{"id":16912,"date":"2023-11-24T09:42:01","date_gmt":"2023-11-24T08:42:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.architecturemaker.com\/?p=16912"},"modified":"2023-11-24T09:42:01","modified_gmt":"2023-11-24T08:42:01","slug":"how-does-architecture-influence-culture","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.architecturemaker.com\/how-does-architecture-influence-culture\/","title":{"rendered":"How Does Architecture Influence Culture"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Architecture Impacting People’s Emotional Response<\/h2>\n

At its core, architecture is not only about construction. It serves to make a connection between people. While building structures come with their practical, functional value to a culture, there is so much more to consider in terms of their societal impact. The architecture of a given place speaks to the identity, the ethos, and the cultural traditions of those living there, raising it to something more than the sum of its parts.
\nWhen humans look around their environment, they tend to subconsciously get a sense of what all the components are telling them. This phenomenon, otherwise known as environmental psychology, is based on the notion that physical spaces are as much a part of someone’s identity as their behaviors and thoughts. The buildings, sculptures, roads, and parks of a town or a city are all reflections of its history, its culture, and its values. As such, they have a great influence on how the inhabitants of a place view themselves, as well as how they present themselves to the world beyond.
\nFor example, the architecture in Paris is said to be a symbol of romance and sophistication. The grandeur of the Eiffel Tower and the beauty of the Champs-Élysées makes Paris one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This type of architecture has a powerful visual effect on people, eliciting an emotional response that has become associated with the French culture.
\nThe concept of “place-making” or creating a space that speaks to its inhabitants is another common way architecture influences culture. Through the process of place-making, artists can create a unique aesthetic that reflects the values, history, and identity of a place. A prime example of this is the Spanish city of Seville. Seville’s distinctive architecture, such as the ornate Arabian-style courtyards, is renowned for creating a sense of warmth and joy among its residents. This type of architecture also serves to draw in tourists and help boost the economy of the city.<\/p>\n

Design of a Building Influencing its Use<\/h2>\n

Just as the design of a building can influence the people in the area, it can also influence the way people use a space. This idea is known as “form follows function”, and it suggests that the design of a building should be based around its purpose. For instance, a church has tall spires that act as a reminder of its religious significance. Similarly, a library should look inviting so as to encourage visitors to come in and explore its resources.
\nThis concept ties back to the notion of place-making; the goal is to create a living, breathing space that can be used for a variety of purposes. Take for instance, the hotel lobbies of the 20th century. Instead of just being used for check-ins and check-outs, lobbies became multi-functional spaces for people to spend their leisure time and socialize. This transformation of the lobby’s purpose is said to have had a significant impact on the culture of the time, as it helped spur on the development of a service industry that allowed people to connect with others in more meaningful ways.<\/p>\n

Style of Architecture Demonstrating Wealth and Power<\/h2>\n

Another key way architecture can influence culture is the way it reflects values and attitudes. Generally, what is considered aesthetically pleasing changes over time due to shifts in styles and preferences. These shifts can have complex cultural implications, as certain designs may be favored over others due to their implications of wealth or power. A prime example of this is the French Renaissance-era chateau, with its asymmetrical towers and ornate trim. This type of architecture was favored by the wealthy elite of the time, and it became an aspirational symbol of success among the middle and lower classes.
\nThe use of modernist architecture can also be seen as a way of displaying power, as its sleek, minimalist ethos was a sign of its user’s ability to embrace the future and push boundaries. This type of architecture was once quite controversial, but its influence grew as time went on and it soon became the go-to style for those who wanted to make a statement. In other words, architecture can serve as a symbol for its user’s position within the cultural milieu.<\/p>\n

Architecture Steeped in Social Dynamics<\/h2>\n

In addition to its aesthetic and scholarly implications, architecture also speaks to societal dynamics. This can include movements such as gentrification, or altering an area to cater to a wealthier demographic. It can also involve deconstructing existing architectural sites in order to make way for new developments, which can result in displacement of its inhabitants.
\nArchitecture can also be used to represent certain ideals and ways of thinking, such as sustainable design. For example, the German government recently created a “living laboratory” in order to test innovative ideas regarding green architecture. This initiative seeks to push the boundaries of sustainable living, encouraging others to start thinking about ways in which they can reduce their impact on the environment.<\/p>\n

Architecture Reflecting Cultural Relevance<\/h2>\n