Design has changed over the years due to the development of new architectures, and the death and rise of different societies. Many factors dictate the style of architecture in any given period – the available type of construction materials, possible technological developments, contemporary trends, and, of course, the practical requirements. For instance, architectural designs evolve, and as this happens, different procedures and constructional materials are also adopted.
Classical Architecture
Perhaps some of the oldest categorizations of such structures began with the architects from ancient Greece and Rome. Classical architecture features certain major elements such as symmetrical arrangements, proportionality, columns, entablatures, and ornaments. Some of the most famous ones are the Parthenon, Pantheon, and the Colosseum. Greek classical architecture used stones to build and had post and lintel Construction Estimating Service where columns supported beams and roofs. This developed to the use of concrete and arches during the Roman empire as mentioned earlier by this author.
Romanesque and Gothic Styles
Architecture changed over time after the fall of Rome due to the invasion of Christianity in Europe. The aspect of rounded arches was established in the Romanesque style alongside the massive quality of the structures. Gothic architecture took the improvements in engineering to build some of the wonderful cathedrals and structures with high ceilings, pointed arches, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and an enormous of windows and light. These versatile Gothic forms depended on a stone and timber frame to reach new elevated heights.
Renaissance Architecture
European Renaissance saw the revival of several of the elements that the Greeks and the Romans were known for like symmetry and proportion and columns. The special features of the Gothic architectural style were combined with linear perspective and classical orders in Renaissance buildings. Techniques of construction also went on evolving and so the possibility of constructing domes and complicated floor plans were within reach. The Cathedral of Florence and the Church of San Lorenzo are examples of the beautiful detailed work done on most Renaissance buildings.
Baroque Architecture
With the growth of the domains of European monarchs in the 16th to 18th centuries, the Baroque style emerged. This style is characterized by elaborate stucco work, the use of the arc, gilding and the overall monumental, generous, and perhaps ostentatious interior indicating power and affluence. New engineering possibilities provided the possibilities for the towering domes and the lavish creations of Baroque architecture where symbolic imagery trumped utility. Some of the famous landmarks are the Palace of Versailles in France and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London among others.
Neoclassical Architecture
Neoclassical architecture thus revived the passion for Greco-Roman architecture from the mid-seventeenth century. Neoclassical architecture has straight lines, precise geometric shapes, colossal columns, triangularly framed facades, and domed circular cupolas like the classical archetypes. They were mostly made from brick with smooth-faced stone on the face of the building. Some of the most renowned examples of Neoclassical architecture are the White House, Capitol Building, and Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.
Steel Revolution
The invention of steel in the nineteenth century proved to be a big revolution, especially for architects and builders. Steel gave strong support in the construction of structures such as tall commercial buildings, including skyscrapers which became characteristic of cityscapes. New technological developments in the production and fabrication of steel made their cost cheaper by the adoption of industrial production. New building forms were introduced through prefabricated steel skeleton frames including columns, beams, and tension cables. Glass curtain walls emerged as exterior beams and were designed for extensive internal lighting.
Modern Architecture
The absence of nonessential decoration, another feature of 20th century Modern architecture can be seen in minimalist structures without embellishment or frieze. Many modernist architects get to use new ways of construction such as reinforced concrete and steel to make what can be described as modern geometric shapes or even curved walls and organic shapes. The contemporary examples of modern architecture are Falling Water House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright as well as the Guggenheim Museum in New York designed by Frank Gehry.
Sustainable Building Practices
Modern Construction Estimating Companies processes and styles give preference to the lowering of negative impact on the environment and utilization of energy-efficient solutions. The building structure and materials are more renewable and less damaging to the environment such as bamboo and timber. Other features such as photovoltaic solar boards, green roofs, smart windows, and rainwater capture systems are also more and more being integrated. The strategies chosen include proper positioning of the building for passive solar gain, natural ventilation, and adequate daylighting to minimize the need for artificial lighting and climate control. Sustainable architecture is principally concerned with reducing energy use as fears over climate change intensify in the 21st century.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is said that architectural styles and Construction Estimating Services techniques vary due to the availability of resources and culture and the advancement of technology throughout human civilization. We also persist in changing both exterior and interior images to enhance working conditions, living standards, and people’s identities with surroundings and nature through green architecture. It would be quite interesting to predict the kind of architecture that shall come into existence in the decades as well as centuries to come.
