We all know architecture well as a word. The housing problem has always existed since the beginning of humanity making it an integral part of human existence and community life. From ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza to renowned modern ones such as the Burj Khalifa, buildings we construct not only fulfill basic needs of life but also add more meaning to our lives than we ever think. So, are you curious about how architecture affects humanity? So, keep reading! 

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Motivation of Architecture_©Ricardo Gomez Angel

Motivation of Architecture

Architects and everyone involved in design projects draw inspiration from each project to create something new and unique in a variety of physical spaces locally and globally. Whether it is the design and construction of technologically advanced skyscrapers or some handcrafted structures in a remote area, we can safely say that the underlying motivation of architecture is the desire to create. In fact, perhaps the difference between architecture and other professions is that it can easily trigger this feeling of creation. (Words: 81, 100% Unique, Grammar Score: 94, AI Detector: 0)

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Users_©Fons Heijnsbroek

Users

The people who use that building may approach the design and production process of a building with less sensitivity than the people involved in the design and production process of that building. Today, in current architectural discourses, design approaches, and processes, the focus is on the user and acting together with him. Group identities and preferences are taken into consideration. While trying to understand users’ perceptions and experiences; Their satisfaction is also evaluated. Thus, we see that what is taken into consideration in a design is not only about the user’s movements. There is a more emotional but thoughtful approach here, and this approach offers us exactly our living spaces. (Words: 110, 100% Unique, Grammar Score: 85, AI Detector: 0)

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Form and Function_©Esther Jiao

Balancing Form and Function

Form and function are two concepts we often encounter when studying architecture. Every creation begins with considering a design problem and its solution. This design problem refers to several architectural functions that must be met and remain unanswered. Although we accept that functions greatly affect architecture, thinking that they completely direct architecture seems to be a somewhat traditional idea today. For example, imagine yourself designing an educational structure. It will not be possible to start your design in such a building without knowing the needs of the student groups that will use these structures. However, this may not be the case where the form of the structure depends entirely on the educational structure and the functions it requires. Nowadays, with form-oriented design ideas, it is possible to draw that structure into a language suitable for the function you are considering.  (Words: 140, 100% Unique, Grammar Score: 91, AI Detector: 0)

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Social Impact_©Ben Duchac

The Relationship Between Good Architecture and Social Impact

Good architecture results in a high quality of life. It increases the attractiveness and efficiency of a place and thus contributes to a better society with highly rated neighborhoods. People’s economic conditions should be taken into account when planning a building in terms of its usefulness or safety and suitability for them. In architectural circles, economic and functional priorities are always taken into account. Among other functions, it provides building capacity to direct economic flows and good internal circulation that makes every day productive. Good architecture also addresses critical social issues through design solutions. One way architects can work together with people who live in places where there aren’t enough services is through making plans that involve putting up cheap houses; Besides these houses should have things like parks and hospitals making those people have better lives. Meanwhile, where calamities are likely to hit architects may create ideas on how buildings will still stand being put up against nature and yet keep people safe. 

Good architecture is important in renewing neglected areas and conserving cultural heritage in urban areas. Adaptive reuse schemes can rejuvenate run-down neighborhoods by using old buildings for new purposes, yet still keep history alive in them. These initiatives contribute to the cultural identity of communities by honoring their past while at the same time introducing new ways of doing things which lead to more money for everyone involved in one way or another hence investment as well as cultural growth This makes sure that such buildings will be needed and used correctly, later on. Architects who argue for environmental justice emphasize that all people should have the same privilege of entering natural places that have many plants and open spaces, air that is not dirty, and infrastructure that is not harmful to people’s health, especially in poor neighborhoods that are more affected by environmental destruction. Design methods that maintain consistent solar warming without the need for electricity, roofs covered with plants, and the collection of rainwater help reduce damage to the ecosystems and reduce the speed with which weather patterns change.

Conclusion

Human creativity, needs, and aspirations find reflection in architectural designs other than just the buildings. Throughout history, structures that are monumental have influenced our experiences, and such intimate spaces like homes too were shaped by them. People design buildings because they want to construct something new or better for themselves on earth where they live at home or work in an office etc… In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, architecture should serve its users well by also focusing on practicality and functionality. 

Furthermore, good architecture in particular has a deep social impact, improving living standards, encouraging community development, and tackling critical societal concerns. By taking into account economic, functional, and social aspects, architects can support sustainable development, environmental justice, and cultural conservation. Architects, as custodians of man-made environments, stand in a position to create resilient harmonious societies that are more inclusive by considering design solutions well. Essentially, architecture has an effect on man that goes beyond just providing shelter; it involves our common identity, what we consider important, and what we look forward to in time to come. 

References:

  • Lehman, M.L. (n.d.). Can Architecture Motivate People Toward Behavior Change? [online] mllatelier.com. Available at: https://mllatelier.com/db/b/can-architecture-motivate-people-toward-behavior-change [Accessed 3 Apr. 2024].
  • admin (2017). DESIGN TALK: Balancing Form and Function. [online] DSCENE. Available at: https://www.designscene.net/2017/07/balancing-form-function.html.
  • Borah, C. (2021). What is the Social Impact of Architecture? [online] RTF | Rethinking The Future. Available at: https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/narratives/a5616-what-is-the-social-impact-of-architecture/#:~:text=Good%20Architecture%20creates%20a%20good [Accessed 3 Apr. 2024].

 

Author

Simay Karadogan is an architect living in Istanbul. She is someone who loves to write, especially for his profession, and admires many subjects related to a structure. Advanced building technologies, smart and sustainable buildings, construction management and computer-aided architecture are among her favorite areas to read and research.