Classical Architecture: A Modern Take On The Design Principles
Classical architecture has always served as the foundation for modern architectural design. So it's not uncanny to find its traces in modern pieces and structures. However, it is also important to note that the classical architecture referred to here is strictly limited to principles derived from Greek and Roman philosophy.
This has translated into a branch of architecture exclusive to cultural diversity and limited in its scope of style and design. While design principles in architecture have significantly refined and improved over centuries, the foundation is still based on faulty premises. This article briefly discusses the limited scope of classical architecture and principles to meet today's versatile design needs.
What Is Classical Architecture?
Classical architecture refers to architectural styles derived from Greek and Roman philosophy. Concepts of utility, strength, and beauty heavily influence the styles and designs in classical architecture. In other words, classical architecture strives to reach the perfect harmony between aesthetics, logic, and symmetry.
A prominent feature found in classical architectural styles is the extensive use of columns. Motifs and ornamentation are other features that dominate this style of architecture. The following elements characterize classical architecture:
Symmetry and proportion: Every design and style should be mathematically proportional and symmetrical to establish a logical flow of order. Symmetry in classical philosophy is considered the essence of beauty and aesthetics.
Facades and pediments: Following the principle of logical order, the front facades in a structure must feature prominent columns and ornamentation. The upper portion is ideally a triangle, otherwise, an arch-shaped pediment.
Building Materials: Strength is a key consideration in classical architecture. Therefore, all structures are built using durable materials like stone, brick, marble, and concrete.
A Modern Take:
Design principles and styles from classical architecture can be found in famous modern structures like the US Capitol and US Supreme Court Building. The use of columns and pediments is a precise implementation of classical architecture theories. However, when discussing classism in modern architecture, it is essential to note the design principles' limited scope.
The biggest drawback of classical architecture is the blatant western bias in the very definition of what contributes as “classic.” The term classical effectively excludes traditional design principles and styles from cultures like Egypt, China, and the Indian subcontinent. In contrast, principles of classism can be found in other cultural architectural styles with slight variations.
For instance, symmetry, balance, and grandeur are underlying principles used in the construction of ancient Egyptian buildings. Similarly, Chinese architecture used principles of bilateral symmetry, directional hierarchies, and symbolic elements. Arches, columns, and motifs were standard features of ancient Indian architecture.
The 5 Principles Of Modern Architecture:
In response to the constraints of classical architecture, modern design principles take a much more liberal approach. Although still derived from the foundational concepts of classism, modern design principles incorporate other traditions and cultural influences. Le Corbusier is attributed to the development of design principles based on modern architecture. The theory of design includes the following elements:
Pilotis: Use of columns to elevate a building from ground level
Free Floor Plans: Removing structural loads from design for greater floor flexibility
Free Facades: Facades separate from the building’s structural components
Ribbon Windows: Horizontal windows throughout the facade for better lighting
Roof Gardens: Incorporating nature by utilizing roof space for gardens.
Today, residential designers widely use modern design principles to bring a fusion of cultures to home architecture.
Final Thoughts:
There is no denying that classical architecture has given rise to some of the finest monuments and buildings. However, its limited definition has excluded architectural genius from other cultures from coming into the limelight. Concepts of classism found in other cultures can today conveniently find a place in modern design principles without attributing a specific philosophy as superior.