Within day-to-day life, there is an ever-present sensation and appreciation of architecture, even if this is a subconscious recognition. Every habitable building and space built by mankind is classified within the boundaries of architecture, extending from apartments to gothic castles. There are vast differences within the complexities of this art, and whether modern architecture remains an art at all.
It is not unrealistic to say that modern architecture and buildings lack a grand and moving sensation. Seeing as how modern buildings are often uninspired in comparison to their predecessors, and that is evidently seen with the contrast of hand built masonry to concrete, seemingly leaving towards accentless and sleek designs–often with minimalist or utilitarian approaches to art. This is commonly seen in suburban and urban areas, with the examples of tall featureless buildings or complexes of commercial nature. I cannot hold any love for these buildings, because I feel that they often have very little character whatsoever. If anything, the character of these minimal and utilitarian designs is grating to the perception of the building. I feel this is a great disservice to the beholders, inhabitants, and frequenters of such buildings.
In the case of lost art, or rather a lack of art within society creates a very grim reality. I could directly cite the pictures of Concrete Siberia, 2020, which depicts the Siberian/Russian concrete architecture. Of which I think the photography is beautifully crafted, and within these glimpses to a very melancholic scene, there is definite wonder. Though these pictures also demonstrate the necessity for character within architecture. Large towering concrete complexes line snow covered paths, all the while accented with industrial fixings. It should be noted that while this architecture is seen in Siberia, it is also very present within areas of the U.S. Where the desolation and lack of character is seen not through heavy snow, but rather cold plain skies and strip malls–aligned alongside plazas of parking lots and spaciousness.
The character of architecture I feel is very important, and within the U.S. there are many examples of perseverance of character–but in modern times perseverance but not continuation. A key facet of this character is the Colonial architecture that America was founded on, which of course over time became hybridized and obsolete. Though undeniably these houses have historical and artistic flavor to them, being that they are examples of an older generation and time period–and in their antiquated ensign reflect degrees of appealing designs. This example is commonly seen in private objects such as houses, though it shines more prominently in the common downtown strips that still have this Germanic-colonial style. Oftentimes, the roads and shops are closer together and the shops feel more authentic and tangible to the mind, whereas their modern counterparts are quite frankly forgettable. An example of this within the vicinity of Arcadia University is the Keswick strip, which holds a number of historical businesses–made more charming to the individual through this preserved architecture. Likewise to this, there is also the extension of colonial architecture to its influences, such as Gregorian. This is commonly seen and hybridized across houses within Pennsylvania.
With the examples of colonial buildings and their influences in mind, an individual can see the vast differences of how impactful a structure can be. One must also consider the different subset of historical and cultural buildings that contrast to modern architecture. To list them, there is gothic revitalization, neoclassical, parkitecture, and many more.
To start with the implications seen from the gothic style, the buildings are often grand in scale and magnificence; bringing forth memories and feelings of the renaissance with handbuilt craftsmanship and time. This architecture is commonly seen throughout Europe, though in the past couple hundred years was revitalized within the U.S. The existence of gothic architecture is seen prominently in the perspective of churches, yet not the occupations of governmental or residential facilities–as this architectural style requires a larger canvas and space. Though nonetheless, the beauty of these buildings alongside others allows for a more human touch of life within day-to-day living–being that this artistic endeavor is a testament to time and devotion to art. Ideally, I think Gothic architecture should be integrated into the modern styles of planning, with key points of this architecture seen by scale or accentuation to the others.
In regards to the neoclassical style, the use and application of this style has been used prominently in urban and federal environments. Though following the themes of lost art, it is now more rarely used within modern buildings. The style was once used strikingly within the U.S. to symbolize a new empire of grace and longevity, in reference to its originators being the Greeks and Romans. This architectural style is full of character and art, with fine engravings and statues often adorning walls. Often feeling refined and detailed, it gives the beholder a distinct sense of history but also confidence within its use and purpose. In contrast to the brutalist use of concrete, neoclassical styles use concrete in many expressive ways and foundations. This style already functions perfectly within society, being that it is used within governmental buildings and grounds. Though the lack of this style’s continuation within modern buildings is disheartening, to see only the remnants of this style on federal associated buildings and long weathered and changed buildings. It feels as though a crucial American style is lost to a newfound minimalism rather than expression, and ultimately a sensation of fleeting charm.
In summary, I believe that the character of architecture speaks volumes with history and culture. The lack of these styles and what they represent artistically is a detriment to daily living, where I feel there is a notion of humanity that is removed from these buildings. For an individual is more likely to recognize the charms of something that appears with connotations of hard work and human endeavors. There are so many different styles that exist within the U.S. that are waning in comparison to modern styles and minimal efforts, and the aspect of listing and describing all of these would amount to a great tome of literature. Though with that noted, I believe individuals must make an effort to recognize the past and present architecture that surround them–to better appreciate the cultures and character or lack thereof. This recognition is crucial to the continuation and perseverance of this culture and breath of life.
In defense of modern architecture and its minimal style, one should consider the fundamental basis of architecture. Which is to provide a habitable structure that serves or intends to serve a utility based purpose. Using minimalist features and modern designs is objectively cheaper and faster than using the historical and cultural designs of Georgian or art deco styles, despite hybridized natures. So, it is evident that the character and humanity of these places are sacrificed for effectiveness. Though, I should pose the question of this lost art. Is this sacrifice really necessary?
Featured image by Ed Robertson on Unsplash.
