An Essay on Style
By Alex Sabo*
Building styles are primarily determined by context. Since buildings should harmonize with their surroundings, the question of style is already determined for most places. For new developments, architects can express a new style. A 21st century style should represent modern sensibilities, adjusted to climate, and with certain characteristics.
Simple materials: Materials can be natural or synthetic as long they are simple. Brick veneers should wrap around the building to look more solid. Mixing materials should have some utilitarian or ornamental purpose.
Romanesque forms: Simple forms that are easy to site, easy to modify, and easy to harmonize with. Minimize any unnecessary breaks in the geometry, which adds costs and visual confusion.
Artistic colors: Colors can be neutral or vibrant depending on the context, but not dull.
Native plants: Plants add natural beauty, and they connect the building to the place. Plants should be local and easy to maintain.
Large windows: Window size and shape can vary as long as it works with the composition, and it is pleasant from the interior.
Common Elements: Buildings should be recognizable according to common elements such as windows, doors, walls, and chimneys. There should be minimal variation, except to distinguish between elements.
*PTG 355, Syracuse University, Fall 2013
Examples
About
The project began as an assignment to collect and categorize images of modern buildings. I tried to find contemporary buildings that look natural (not too minimalist, not too quirky, and not too standardized). The photos are not mine unless otherwise noted.