectural details in the house are what make it so special. 

Familiarity with different architectural styles can tell a lot about the past of man. Unlike the Greeks, who knew only the column overlaid with a beam and rooms with flat ceilings, the Romans developed an arched ceiling and a system of vaults. Roman vaults are striking in their imagery, scale, and abundance of variety. Perhaps the highest achievement of Roman design thought was the closed fairy vault, usually called a dome. One of the most perfect examples of Roman architecture is the Pantheon, the temple of all the gods, built in Rome in 125 AD. Want to know more about Architectural styles? Then we’ll tell you everything you need to know!

Is architecture an art?

Individual buildings and their ensembles, squares and avenues, parks and stadiums, villages and entire cities – their beauty is able to evoke certain feelings and moods in viewers. That is what makes architecture an Art – the art of creating buildings and structures according to the laws of beauty. And, as any art form, architecture is closely connected with the life of society, its history, attitudes, and ideology. The best architectural buildings and ensembles are remembered as symbols of countries and cities.

Every human civilization developed with its characteristic architectural style, which symbolized a certain historical period, its character, main features, and political ideology. Architectural monuments are capable to inform about what people valued at the time of their construction, what was the standard of beauty in architecture at that time, how enlightened in terms of cultural development was their way of life, etc. The largest ancient civilizations are still often associated with incomparable architectural masterpieces that have survived to this day. This is a fabulous Egypt with its marvelous pyramids, the Great Wall in exotic China, and the majestic Colosseum as a historical architectural trace of the Roman Empire… There are an infinite number of such examples.

The era of rapid technological development in the modern world gives architects endless opportunities to implement the most daring ideas into reality, thanks to which today there are such architectural styles as high-tech and art nouveau. In comparison, for example, the controversial Baroque or the ancient Romanesque trend is characterized by boldness and persistence of solutions, bright ideas, and a variety of materials. However, despite the rapid and assertive movement of new modern trends, the old mansions, palaces, and cathedrals, which play an important role as a kind of symbol of the city or state where they are located, will never lose their charm and appeal. These buildings seem to exist beyond all time, awe-inspiring and delighting true connoisseurs of the art of architecture.

Since time immemorial, people have tried to decorate their homes, to make them not only comfortable but also more memorable and at the same time, unlike other homes. That is why building architecture is considered an art and is one of the oldest components of the entire culture of human society.

What is architecture for Applet3D?

As a professional 3D rendering company for architecture and design, we work with the best experts in the field. To better understand how architecture is perceived these days, we asked our employees to define an architecture and what it means to them. It was exciting. Want to know more? Then get comfortable and go to our YouTube.

What is an architect?

It is impossible to talk about architecture today without mentioning the architecture professionals. Many of us think of architects as “people who design buildings”. But the architect’s role is much broader. An architect is highly qualified in the art and science of building design. He is engaged in the organization of space as a whole. Architects are responsible for the convenient layout of the designed buildings, thinking over the landscape and interior design of facilities, all technical, spatial, and aesthetic elements. The buildings created by them should be not only attractive inside and outside, but also comfortable to use – convenient entrances, exits, enough space, and lighting. Cozy, safe homes and offices, well-designed urban environments, beautiful parks, and squares – all this is the merit of architects.

The responsibilities of architects vary depending on factors such as where they live, the type of firm they work for, and some others. They can be involved in all stages of a construction project: from explaining ideas to clients and contractors and drawing up plans and specifications to overseeing the various stages of construction. Sometimes they have to adapt their plans according to budget constraints, environmental factors, and client needs. The architect must communicate directly with clients and project designers, monitor the progress of construction, and ensure that deadlines are met, the project is properly executed and the necessary materials are used. He is also obliged to take an active part in making complex decisions concerning construction projects, conducting consultations, and checking project documentation. Architects often collaborate with a team of other professionals, such as project managers, building services engineers, construction managers, quantity surveyors, interior designers, etc.

An architect must earn a professional degree from an accredited university or college. They typically study the history and theory of architecture, construction methods, building design, mathematics, computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), physical sciences, and other humanities disciplines. To work as an architect, regardless of the type, it is also necessary to obtain a state professional license,  authorizing the work.  All architects must work with clients, local and state governments, and construction crews to ensure that their plans create a safe structure that meets both the client’s needs and building codes. This is why a professional license is mandatory as they are responsible for the safety of the people in the building.

Architects must have the following individual skills: 

• Spatial thinking;
• Knowledge of building codes, regulations, and standards;
• Skill in the independent development of basic design solutions required working documentation, and architectural drawings;
• Knowledge of computer-aided design systems (AutoCAD, Autodesk, Graphisoft ArchiCAD);
• Knowledge of design and calculation methods;
• Knowledge of the basics of cartography, geodesy, and ecology;
• Developed aesthetic and artistic taste, and skills in drawing, graphics, and composition;
• Artistic imagination and creative vision;
• The presence of mathematical and analytical abilities, and constructive abilities.

Architecture as an art form lies at the intersection of art itself and science. It is impossible to become an architect without knowing physics and mathematics (especially geometry), but you must also have an aesthetic sense, the ability to see, feel, understand and create beauty, and the ability to grasp the beauty in the surrounding objects and phenomena.

What do architects do?

In their work, industry professionals have to face many architectural challenges and solve many problems. People’s lives literally depend on their vigilance, responsibility, and expertise. That is why the work of an architect is often considered very stressful. Here are some of the main responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of architects:

• Thinking through the concept of structures and interiors;
• Creating building designs and highly detailed sketches and drawings, both by hand and with specialized computer-aided design (CAD) applications;
• Definition of the requirements for each project;
• Carrying out the technical calculations necessary for the correct execution of the projects;
• Preparation of layouts;
• Elaboration of the project documentation with detailed information about the construction and materials;
• Preparation and presentation of reports, proposals, bids, and contracts;
• Completing planning applications and obtaining advice from local authorities, lawyers, and government departments on new construction;
• Securing project approvals and obtaining permits from regulatory agencies;
• Accounting for restrictions (environmental impact, project budget, city planning laws, etc.);
• Site surveys;
• Adapting plans to the circumstances and solving any problems that may arise during the construction
• Drawing up an estimate;
• Project and team management, construction supervision;
• Communicating with customers, contractors, and material suppliers.

The process of an architect’s work on any project is as follows:

Design and consultation: The architect should consult with clients, learn their wishes and requirements for the future project, and finally prepare appropriate drawings and concept specifications.

Documentation: The architect prepares the necessary documentation. This includes detailed drawings (the project is often finalized and revised to ensure the finished result is fully satisfied by the client), construction instructions, and technical specifications for the construction professionals who will work on-site.

Construction: The architect fully manages the construction and implementation of the project, visits the construction site, meets with the construction team, negotiates with contractors, and resolves all emerging issues and problems.

As Norman Foster once said: “As an architect, you design for the present, with an awareness of the past for a future which is essentially unknown”. There are many definitions of architecture by famous architects and figures of all time. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Great architects’ quotes 

Purpose of architecture: why is architecture important?

Architecture is the oldest field of human activity. Starting from primitive society, it has accompanied humans throughout history. One of man’s first conscious actions was to create a dwelling. Caves, huts, and dugouts protected them from wind, rain, cold and wild beasts. In these first “homes” people lived, cooked food over a fire, made tools, celebrated a successful hunt, and elected leaders. Gradually, the circle of human knowledge and practical skills became wider and less dependent on the whims of nature. Along with the dwelling, other types of buildings began to be built: trading areas and warehouses, harbors for ships, temples, and churches for worship, and theaters for spectacles. Thus, the main purpose of architecture is the erection of buildings and structures in which human life takes place. However, it is not to be limited to this.

Architecture is more than just constructing a building to provide a home. The architecture is aimed at improving human life; creating timeless, free, joyful spaces for all the activities of life. The most important task of architecture is also how it creates a way of life for those who live, work, or meet in it. Every single building or its complexes and ensembles, parks, avenues, streets and squares, whole cities and even small towns are able to evoke specific feelings and moods, to make us experience inexpressible emotions. This occurs through the impact on them a certain idea and semantic information that the authors have put in their architectural works. Any building is subordinated to a specific purpose, which should correspond to its appearance, which adjusts people to the established way. 

The architect’s task is to build such a building that will not only meet the practical tasks but also at the same time emotionally affect a person, and generate certain thoughts and feelings. In order to implement his artistic idea, the architect takes into account the purpose of the building, the aim, and idea of construction, and the features of the environment. If, for example, he seeks to distinguish his building from others, to emphasize its importance, then he builds it on a hill. Accordingly, the building like rises above other buildings and the surrounding nature. An example is the famous ancient Greek temple Parthenon, which is built on top of a high hill. The building is visible from everywhere, it seems to “float” above the city and stands out against the background of nature.

The basis of the work of the architect is to find the most successful composition, which will be the most harmonious combination of various parts and details of the future building, as well as the surface finish of the created “masterpiece” of architecture. The main artistic device of emotional impact on the beholder is the form of the building and its components, which can be light or heavy, calm or dynamic, monochrome or colored. However, the obligatory condition here is the coordination of all the individual parts among themselves and with the entire building as a whole, creating an indivisible impression of harmony. This is the importance of architecture. 

Architecture visualization 

The range of architectural and design services is wide and varied, but no high-quality modern project can not be realized without such technology as architectural rendering. Architectural 3D visualization has really become an integral part of the work on any architectural project. Architectural rendering is a graphical representation of the object, which allows you to evaluate and imagine the external characteristics of any future building. 3D visualization of the architectural structure allows you to move the discussion with the customer to a whole new level and greatly reduces the time for decision-making. Visualization is much clearer for a potential buyer and future customer than drawings and sketches. It effectively presents the project, contributing to a positive decision by the investor. You can use it on the company website, in presentations, and catalogs, and create a presentation video clip and virtual tour based on a 3D model.

In addition to the general appearance of the building, its facades, windows, and roof, presented from all angles, the customer has the opportunity to consider all the smallest details and elements and, if necessary, to make changes of any nature by going through a variety of options. A three-dimensional, detailed picture exactly shows how well the structure fits into the surrounding, existing landscape and whether it is in harmony with neighboring structures. In addition, the use of 3D visualization at the stage preceding the repair and construction work avoids unnecessary costs due to poor design decisions or the selection of improper building and finishing materials. Finally, the use of 3D computer graphics and high-quality rendering, providing an image with an exceptional degree of clarity and reliability, helps the viewer to achieve an effect of direct presence. We can say that in this way 3D renderings allow you to literally look into the future.

Our architectural visualization studio will help you breathe life into any of your projects. Applet3D offers a wide range of services, from the creation of photorealistic renders to 3D animation. We start each of our work with an individual approach, we guarantee a great result and meet deadlines. You can evaluate our abilities on your own experience, entrusting us with the development of your project. We will help you create realistic visualizations that immerse any viewer in the atmosphere of the image. Take the first step to bringing your idea!

Conclusion

Architecture surrounds people everywhere and throughout their lives: it is their home, their place of work, and their place of rest. A person wakes up in his apartment in the morning to go to the office or school, eats lunch in the dining room or restaurant during the day, and relaxes in the evening by going to the movies, the theater, or playing sports at the stadium. If you think back to where you were last week, you will find that you visited at least a dozen very different buildings, and each one corresponds to the process that takes place in it (work, food, leisure, study, entertainment, exercise, treatment, trade, and more). Architecture should satisfy the practical needs of man, but it is also able to evoke “aesthetic excitement” to fascinate and amaze.

There are simply many views on the definition of architecture. This concept is so broad and deep that each person can perceive it differently. That is why, in this article, we tried to figure out “What does architecture mean?”, and what is the purpose of architecture. We also defined who is an architect, talked about architecture in art, and listed top quotes from well-known professionals in this field.