In the words of Le Corbusier, a pioneer of modernism, “Today I am accused of being a revolutionary, yet I confess to having had only one master: the past; and only one discipline: the study of the past.”
These words themselves prove the importance of architectural history. The history of architecture is almost as long and complex as the history of humanity. The exact origin of the architecture dates back to the Neolithic period, about 10,000 BC, or simply when humans stopped living in caves and began deciding how they wanted their homes to appear and feel. The powerful material presence justifies the parallelism of architecture to human history while providing the best concrete proof of societal development. It is possible to learn about the development of architecture and our history just by observing the buildings constructed in various locations at various times.
Architectural Lessons from the Past to the Future
Although the architectural language is dynamic, it does not undergo a complete change. Historic architectural styles continue to influence modern design. Different architectural styles represent different eras in its history. The consistent features of these eras are the defining characteristics of sound architecture. The repeated architectural styles demonstrate this continuity. Current architecture reflects the authenticity of the past through the use of time-tested design concepts. There are reminiscences of Greek temple design in Palladian architecture and even some examples of modern design. In order to set up a solid theory of practice, architects must inevitably trace their steps back through architectural history.
There are some lessons that modern architects can take from history. A few points highlighted for modern architects to look at and learn from are below:
01. Evolution and Creativity
The history of architecture stores knowledge on many techniques that evolved during the course of different time periods. The record of unsuccessful strategies is just as important as the record of successful ones. A detailed examination of these will provide useful insights for developing a more innovative strategy. The examination of previous patterns paves the way for innovation. These changing techniques will also lay the groundwork for future requirements. An architect must learn from architectural history in order to build on the experiences of their ancestors.
02. Transience
The only constant in life is change. Nothing is permanent in architecture. The goal of good design is to be in tune with the environment and the socio-cultural community that will be using it. The study of architectural history opens opportunities for discourse on these shifting ideas and architecture’s response to them. A community’s socio-political and geographical triggers might shift over time. An architect must be up-to-date and capable of meeting the needs of his or her clients.
03. Attention to Details
As quoted by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, “God is in the details.” Great architecture pays equal attention to both the small and big details. Details reveal what a structure is and how it is essential to the vitality and character of a neighbourhood. Detail is the smallest unit of architecture. An architectural detail may also be a small part of the whole, yet it has the capacity to define and characterise the overall structure. One of the most consistent tasks of details, it appears, is to bring consistency to a project, whether in terms of style, materials, proportions, or otherwise.
04. Preventing Calamity
Vernacular architecture is the outcome of repeated attempts and errors across several generations. Changes in climate, topography, and regional contexts influence its formation. This is the reason these structures focus on disaster management. Architectural history reveals how different cultures prepared for disasters through their architecture. In addition, it documents the human impact on the environment. Architects must learn to comprehend a region’s catastrophic history as revealed through its architectural history. It also helps one comprehend the various mitigation strategies parallel civilizations use to address similar hazards.
05. Durability
Evolution in technology has resulted in thinner and leaner constructions, adequately equipped to carry the desired strength. Earlier, the buildings were dependent on thick external stone walls and columns for strength and support. On the other hand, modern buildings are dependent on steel-reinforced RCC columns for strength, which result in thin and more aesthetic walls. The main concept revolves around the statement that modern architecture is an extension and adaptation of ancient architecture and its inherent cultures, involving the current trend of fashion.
06. Sustainability
The idea of “sustainability” has been in the spotlight for quite some time. With the advent of new technologies, a number of previous practices have become obsolete. However, there are also negative impacts of technological progress. If one looks at architectural history, the topic of sustainability has come up numerous times throughout history. Similar to the ‘Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle’ slogan popularised by eco-activists in the ’60s and ’70s. Sustainable architecture is a goal that architects have been working towards for some time, but they need to look at historical patterns to figure out how to get there.
07. Using Locally Available Materials
Construction of different structures involves extensively using local materials for a variety of reasons. Wood, stone, sand or any other material that are accessible locally are examples of local materials. They were used because they complemented a region’s aesthetic and were resilient to the local climate. Utilising local materials helps the local economy and reduces the environmental impact of transportation. In addition, the structure fuses with the city’s native culture and becomes one with its surroundings.
08. Incorporating Traditional Concepts
In addition, you can derive modern solutions from traditional concepts. Incorporating traditional designs into contemporary architecture helps tackle climate change. The use of architecture has really worked out well in contemporary buildings. The Brick House at Wada Mumbai is one such example of contemporary vernacular architecture.
The learnings from traditional concepts help us appreciate the global heritage. People are now leaning towards designing sustainable buildings using ingenious techniques and sustainable materials sourced from local sources.
Conclusion
Architectural history teaches us that it is not only about socio-historical processes. It tells a story via architects and their works. The narrative is about the formation of an idea, including any significant influences or setbacks along the way. The masters of architecture were able to forge their unique styles by drawing inspiration from the past. They formed their identities through their understanding of the past and the development of individual design concepts. Having said that, knowing architecture’s history is essential if you want to make a mark in the field.
“The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” – Winston Churchill
Author Bio
Fathima Israr –