Ellena Olik
When you think of a place, one of the key features you remember most is the architecture. Take Camden in London, for example. The area is admired for incorporating old historic buildings and vibrant urban markets together. Architecture aims to show the style, personality, and purpose of a place in a creative form. Even though architecture has changed throughout the years, we can still recognise previous elements of older architecture in the world today. From the vaulted ceilings of the Renaissance to the flying buttresses of the Gothic, architecture has established a long-standing platform for creativity. Ellena Olik enlightens us on the current innovations within the architectural field.
But why do some believe that architecture is losing its artistic ability?
Some criticise that modern advancements in technology ruin the creative thinking behind the designs. Meanwhile, others argue that architecture has become ugly and unattractive. However, is architecture’s new fast approach to design and construction because of urbanisation? At the beginning of the 20th century, Industrialisation was huge. Many jobs were created and the need for people to live in the city became larger. Urbanisation spread and the demand for infrastructure rose tremendously. So, if you were an architect then, would you have carried on with traditional methods of architecture? Most likely, not!
Unlike architecture of the past, modern-day architecture is forced to keep up with demands from a rising population. But is this a valid excuse for forgoing all creativity? Below, we explore this idea more deeply.
When we go to see Westminster Abbey in London or Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, we admire the effort and time put into the structure. However, this sometimes feels fleeting or barren in modern architecture.
The boom in technology has been a major contributor to the vast demand for architecture. Structures are designed by advanced technologies to help speed up the process. However, elements of creativity do feel lost. Past architecture was traditionally constructed by hand and involved heavy labour and a strong commitment to the project. We see a sense of character and pride apparent in many of the older buildings in the world. When we go to see Westminster Abbey in London or Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, we admire the effort and time put into the structure. However, this sometimes feels fleeting or barren in modern architecture. Some argue that a lot of buildings now look very similar or feel very robotic and monotonous. Yet, we are drawn to these older works of architecture because of their history. Something that modern buildings are limited in because they are current. We know how modern buildings are constructed and don’t need our imagination to envision this. Perhaps this is why we don’t always feel a sense of awe looking at modern architecture.
However, as a society that continues to progress, should the appearance of buildings really matter? Instead of focusing on image, some architects are much more concerned with producing sustainable and environmentally friendly projects against the threat of urbanisation.
So, what is sustainable architecture?
Sustainable architecture aims to reduce the negative effects of building on the environment. Not only does it support the restoration of the environment, but also endeavours to improve quality of life and economic sustainability. Using recycled, repurposed products and renewable materials can help to improve the health and safety of the population. For example, smart electronics are built into homes for water recirculation, and the prevention of water waste. Helping both the people, and the environment. Although there is still the question of how sustainable these procedures are, it is great to see architecture continuing to evolve. While searching for alternative ways to help the planet, architects are able to become creative in a different way. Prioritising the environment allows architects to incorporate nature into the designs of their buildings. For example, One Central Park in Australia, is a multifaceted residential apartment tower, with a retail shopping centre at the base. It has a range of green features, like green roofs, a water harvesting system, and a cantilevered heliostat. The apartment complex is visually appealing but also serves a higher purpose by being sustainable. So yes, architecture has not lost its creative touch yet!
What about our own city?
Though we are not known for our architecture here in Nottingham, there are still buildings which inspire and uphold sustainable ideals. Reflecting on the city’s heritage, Nottingham Contemporary (Art Gallery) is embossed with a traditional Nottingham lace pattern, celebrating the historic Lace Market quarter of the city. Elsewhere, our focus on innovation and enterprise is echoed by Jubilee Campus’ use of solar and wind energy, to reduce energy use. The city is also aiming to create more green spaces, such as the new ‘Green Heart’ near Nottingham Train Station.
So, whilst we understand that urbanisation is a threat to the creativity of architecture, it is not the end. New ideas, especially featuring sustainable models, are a perfect avenue for architects to follow. Incorporating nature in architecture begins a new chapter in the field. Simultaneously, architecture becomes something new and exciting, whilst the environment is able to heal and flourish. Yes, urbanisation is a huge bane to society. But, without the problems that come from urbanisation, can we really say that we would have taken a sustainable path in architecture? I guess that’s something we’ll never know…
Ellena Olik
Featured image courtesy of anthony mcgee via Unsplash. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.
In article image 1 courtesy of Benjamin Cheng via Unsplash. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.
In article image 2 courtesy of Snehil Jonathan via Unsplash. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.
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