Function of Architecture
Architecture provides the framework for visualizing and constructing a range of built forms. It is important for enabling societies to express their culture, their values and aspirations, and for providing cities and communities with places in which to live, work and play. Architecture also serves a functional purpose and has a direct influence on the human environment and our daily lives.
Architecture is a reflection of the cultural, social, economic and environmental context of the time and place it was created in. It is a discipline that involves a creative blend of form, space, materials and construction techniques to generate and manipulate visual effects.
Architecture enables people to express themselves through their built environment and is often used to convey status and power. However, its most significant function is to support those who inhabit, visit or use its structures. The needs, aspirations and activities of the people that use a building need to be taken into account when designing.
Architecture can also be used for tackling social and economic issues such as poverty and homelessness. Architects can design social housing, roads and other public places to help address and alleviate issues associated with these topics.
From an engineering perspective, architecture is an essential part of the design and construction of a structure, helping to ensure that it is strong, safe and resilient. Good architecture will support the structure in both function and form.
Architects use their skills to transform the everyday and mundane into something which has the ability to inspire. An architect will not just create a building; they will design a space that will foster a sense of community, lead to wellbeing, and that people can use to express themselves.
Appropriateness
Architecture should be appropriate to the context it is being designed in and the users it is designed for. Each building must meet certain requirements in terms of its planning, building materials, design elements, energy efficiency, and its relationship with people and their environment.
An appropriate design must consider local conditions such as the available space, climate, terrain and environment. For example, in hot climates, architects may design buildings with large windows that can be opened to promote natural ventilation.
Architects must also consider the purpose of the building. They need to ensure that it is suitable for the specific function and its needs. A good example of this is a hospital building – architects must ensure that the design of the building accommodates the medical equipment, provides the necessary space for patients, medical staff, and is accessible for those with limited mobility.
It is also important that architecture is appropriate for the culture it is being built in. An appropriate design will consider the context, traditions, religious aspects and customs of the people in order to ensure that it will be accepted and used by them.
Socio-cultural Implications
Architecture can have a profound impact on the communities that inhabit it. Buildings can evoke positive emotions, protect people from the elements, promote safety and enhance the quality of life.
Architectural design can also be used to improve the social capital of a community. Public spaces can be designed to provide a safe place for people to interact, support community life and encourage positive social behaviour.
Architecture can also promote cultural identity and pride in a community. Buildings which reflect the values and aspirations of a community can help people feel connected and proud to be part of it.
A good example of how architecture can be used to promote community pride is the Eiffel tower in Paris. It has become a symbol of Parisian culture, and it is believed to have led to an increase in national pride and identity.
Architecture can also be used for preserving and celebrating a culture’s history. For example, ancient Greek and Roman architecture was used to symbolize the power, wealth and grandeur of those civilizations.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
In recent years, architects have become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their designs. Architects design buildings which are energy efficient and use sustainable materials to reduce their negative environmental impact.
Architectural designs that use passive design principles such as natural ventilation, passive cooling and shading can greatly reduce the amount of energy required to keep a build comfortable for occupants.
The use of sustainable materials such as sustainable timber, bamboo and recycled timber can also reduce the environmental impact of a building. The incorporation of renewable energy sources, green roofs and rainwater collection systems can also help reduce the environmental impact of a building.
Adaptability
Architecture should be designed with future generations in mind and should be able to adapt to changes in its environment. Buildings should be able to accommodate changes in technology, society and population size, as well as climate change.
Architects use a variety of strategies to ensure that a building is adaptable and resilient to change. Buildings should be designed to be flexible and able to easily accommodate changes in its usage. For example, modular designs allow for convenient and easy adaptability.
In addition, building materials should be considered for their age and durability to ensure that the building will remain structurally sound for a long period of time. Dynamic materials such as ‘Smart Materials’ can also be incorporated into the design to ensure the building is resilient and adaptable for future changes.
Human-centered Design
Architecture should be designed from the perspective of the people who will inhabit it. Human Centered Design (HCD) is an important part of the design process and involves the systematic gathering and analysis of data about the people who will be using the building, their needs and expectations, and the context in which the building will be used.
HCD enables architects to design buildings which are tailored to their users’ needs and take into account their preferences and behaviour. This can help ensure that the building is comfortable and suitable for its intended use.
HCD also encourages architects to take into account wider considerations such as accessibility, safety and security. Ensuring that a building is accessible to people with disabilities is a key part of providing an inclusive built environment.
Material Selection
The selection of appropriate materials is important for ensuring the successful execution of an architectural design. The choice of materials should be based on their suitability for the particular context, their ability to with stand the elements, their availability, cost and potential impact on the environment.
Architects must consider the physical properties of materials such as its strength, thermal properties and durability when selecting them for a project. The aesthetics of materials are also important, as they will contribute to the overall appearance of the building.
The type of construction techniques used to construct the building will also influence the choice of materials. For example, an architect may select timber for construction due to its lightweight, strength and ability to be cut, shaped and moulded.
Conclusion
Architecture is an integral part of our lives and plays a significant role in the way we experience and interact with our built environment. It has the ability to stimulate, inspire and engage, while also providing a functional purpose.
Good architecture requires that consideration is given to the specific context of its users, its environmental impact, its socio-cultural implications and its physical characteristics. Careful material selection and construction techniques are also important for ensuring the successful completion of a project.
Architecture is a continuously changing field that evolves in response to changes in the environment, culture, technology and society. Architects must remain flexible and innovative in their approach, adapting their designs to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of their users.
