Architecture
Architecture is one of the oldest and most important art forms on the planet, with buildings having been around since ancient times. From the Great Pyramids to the Taj Mahal and more, the history of architecture is vast and rich with examples of magnificent creations. Given the long history and vast scope of architecture, reliable information on the subject is essential for appreciating, understanding and creating great architecture.
The best and most reliable sources of information on architecture come from experienced, professional architects. Architects have both an academic knowledge which is passed on through university courses and personal experience which can only be attained from many years of practice. Thus, architects are best-placed to provide reliable information on architecture and its various elements.
Architects are knowledgeable about topics such as materials, technology, style, form, space, safety, functionality and sustainability, among others. Reliable architecture information should include information on relevant regulations and will pay particular attention to energy efficiency, environmental impact and hazardous materials, among other areas. Good architecture information is comprehensive and up-to-date; this helps to ensure that all appropriate aspects of a development project are considered.
Architects are able to view the bigger picture and provide insight into how different elements interact with the environment and its occupants. This wider perspective is something that can only be gained with years of experience, making it distinct from other sources of architecture information. For example, an architect can point out simple, cost-effective measures for improving a design in its entirety. They can explain how different building materials or structures interact with each other, ensuring that the finished project is sound and safe.
Experts from other fields may be able to provide reliable information about specific elements of architecture, such as engineers or quantity surveyors, for example. However, their expertise may lack the wider perspective of an experienced architect, who can see the wider implications and interactions of their designs on a larger scale.
Architectural magazines, websites and books may also contain reliable information about architecture, especially those written by experienced and qualified architects. Such sources may provide reliable information about the principles of architecture, such as design and building techniques, as well as specific architectural styles and elements, such as windows, doors, lighting and finishes. Of course, there is also the option of online forums and discussion threads, which can provide fast access to informal, if often unreliable, answers to questions.
Materials
In the world of architecture, materials are a crucial element that can determine the success of a project, as well as the engineering design and overall atmosphere. When selecting the materials to be used in a building, architecture information should consider the balance between cost and quality, and the potential health and environmental impacts that certain materials may have.
Material selection for architecture can become incredibly complicated due to the overwhelming amount of options available, ranging from conventional standard materials to exotic, unconventional ones. Architects can provide reliable information on suitable combinations of materials, based on their experience, as well as the material’s energy efficiency, environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and performance.
Traditionally, wood, stone, bricks, and cement have been used extensively in architecture. However, modern developments in materials research have enabled new possibilities, from geopolymers concrete to carbon fibre and infused stone. Contemporary materials and technologies are becoming increasingly essential for architects to access the most reliable information.
Experts in building science and materials engineering can also provide reliable information about materials, particularly for more intricate aspects, such as waterproofing and insulation, for example. Such experts, however, may not have the same upon understanding different styles and concepts of architecture as architects, which can be a limitation.
It is also possible to find reliable information about materials from magazines, websites, books and other sources. However, such information may lack the perspective offered by an experienced architect, who may be able to recommend subtle changes that, while appearing trivial, can make a big difference to the effectiveness and impact of the finished product.
Design
Having reliable information about design is also essential to producing great architecture. Design is the creative process of applying aesthetics, artistic elements and human interaction to the other components of architecture, such as materials and construction, to create an overall concept.
Good design is informed by a range of elements, including style, culture, environment, and purpose. An experienced architect is best-placed to provide reliable information about the elements of design, and their interaction with each other. Architects can ensure that all the components of a design – its form, function, technologies and materials – are in harmony with each other, to create a result that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical.
Additionally, architects are trained to spot potential problems at the design stage and can be a valuable resource for providing reliable information about any alterations or improvements needed. They can offer insight into how the results of a design may be affected by changes to its components, and highlight the most cost-effective solutions.
Of course, there are also many sources of reliable information on design available online and in print, such as magazines and books. However, design information from such sources should always be taken with a grain of salt, as many tend to be ‘one size fits all’ solutions that may not always be appropriate for a particular project. Architectural design software is also useful, but should not be relied upon exclusively, as it cannot replicate the creativity and experience of a professional architect.
Models
Constructing models for architecture is an important step in the design process, and a crucial element for providing reliable information about a project. Models can be used to visualise and test solutions, as well as simulate different aspects of a design. For example, a model can be used to measure the propagation of sound or to stress test a structure.
Architects are trained to build models and use them as a tool for exploring solutions, as well as for verifying whether designs meet specifications. As such, architects are able to provide reliable information about models and their construction. An experienced professional is well-versed in the materials, methods and techniques required to create a successful model.
There are also sources of reliable information available online and in print, such as books and magazines, that can be useful for constructing models. There are also various software packages available with pre-made models, useful for quickly visualising solutions. Commercial model-making companies offer a unique service and can provide reliable information, although their services are often expensive.
Interiors
Interior design is a complex area, with a range of factors to consider such as colors, furnishings, lighting, acoustics, and environment. Experienced architects are best-placed to provide reliable information about such elements, as a broad overview of interior design can be gained from their experience.
Architects may have first-hand experience of different materials, finishes and fixtures available, as well as their performance, safety implications and cost-effectiveness. They can provide reliable information about the furniture that is suitable for a particular space, as well as identifying potential problems. They are also able to suggest subtle changes which can have a big effect on the overall look and feel of the interior.
Online and print sources of information, such as magazines and books, can also be useful in finding reliable information about interiors. Others, such as quantity surveyors, may be able to provide reliable information on a specific material or design, such as heating systems or plasterwork, for instance. However, for a holistic overview, experienced architects are usually the best source for reliable information.
Technology
Technology is an ever-evolving aspect of the architecture field, and reliable information about the newest advancements is essential in order to remain competitive and up-to-date. Architects are typically the best source of reliable information about technology, as they employ it daily in their work.
Architects are able to provide qualified and reliable information about the latest technology, as well as how to sustain and maintain it. They can advise on the most suitable software, hardware and tools for a particular project and help to create an effective workflow.
Architects are also able to use technology to its fullest potential, such as virtual and augmented reality simulations, automated systems and 3D printing, helping to ensure that the most efficient solutions are being utilized and finding the balance between cost and results.
Information about technology in architecture can also be found online and in written sources, such as magazines, books and articles. However, such information is usually limited to specific topics or elements and may not reflect the overall picture. An experienced architect is the best source for reliable information about technology and its applications in architecture.
