Types of architectural styles. Styles in architecture and their features

The architectural style reflects common features in the design of building facades, plans, forms, structures. Architectural styles were formed in certain conditions economic and social development society under the influence of religion, government structure, ideology, architectural traditions and national characteristics, climatic conditions, landscape. The emergence of a new type of architectural style has always been associated with technological progress, changes in ideology and geopolitical structures of society. Let's consider some types of architectural styles that served as the basis for various trends in architecture in different periods of time.

Archaic architecture

Structures erected before the 5th century BC are usually classified as archaic architecture. Stylistically, the buildings of Mesopotamia and Assyria (states of Western Asia) are related to the buildings of Ancient Egypt. They are united by simplicity, monumentality, geometric shapes, the desire for large sizes. There were also differences: Egyptian buildings are characterized by symmetry, while the architecture of Mesopotamia is characterized by asymmetry. Egyptian temple consisted of a suite of rooms and was stretched horizontally; in a Mesopotamian temple, the rooms seem to be attached to each other randomly. In addition, one of the parts of the temple had a vertical orientation (ziggurat (sigguratu - peak) - a temple tower, a characteristic feature of the temples of the Babylonian and Assyrian civilizations).

Antique style

Antiquity, as a type of architectural style, refers to Ancient Greece. Greek buildings were built in the likeness of the “megaron” residential building of the Cretan-Mycenaean era. IN Greek temple the walls were made thick, massive, without windows, and there was a hole in the roof for light. The construction was based on a modular system, rhythm and symmetry.

Megaron means " Big hall» - a rectangular house with a hearth in the middle (early 4th millennium BC)

The ancient architectural style became the basis for the development of the order system. There were directions in the order system: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian. Doric order appeared in the 6th century BC, it was distinguished by its severity and massiveness. The lighter and more elegant Ionic order appeared later and was popular in Asia Minor. The Corinthian order appeared in the 5th century. BC. Colonnades became a hallmark of this type of architectural style. The architectural style, the photo of which is located below, is defined as antique, Doric order.

The Romans, who conquered Greece, adopted the architectural style, enriched it with decoration and introduced an order system into the construction of not only temples, but also palaces.

Roman style

Type of architectural style of the 10th-12th centuries. - received its name “Romanesque” only in the 19th century. thanks to art critics. The structures were created as a structure from simple geometric shapes: cylinders, parallelepipeds, cubes. Castles, temples and monasteries with powerful stone walls with battlements were built in this style. In the 12th century towers with loopholes and galleries appeared at castle-fortresses.

The main buildings of that era were the temple, the fortress and the castle. The buildings of this era were simple geometric shapes: cubes, prisms, cylinders; during their construction, vaulted structures were created, the vaults themselves were made cylindrical, cross-rib, cross. In the early Romanesque architectural style, walls were painted, and by the end of the 11th century. Three-dimensional stone reliefs appeared on the facades.

Classification of architectural styles

style name

style characteristic

image

Canonical

4 thousand BC.

Superhuman dimensions, stability, strict symmetry, “quantitativeness”, geometric shapes, grandeur. The architecture perpetuated the deified power of the pharaoh and the belief in the afterlife.

(pyramids at Giza, ensemble of temples at Karnak)

Classical

8th century BC -

This style was developed in Antiquity: Greece, Rome. Light, slender architecture by Dr. Greece carries in its artistic system a different spirit of heroism and human significance. The main achievement of Greek architects was the creation of the order. Harmony, lightness, simplicity, proportionality to the human scale, practicality, rationalism, solemnity.

(Acropolis of Athens, Roman Colosseum)

Romanesque

Massiveness, heaviness, heaviness, serf character, basic means of expression- stele with narrow openings - cross-bathing system. Thick walls, narrow windows - loopholes in monasteries and castles.

Ancient - Russian

Majestic simplicity, festivity, elegance, decorativeness, multi-headedness.

(Church of St. Sophia in Kyiv, Church of the Intercession on the Nerl,

Dmitrievsky Cathedral in Vladimir)

Renaissance

Symmetry, harmony, balance, geometric correctness of forms. An important achievement was the creation of a new architectural form - the floor. The windows are interpreted as the eyes of the building, the façade as the face of the building; those. the outside expresses the interior architectural space.

(Temple of Santa Maria del Fiore, Palazzo Rucellai, Michelangelo Buonarroti. Dome of St. Peter's Cathedral. Rome )

Baroque

Bizarre, dynamic, restless, richly decorated, sculptural, creating parks, ensembles, buildings richly decorated with stucco, painting, sculpture.

(Ensemble of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Tsarskoye Selo Palace, Hermitage Museum, )

Classicism

"Classius" is an example. The style of absolute monarchies, calm grandeur and noble simplicity, strict rhythm, symmetry, elegance, solemnity. rigor of form, clarity of spatial design, geometric interiors, softness of colors and laconicism of external and internal decoration of buildings

(palace ensemble Versailles , arrows of Vasilyevsky Island, Kazan Cathedral)

Rococo

"Rocaille" - shell. Refinement, mannerism, luxury, whimsical decorativeness, shell-shaped ornament. characterized by a tendency towards asymmetry of compositions, fine detailing of form, a rich and balanced structure of decor in interiors, a combination of bright and pure tones of color with white and gold, a contrast between the severity of the external appearance of buildings and the delicacy of their interior decoration.(Oval Hall of the Soubise Hotel , palace interiors of the Winter Palace, Smolny Cathedral)

Empire style

The style of the empire of the Napoleonic era, dryness, academicism, severity, clarity of lines, cold grandeur. a combination of massive simple geometric shapes with military emblems. passion for construction of various kinds triumphal arches, memorial columns, obelisks. Porticoes become important elements of the decorative decoration of buildings. Bronze casting, painting of lampshades and alcoves are often used in interior decoration.

(Chalgrin. Arch of the Star in Paris , the main headquarters building in St. Petersburg, Leper and Gondoin. Vendôme Column in Paris.)

Modern

Asymmetry, softened streamlined shapes, curving lines of the ornament, external decorativeness. use of new technologies (metal, glass).Stair railings, light fixtures hanging from the ceiling, even door handles- everything was carefully designed in the same style

( (1906, architect. ), Victor Orta House of Tassel (1983),Sytin's house, Mansion of S. Ryabushinsky. F. Shekhtel. Moscow.1902

Modern – late XIX - early XX centuries; characterized by various house decorations, roundings, and departure from regular geometric shapes. Use of large glass areas. Facing surfaces are made of decorative brick, porcelain stoneware, and in some cases - painting (in Moscow architecture - Yaroslavsky station, TSUM, Metropol hotel)

Modern

(constructivism,

organics,

retro)
20th century

The use of new building structures, new building materials, abstraction of geometric shapes, aestheticization of structures.

Constructivism - designing the environment, possibilities new technology, its logical, expedient designs, the aesthetic possibilities of materials such as metal, glass, wood. Constructivists sought to contrast ostentatious luxury with the simplicity and emphasized utilitarianism of new object forms, in which they saw the reification of democracy and new relationships between people. ( Moscow Planetarium, architect. M. Barshcha, M. Sinyavsky; Eiffel Tower

G. Eiffel

France)

"organic architecture" - assert the necessity and pleasure for human eye flexible natural forms, connecting architectural structures with the natural environment. ( Opera House, Jörn Ustzon,

Australia, Sydney)

Retro style - spacious forms, verandas. The exterior decoration of the house is made from modern materials, but stylized as antique. There's a contrast here dark colors and light, broken roofs, valleys, dormer windows, spacious staircases.

"high-tech" ("high-tech") - maximum functionality. No decorative excesses. Active implementation latest technologies into the human environment. Sometimes demonstrative use technical forms– brightly colored open pipes, air ducts, elements of engineering equipment, metal structures and other surroundings of the “age of technology”

The designs are characterized by: rigor and simplicity, straight lines, simple geometric shapes. The decor is calm. The color scheme is dominated by monotony. Lots of metal and glass. Metal-glass multi-tiered galleries are popular( Rainbow Center in Niagara Falls, USA, 1978 )

Educational visual aids and course presentations

“History of Architecture” (disc, posters, slides)

Architectural styles: Baroque

Victorian style: prestige and elegance

Architecture, popular in the 19th century in Foggy Albion and in the colonies, does not lose ground today. Victorian houses have 2-3 floors, asymmetry, a complex, multifaceted roof, an attic, often a round turret, a spacious porch, trimmed with carved wood or metal, white or beige. However, the Victorian style has many variations, depending on the time and place of its penetration into a specific cultural environment.

Gothic in architecture: minted mystery

Architectural styles: Gothic

Dutch style: unpretentious peace

Dutch architectural style

Deconstructivism: not like everyone else

The style of deconstructivism leaves no chance for any of the architectural absolutes. It is introduced into any environment with flashy broken shapes and structures that are difficult for visual perception.
Deconstructivism is not called the direction of architecture, but its negation, however, deconstructivists still have a foothold - constructivism and postmodernism.
Architects deliberately distort the principles and compositional motifs of these styles and end up with a dynamic and individual building project.
Read more about

Deconstructivist architecture

European Style: Popular Versatility

European style in the exterior

Italian architectural style: refined drama

Italian style in the exterior

Country style house: warmth and soulfulness

This style has many faces and is based on local customs: for example, in France “rural” houses are made of stone, and in Canada they are made of logs. In any case, country style involves traditional and natural raw materials. The distinctive touches of such an exterior are rusticity (cladding the external walls with faceted stones), interspersed hand-made items (this could be forged door handles or a horseshoe at the entrance), the color of the facade, reminiscent of shades of clay, wood, sand. The yard is decorated with appropriate archaic elements: bird nests on poles, flower beds on carts, a model of a mill.

Architectural styles: Country

Classic style in the exterior: imitation of the best

The architecture of such a structure is based on the standards of the classics - on ancient canons, on the best examples Italian Renaissance, English Georgianism or Russian architecture. Classicism in the exterior is the symmetry of the building (the main entrance is the axis around which the extensions are located), the presence of columns, triangular pediments, porticos, balustrades, balusters and other accessories of a particular architectural era. Classic-type houses are decorated with pilasters and moldings. The preferred material, of course, is stone, however, nowadays decorative elements are well made from plaster or polyurethane. Classic mansions are often two-story, light in color.

Colonial style in architecture: modest charm

Wealthy immigrants and planters built their households, combining “imported” capital and comfort with local exoticism. This is how the colonial exterior came into being.

Houses in this style are monumental, with two floors. The layout is rectilinear, the entrance is supported by a colonnade. They are built from stone, neutral-colored plaster. The door is massive, wooden. There is almost always a terrace available. The buildings are distinguished by large, panoramic windows that offer views of the garden or wildlife.

Perhaps the most famous subtype of colonial exterior is a bungalow, a one-story or attic mansion, with a spreading veranda along the entire width of the pediment. Its color is traditionally white, reflective, because bungalows were built in the tropics, combining the features of a traditional English cottage, army tents and oriental tents.

Colonial style in the exterior

Loft exterior: fashionable fundamentality

The newest, trendy style. His idea is to transform technological premises, factory floors, garages or hangars into bohemian, luxury apartments.

A loft-style house is a very spacious, tall, distinctly geometric building with a minimal number of internal partitions. An undoubted advantage of such a project is inexpensive building materials: concrete, cement, brick. The loft façade does not require any finishing, nor does it require siding. The roof can be flat or gable, with a metal roof. Be sure to have a large, tall window. A loft home should resemble an industrial building, even if built from scratch.

Modern style house: delightful chic

Minimalism in architecture: freedom and light

German-style houses: fabulous originality

These houses seem to have “jumped out” from the fairy tales of Hoffmann and the Brothers Grimm. They are compact and very neat in appearance. The German style is characterized by economy, productivity, the absence of intricate decoration and the natural color of the facade. Such a dwelling has a square or rectangular shape, the base is covered with stone, and the gable roof is covered with red tiles. A German house is decorated with a balcony or attic, as well as tinted boards - elements of half-timbered wood. An original detail is the windows, separated by lintels and protected by shutters. The door is painted in a color that stands out against the background of the house.

Norwegian style: compact and environmentally friendly

Architecture in the Provence style: rustic romanticism

Why does this style know no boundaries? Because Provence is the embodiment of both brilliance and naivety, and also a symbol of family values. It is believed that the name of the style was given by the French region, but “Provence” means “province”: pastoralism, simplicity, leisurely and measured - these are its main “trump cards”.

In the south of France, houses are mainly built from wild stone, making extensive use of pebbles and slate. In other places they resort to imitation, gypsum panels and slabs. But the roofs are always tiled, often multi-layered, of various levels. The northern wall is necessarily blank. The windows on the lower floor may differ in size from the rest; they are often supplemented with sashes. Natural colors are preferred: milky white, grass, straw. Extensions are welcome - verandas, terraces, kitchens, barns. The door is wooden, weighty, with forged hinges and a viewing window. The yard is covered with paving stones.

Architectural styles: Provence

Ranch style: thriftiness and thoroughness

This exterior is one of the most popular in one-story America. Having absorbed the nuances of other styles, features of bungalows and “prairie buildings,” it finally took shape at the beginning of the last century. Low-rise ranch houses are “spread out” in width, complicated by extensions, plastered and painted light colors. Feature – sliding glass doors. The appearance of a ranch-style house reminds us that farmers began to build such housing: harsh, unpretentious people who value work, but also good rest.

Rococo in architecture: unbridled luxury

Such houses were preferred by French aristocrats. The classical order system on the basis of which they were erected is almost invisible due to the abundant, ornate decor. The walls of the Rococo house are literally drowning in through patterns and lace details - curls, rocailles, cartouches. Playful arches, slender colonnades, graceful cornices and railings add idleness to the premises and a pleasant lightness to life. Artistry and mannerism permeate the Rococo building like the sun through a crystal shard. Traditional colors are soft pastel colors.

Architectural styles: Rococo

Romanesque style in architecture: my home is my fortress

The origins of the exterior lie in the Middle Ages, when citadel castles arose everywhere. Their characteristic features are a primitive silhouette, massiveness and brutality, because protection and shelter were the main task of such abodes.

The stone, of course, reigned. The construction of apses, towers with domes and arched vaults was diversified. The window openings were narrow, like loopholes.

Of course, in the modern version, the Romanesque mansion does not look as trivial and rude as in ancient engravings. The windows have become significantly larger, and the wild stone has been replaced by elegant stylization. But the principle remained unshakable: Romanesque-style mansions should be large, bulky and inaccessible in appearance.

Russian architectural style: toy house

Exterior design in the Russian style is not as monotonous as it might seem. These include houses typical of Slavic wooden architecture, mansions in the style of Russian merchants, and noble estates.

Wood, of course, rules the roost. A dwelling in the Russian genre rarely exceeds two floors, the roof is gable, the windows are small, covered with platbands, and a covered porch is highly desirable. Balconies, staircases, and turrets will give the mansion a resemblance to a fairy-tale hut, and sophisticated carved decoration and an open veranda on figured supports will resemble boyar mansions.

Scandinavian style in the exterior: Nordic character

Clear contours, natural building materials, a minimum of decor, but maximum amenities - houses with such properties are called Scandinavian.

Among the features of this home are glass doors, huge windows (or an entire transparent wall), which is dictated by the lack of sunlight. Scandinavian houses are covered with either white plaster or wooden paneling, which also fulfills an aesthetic mission: doors and windows are edged with dark wood, walls are sheathed with light wood, or vice versa. The roof can be either flat or gable. Scandinavian mansions are “stuffed” with energy-saving technologies and are often equipped with solar panels.

Scandinavian style in the exterior

Mediterranean style house: glamor and bliss

Residences that could only be admired on the warm coast were also included in the design encyclopedia.

Their peculiarity is their light and joyful color (white, cream, pink); flat, tiled roof; half-open verandas covered with greenery; spacious balconies and rotundas; the presence of a swimming pool and, of course, a patio. The building may consist of several parts flowing into each other. Windows and doorways are often horseshoe-shaped. Preference is given to natural stone, ceramics, and wood.

Mediterranean style in the exterior

Modern style in architecture: freedom of choice

Its value lies in democracy. This design accepts any building materials, including the latest ones. The house is distinguished by its simplicity – both externally and in its operation. It does not need decoration or any stylistic tricks. A gable roof, sufficient space and panoramic glazing are perhaps all that is required.

Tudor style: noble heritage

The Tudor house is the material embodiment of truly English character. He is imposing and a little old-fashioned, like a 100% gentleman.

Formed in the 16th century, combining touches of Gothic and Renaissance, Flemish and Italian motifs, the Tudor style still remains in demand.

Its attributes are thick walls, high chimneys, turrets, lancet openings. And, of course, the half-timbered structure is the outer frame. In the old days, such houses were built from stone and wood, but today they use aerated concrete, panels and blocks. Beams, cornices and shutters, as before, are highlighted in a dark color. The main facade almost always contains a bay window, sometimes in the form of a turret. It is impossible not to mention the roofing: Tudor roofs are complex, with long hips and high gables, with small dormers. The entrance is in the form of an arch, lined with stone and decorated with the family coat of arms. The area around the house is decorated with stone sidewalks, paved paths, wrought-iron fences and, of course, an English lawn.

Half-timbered houses: ancient flavor

Glimpses of this style appeared in the 15th century in Germany. Several centuries later, half-timbered wood “captured” the whole of Western Europe. They still turn to him today.

In essence, the half-timbered technique is a frame construction method. Its basis is fastenings made of wooden beams, racks, crossbars, and braces. They were once made of oak, intricately joined together with “secret” notches and wooden pins. The voids between the beams were compacted with clay, pebbles, and straw. The walls were plastered, whitewashed, and the frame was painted brown, cherry or black. It served as an ornament to the façade, dividing it into clear segments. Houses lined with wooden patterns are still called half-timbered.

Architectural styles: Half-timbered

Farmhouse style: maximum air

Farm houses are often one-story, light in color, with unobtrusive decor. A notable feature is a large porch or open veranda, which, if space allows, can stretch along the perimeter of the house. For finishing, either wood or materials that imitate it are chosen. The windows are large, with a good view, the door is often also glass.

Farm style

Finnish style: scent of wood

Another type of wooden exterior. For façade cladding, Finns use timber, clapboard or plank. During construction, walls are lined with insulation, for example, mineral wool. The height is one and a half to two floors, the roof is gable, ceramic tile, there is often a terrace in front of the house, and above it a glazed balcony. The color of the facade ranges from white to wooden shades. The highlight of a Finnish home is, of course, the sauna.

Fusion style: harmony of contradictions

This amazing style sweeps away laws and rules. The architect and designer are free to use any materials, shapes, textures... And even principles. Unlike eclecticism, which interweaves into a whole individual parts similar exteriors, fusion is a daring attempt to combine diametrically opposed things. For example, industrial design (loft) and baroque fragments. Or gothic with ethno. In addition, the style involves the use of a complex color scheme, a variety of decor... And, of course, a subtle artistic flair that will not allow you to slide into architectural cacophony and design heresy.

Architectural styles: Fusion

High-tech in architecture: on the verge of fantasy

These houses are a challenge to tradition and a demonstration of scientific achievements. High-tech real estate is noticeable from afar thanks to wind generators and solar panels. The layout assumes significant home sizes and cubic shapes. The walls are absolutely flat, the structure is smooth, the materials are concrete, glass, metal and plastic. Color scheme – white, black, silver, shades of various metals. Houses are also distinguished by their maximum glass area: often one of the facades is glazed. The terrace may be open, but the central door is also glass and sliding. The roofs are flat, in the form of level platforms, which are easy to adapt for recreation. The facades are equipped with lighting. External engineering communications serve as decorative items.

Czech style: a secluded place

The design of Czech cottages echoes German and pan-European architectural traditions. Czech mansions are distinguished by their regular geometry, squatness, high and multifaceted tiled roofs, and stone foundations. However, instead of tiles, they are sometimes covered with straw, which harmonizes with the rural landscape. Windows and doors have a streamlined, rounded shape.

Czech architectural style

Chalet style houses: reliable protection

It's hard to believe that in the past, the chalet was just a shepherd's house at the foot of the mountains. Cut off from civilization, this shelter had to be resilient, invulnerable, and have the necessary level of comfort. The foundation and first floor were built of stone, the attic was built of logs. The roof of Alpine houses is gable, flat, with significant projections turning into awnings. The main facade faces east, living rooms to the south. The chalet has at least one spacious balcony. The decoration is made of wood carvings.

The chalet in its modern form is not only stone and wood, but also brick and concrete, as well as panoramic windows and a large veranda. A logical addition to such a home would be an alpine slide, coniferous trees, a grill or a barbecue.

Chateau style house: noble nest

Actually, that's what they were called country estates French nobles, consisting of a castle, a park and, often, a winery. The famous Versailles is essentially a chateau.

The style of this exterior is determined by classic proportions, a large number of lancet windows decorated with frames, a multi-pitched roof, elegant gables, wide terraces, spacious balconies with forged, filigree railings and bay windows. The walls can be finished with rusticated stone, brick, or decorated with stucco. The base is usually made of natural stone, and the roof is made of tiles. The chateau-style façade is a proud sign of family nobility.

Architectural styles: Chateau

Swedish style: sweet naturalness

Part of the Scandinavian style, Swedish domestic architecture continues the tradition of dramatic simplicity. The peculiarity of the Swedish cottage is its contrasting color: its walls are painted red, and the corners, window frames and doors are highlighted in white. The buildings are often wooden, with large windows, because sunlight is especially valued in these parts.

Swedish style

Ethnic style: from tower to wigwam

National style is the soul of ethnic style. This could be a house resembling a Russian log house, built using timber and topped with a ridge on the roof. Or a mansion with an oriental “accent” in the form of Arabic ornaments, Persian grilles and tiles. In other words, there are as many cultures and building traditions as there are sources that feed the diverse ethno-exterior.

Japanese style in architecture: laconicism and lightness

Japanese country houses can be seen not only in the Land of the Rising Sun. This is because Japanese style is incredibly organic. Its strengths are clarity, perfection, and unpretentious lines. The materials are stone, glass and wood, the palette is restrained. Sliding doors in such a house are on each side; the central entrance is often complemented by a stepped deck, reminiscent of a porch and bridge. The house can have a covered veranda with a wide view, and an open terrace. The continuation of the Japanese home is an authentic landscape: a mini-pond, several picturesque boulders and a couple of dwarf pine trees will turn even an ordinary home into a philosopher’s refuge.
Read more about

Architectural styles.

Classification of architectural styles

style name

style characteristic

plan

image

Canonical

4 thousand BC.

332 AD

Superhuman dimensions, stability, strict symmetry, “quantitativeness”, geometric shapes, grandeur. The architecture perpetuated the deified power of the pharaoh and the belief in the afterlife.

(pyramids at Giza, ensemble of temples at Karnak)

Classical

8th century BC -

5th century AD

This style was developed in Antiquity: Greece, Rome. Light, slender architecture by Dr. Greece carries in its artistic system a different spirit of heroism and human significance. The main achievement of Greek architects was the creation of the order. Harmony, lightness, simplicity, proportionality to the human scale, practicality, rationalism, solemnity.

(Acropolis of Athens, Roman Colosseum)

Romanesque

11-12 centuries

Massiveness, heaviness, heaviness, serf character, the main means of expression is a stele with narrow openings - a cross-bathing system. Thick walls, narrow windows - loopholes in monasteries and castles. The main element of the composition isdonjon. Around it were located the rest of the buildings, made up of simple geometric shapes - cubes, prisms, cylinders.

(Cathedral ensemble in Pisa,Cathedral in Worms)

Gothic

13th - 14th centuries

The frame becomes the structural basis, and huge openings appear filled with stained glass windows. Arches and portals stretch out and take on a pointed shape. Lightness, delicacy, weightlessness, upward direction towards the sky, towards God.

(Notre Dame Cathedral,cathedral in Reims, V Cologne )

Ancient - Russian

9th - 17th centuries

Majestic simplicity, festivity, elegance, decorativeness, multi-headedness.

(Church of St. Sophia in Kyiv, Church of the Intercession on the Nerl,

Dmitrievsky Cathedral in Vladimir)

Renaissance

13th - 17th centuries

Symmetry, harmony, balance, geometric correctness of forms. An important achievement was the creation of a new architectural form - the floor.The windows are interpreted as the eyes of the building, the façade as the face of the building; those. the outside expresses the interior architectural space.

(Temple of Santa Maria del Fiore, Palazzo Rucellai, Michelangelo Buonarroti. Dome of St. Peter's Cathedral. Rome )

Baroque

17th century

Bizarre, dynamic, restless, richly decorated, sculptural, creating parks, ensembles, buildings richly decorated with stucco, painting, sculpture.

(Ensemble of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Tsarskoye Selo Palace, Hermitage Museum, )

Classicism

17th - 19th centuries

"Classius" is an example. The style of absolute monarchies, calm grandeur and noble simplicity, strict rhythm, symmetry, elegance, solemnity.rigor of form, clarity of spatial design, geometric interiors, softness of colors and laconicism of external and internal decoration of buildings

(palace ensemble of Versailles , arrows of Vasilyevsky Island, Kazan Cathedral)

Rococo

18 century

"Rocaille" - shell. Refinement, mannerism, luxury, whimsical decorativeness, shell-shaped ornament.characterized by a tendency towards asymmetry of compositions, fine detailing of form, a rich and balanced structure of decor in interiors, a combination of bright and pure tones of color with white and gold, a contrast between the severity of the external appearance of buildings and the delicacy of their interior decoration.( Oval Hall of the Soubise Hotel , palace interiors of the Winter Palace, Smolny Cathedral)

Empire style

18 century

The style of the empire of the Napoleonic era, dryness, academicism, severity, clarity of lines, cold grandeur.a combination of massive simple geometric shapes with military emblems. passion for the construction of various kinds of triumphal arches, memorial columns, obelisks. Important elements Porticoes become decorative decoration of buildings. Bronze casting, painting of lampshades and alcoves are often used in interior decoration.

(Chalgrin. Arch of the Star in Paris , the main headquarters building in St. Petersburg, Leper and Gondoin. Vendôme Column in Paris.)

Modern

19th century

Asymmetry, softened streamlined shapes, curving lines of the ornament, external decorativeness.use of new technologies (metal, glass).Stair railings, light fixtures hanging from the ceiling, even door handles- everything was carefully designed in the same style

( (1906, architect. ), Victor OrtaHouse of Tassel (1983),Sytin's house, Mansion of S. Ryabushinsky. F. Shekhtel. Moscow.1902

Modern – late XIX - early XX centuries; characterized by various house decorations, roundings, and departure from regular geometric shapes. Use of large glass areas. Facing surfaces are made of decorative brick, porcelain stoneware, and in some cases - painting (in Moscow architecture -Yaroslavsky station, TSUM, Metropol hotel)

Modern

(constructivism,

organics,

retro)
20th century

The use of new building structures, new building materials, abstraction of geometric shapes, aestheticization of structures.

Constructivism - design of the environment, the possibilities of new technology, its logical, expedient designs, the aesthetic possibilities of materials such as metal, glass, wood. Constructivists sought to contrast ostentatious luxury with the simplicity and emphasized utilitarianism of new object forms, in which they saw the reification of democracy and new relationships between people. (Moscow Planetarium, architect. M. Barshcha, M. Sinyavsky; Eiffel Tower

G. Eiffel

France)

“organic architecture” - to assert the necessity and pleasantness for the human eye of flexible natural forms, the connection of architectural structures with the natural environment. (Opera House, Jörn Ustzon,

Australia, Sydney )

Retro style - spacious forms, verandas. The exterior decoration of the house is made from modern materials, but stylized as antique. There is a contrast of dark colors and light ones, broken roofs, valleys, dormer windows, spacious staircases.

"high-tech" ("high-tech") - maximum functionality. No decorative excesses. Active introduction of new technologies into the human environment. Sometimes demonstrative use of technical forms - brightly colored open pipes, air ducts, elements of engineering equipment, metal structures and other surroundings of the “age of technology”

The designs are characterized by: rigor and simplicity, straight lines, simple geometric shapes. The decor is calm. The color scheme is dominated by monotony. Lots of metal and glass. Metal-glass multi-tiered galleries are popular(Rainbow Center in Niagara Falls, USA, 1978 )

Educational visual aids and course presentations

“History of Architecture” (disc, posters, slides)

March 2nd, 2017 , 03:00 pm

Of course, today there are many books where all historical periods, the entire history of Russian architecture, all styles and trends are described in detail.
But the specifics of the Internet are such that many people want to understand common problems in one short note.
This is exactly the review I offer to the readers of the Architectural Style magazine -

Briefly about the periods and styles of Russian architecture

1. Old Russian architecture
X - XVII centuries
The history of Old Russian architecture goes back seven centuries. Even a simple listing of all periods of development of Old Russian architecture is a huge research work. This path was so complex and diverse.
Architecture of Kyiv and Chernigov, architecture of Novgorod the Great and Pskov, Smolensk and Polotsk. Independent and very bright Vladimir-Suzdal architecture developed in the North-Eastern part of Rus', in the Zalessk land. By the end of the 12th century. In Rus', several architectural trends are emerging, although the general principles were the same throughout Rus'. In the 13th century The Vladimir-Suzdal school was divided into two independent ones, one was built in Suzdal, Nizhny Novgorod and Yuryev-Polsky, the other - in Vladimir, Rostov and Yaroslavl. And finally, the era of the centralized Russian state, which in the 15th - 16th centuries united individual Russian lands around Moscow. The process of unification of Russian lands around Moscow, the formation of a single Russian state, influenced the formation of an all-Russian architectural tradition. The architecture of the 17th century was characterized by complexity and picturesque compositions, diversity and richness of architectural details.
Among the works of Old Russian architecture there are no copies of foreign buildings, no mechanical imitation of the architecture of neighboring countries.

2. “Naryshkinskoe” baroque
End of the 17th century
The first stage of the development of Russian Baroque dates back to the era of the Russian Empire, from the 1680s to the 1700s, called the Moscow, or “Naryshkin” Baroque. A feature of this style (?) is its close connection with pre-existing Russian traditions. Striving for patterns, picturesqueness and elegance, a kind of connecting link between ancient Russian architecture and the new Baroque style.

Church of the Intercession in Fili, Moscow, 1694

3. Style Baroque
1st half of the 18th century
The founding of St. Petersburg gave a powerful impetus to the development of Russian architecture; a new stage in the development of Russian Baroque began - Peter's Baroque. It was an architectural style based on Western models. The largest building of this time is the Peter and Paul Cathedral. And despite the abundance of foreign architects, Russia is beginning to form its own architectural school. The architecture of Peter the Great's time is characterized by simplicity of volumetric constructions, clarity of divisions and restraint of decoration, and a planar interpretation of facades. Later, a new direction developed in Russia - Elizabethan Baroque. Its appearance is most often associated with the name of the outstanding architect Rastrelli. The difference between this style and Peter’s is its close connection with the traditions of the Moscow Baroque. Rastrelli designed majestic palace complexes in St. Petersburg and its environs - the Winter Palace, Catherine Palace, Peterhof. The architect is characterized by the gigantic scale of buildings, the splendor of decorative decoration, and the decoration of facades using gold. The majestic, festive character of Rastrelli’s architecture left its mark on all Russian art mid-18th century century. An original page of Elizabethan baroque is represented by the work of Moscow architects of the mid-18th century - led by D.V. Ukhtomsky and I.F. Michurin. The main idea of ​​Baroque is beauty, solemnity, pomp, exaggerated pathos and theatricality.

The Great Palace in Tsarskoe Selo, 1752-1757, architect. V.V.Rastrelli

4. Style Classicism
2nd half of the XVIII - beginning. XIX century

Classicism is an appeal to the forms of ancient architecture as a standard of harmony, simplicity, rigor, logical clarity and monumentality. The basis of the architectural language of classicism was the order. Classicism is characterized by symmetrical axial compositions and restraint of decorative decoration. Russian classicism is a style of art that arose in Russia under Catherine II, who in a certain way sought to Europeanize Russia. The emergence of a new style was preceded by more than half a century of development of Russian art of the New Age, characterized by the predominance of the Baroque. Since the 60s of the 18th century, Russian architects have been designing and constructing buildings in the style of noble simplicity of classicism.

Pashkov's house in Moscow, 1784-1788. arch. V.I. Bazhenov (?).

5. « National romantic» stage
1780 - 1800
In the second half of the 18th century, along with the leading classical movement, there was a short-lived stage, which was later most often called the “Gothic style.” This is the time of active creativity of V.I. Bazhenov and M.F. Kazakov, and their most famous building is the Tsaritsyn ensemble. Despite Catherine’s instructions, our architects took as their starting point not Gothic, but ancient Russian forms. Tsaritsyn is characterized by an intricate colorful play of white stone details against the background of red brick walls, reminiscent of the details and motifs of Russian architecture of the 17th century. In general, the works of this stage in the classical architectural school are called the time of National Romantic quest.

Palace in Tsaritsyno, in Moscow, 1775 - 1785, architect. V.I.Bazhenov and M.F.Kazakov

6. Style Empire style
1800 - 1840
“Imperial style” Empire is the final stage of classicism, with massive and monumental forms, rich decoration, and elements of military symbols.

Main headquarters in St. Petersburg, 1819-1829, architect. K.I.Rossi

7. Eclecticism
1830 - 1890
A direction in architecture that focuses on the use of any form of the past in any combination in one building. Eclecticism rebelled against academic dogma, which demanded that we follow the “eternal” laws of ancient architecture. Eclecticism in itself cannot be a style, as it is a mixture of stages and styles of past years.
A few words about eclecticism

Assumption Church in St. Petersburg, 1896-1898, architect. G. Kosyakov

8. Style Modern
End of the 19th century - 1917
The style direction is associated with the use of new technical and constructive means, free planning to create distinctly individualized buildings. The term "Modern" defines architecture that sharply rebelled against imitation. The slogan of modernity is modernity and novelty. A system of artistic forms that is in any way related to the order or “styles” of eclecticism does not exist at all in modernity.
The principle of designing a building “from outside to inside”, characteristic of past styles, from the shape of the plan and volume to internal location premises, in modernity the opposite principle is opposed: “from the inside - out”. The shape of the plan and facade is not specified initially; it follows from the features of the internal planning structure.
About Art Nouveau - http://odintsovgrigori.ucoz.ru/index/mod ern/0-255

Ryabushinsky's mansion in Moscow, 1900, architect F.O. Shekhtel

9. Retrospectiveism
1905 - 1917
A very complex direction, a kind of parallel to late modernity. A direction based on the development of the architectural heritage of past eras, from ancient Russian architecture to classicism. The distinction between late modernity and retrospectivism is extremely difficult to draw. Examples of the three main movements in retrospectivism -

9.1 - Neoclassicism
The building of the Kievsky railway station in Moscow is reminiscent of the famous buildings of Russian classicism and empire style. The symmetry of this solemn composition is enlivened by the square clock tower placed on the right corner. With sufficient severity of architectural forms, the decorative decoration of the building is very diverse, with rich “antique” motifs.

Kyiv railway station. 1914-1924, Arch. I.I. Rerberg, V.K. Oltarzhevsky, with the participation of V.G. Shukhov.

9.2 - Neo-Russian style
Architectural researchers expressed the opinion that the neo-Russian style is closer to modernism than to eclecticism, and this differs from “ pseudo-Russian style"in its traditional sense.
The building of the Loan Treasury combines business representativeness with the plasticity of chambers of the 17th century. The shape of the front porch against the background of the diamond rustication of the wall enhances the decorative effect of the building. The decor is dominated by “Naryshkin Baroque” motifs. However, the complete symmetry of the facade violates the “principles of modernism” and gives the building some eclecticism....

Loan treasury in Nastasinsky lane. in Moscow. 1913-1916, Arch. V.A. Pokrovsky and B.M. Nilus

9.3 - Neo-Gothic
The Catholic Cathedral on Malaya Gruzinskaya Street in Moscow is a three-nave cruciform pseudo-basilica. The main volume of the temple was built in 1901-1911, finishing work inside continued until 1917. According to various testimonies, for the architect the prototype of the facade was some European Gothic cathedrals. This Catholic cathedral houses the largest organ in Russia and you can listen to organ music concerts.

Catholic Cathedral on M. Gruzinskaya Street. 1901-1911, Arch. F.O. Bogdanovich-Dvorzhetsky.

Styles......
Place everything on one sheet centuries-old history domestic architecture is impossible.
My task is more specific - to give a general, very schematic idea of ​​how architectural styles changed from the second half of the 17th century until 1917.

And an important clarification about “Styles”:
- In the history of architecture, the very concept "Architectural style" appeared relatively recently, and refers only to periods from the 18th century, from the Baroque style. Sometimes the “Naryshkinskoye” baroque of the second half of the 17th century is also classified as a style.
- TO Old Russian architecture the concept of “Style” is generally inapplicable, and an expression like “church in the Novgorod style” refers to the colloquial genre, and nothing more!
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Literature:
- History of Russian architecture. - M.: Academy of Architecture of the USSR, Institute of History and Theory of Architecture, 1956.
- E.I. Kirichenko. Russian architecture of the 1830s-1910s. - M.: Art, 1982.

Appearance buildings have changed significantly over many centuries due to technological progress, the needs of society and changing fashion. Here are the signs by which you can learn to distinguish main types of architectural styles.

Architectural styles - new and old

The appearance of a building is not always a reliable indicator of its age: architectural styles tend to be revived. It is of interest to identify the styles that influenced the architecture of buildings of later times. Thus, in the architecture of the White House in Washington, borrowings from the era of classicism are visible, and the Parliament buildings in London are the personification of Gothic fantasies.

Antiquity and Renaissance - architectural styles

Characteristic feature The architecture of Ancient Greece and Rome used a system of orders, most recognizable by the style of the columns (see picture below). During the Renaissance, architecture, like all arts, turned to the principles of ancient Greece and Rome. Interest in classical proportions was revived, and the five orders came back into practice. Ancient ideas were embodied in new elements based on more advanced technologies, such as a high dome (unknown to the ancient Greeks). Architects, notably Andrea Palladio (1508-1580), borrowed the idea ancient temple with columns for decorating building facades. Both of these ideas were used by Christopher Wren (1632-1723) in the construction of St. Peter's Cathedral in London.

The most striking features of medieval architecture are manifested in the design of windows. For example, if a cathedral has small, rounded windows at the top, pierced in thick walls - in continuation of the Roman traditions - then it is built in the Romanesque style. These windows are the first attempt to let more light into massive buildings without compromising their structural integrity.

The Romanesque style smoothly transitions into Gothic. In early Gothic, the windows have a lancet shape, reminiscent of the bow of a ship. Later, this design was improved: the size of the windows increased, they were decorated with openwork carvings, similar to exquisite lace woven from stone and glass. The same airy fragility can be found in other elements of buildings in the mature Gothic style: high roofs and graceful buttresses, like protruding ribs, as if only one frame remained of the building.

The Gothic style again became popular in the 18th-19th centuries, its influence is especially evident in the architecture of public buildings, in particular museums and churches. This so-called neo-Gothic style originated in Great Britain and then spread throughout the world.

Baroque and Rococo

The simple classical lines of the Renaissance gradually gave way to the more bombastic and decorative style of the Baroque, culminating in the frivolous and frivolous Rococo style. The first Baroque buildings were commissioned by the Catholic Church at the end of the 16th century in Italy. Church and secular buildings were built in this style, including Royal Palace Versailles near Paris and the Royal Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. A magnificent example The late Baroque is the Protestant church of the Frauenkirche in Dresden, Germany (photo below). It was built in 1726, destroyed by bombing in 1945, and restored and reopened in 2005.

Art Nouveau (Art Nouveau)

This style originated in architecture at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. The most notable feature is the fascination with stylized plant forms both outside and inside buildings: wrought iron balconies in the form of tangled stems of ivy, undulating staircases and balustrades curving like roots or branches with leaves, walls with curves as if growing from the ground, and not built according to strict drawings. The Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi (1852-1926) decorated Barcelona with similar buildings, including the unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral.

Art Deco

The Art Deco style emerged in the early 20s of the 20th century. His distinctive features- functional, streamlined mechanical forms and strictly geometric patterns (remember the Empire State Building in New York). Art Deco architecture is characterized by the use of overtly industrial materials, such as gleaming chrome, smooth, shiny enamel and extensive glass surfaces.

So what is it style? We often talk about lifestyle, music styles, speech styles and communication styles. What is architectural style? First of all, let's give a comprehensive definition. Style is a set of stable artistic forms. Style is a derivative of the era. There are so many eras and so many styles.

Style can completely unite various items: houses, furniture, dishes, paintings and even clothes. First of all, it is the style that dictates their shapes, outlines, colors, and motifs. In other words, style makes things what they are.

Style is a very important factor, but it’s not so much the style that will give your home its individual, unique features, but rather the architect’s. And, of course, not without your participation. Do you like not one, but several styles and you don’t know which one to choose or take as a basis? No problem. A good architect will be able to show you how your home idea can be realized in each of them.

photo: © www.site, Lviv, St. Elizabeth's Cathedral, cathedral, church, Catholicism, Catholic cathedral, Gothic cathedral, Gothic

To make your conversations with architects easier, we suggest you familiarize yourself with the main styles that humanity has developed throughout history that you can now use. We will talk about styles that in one way or another influenced modern architecture and are still reflected in it.

The emergence of architectural styles

The origins of architectural styles lie in humanity’s irresistible desire for beauty. The formation of architectural styles has always been strongly influenced by religious views, style of thinking and government, national characteristics and the environment, nature. But first of all, the development of architecture as an artistic phenomenon was facilitated by... the growth of the technical capabilities of mankind. As new technologies appeared, the prerequisites for a new architectural style arose, and with it the appearance of temples, public buildings and private houses changed. But, as a rule, the new style was not an absolute negation of the past; it inherited some of its features, while at the same time giving rise to forms of art that had never existed before. Only in the recent history of mankind does a number of architectural styles arise that were a complete negation of the previous millennium artistic heritage, old rules and methods of architecture.

Antiquity

However, only the Greeks were destined to play decisive role in the development of architectural styles of subsequent eras. Only their legacy has remained over the centuries and evolved right up to the present day. Sometimes it was forgotten, sometimes it was decisively abandoned, but again and again it rose from oblivion. What was it that attracted and attracted Greek art so much? Grace and nobility of forms, thoughtfulness and refinement of all details, balance and calm grandeur. And at the same time – constructive simplicity.

The Greeks, who gave the world the beginning of many sciences, were the first to develop a coherent theory of architecture. They introduced into practice the law of symmetry, which they never violated. Subsequently, in Europe it will become the unshakable foundation of classicism

Attractive power Greek culture was such that Rome, having conquered Athens, itself found itself in the position of being conquered. But in architecture, the Romans do not copy the Greeks, although they imitate them. And how Greek were fine artists, so the Romans became practical builders. They create architecture, which, with its scope and colossal scale, was a manifestation of the power of their empire, its symbol.

Rome spreads its culture among the peoples it conquered, regardless of their national characteristics. But empires collapse, and what they built becomes a monument and an example to follow. Rome fell under the blows of the barbarians, Byzantium became its heir... An entire era ended - the era of antiquity. But ancient art, many centuries later, still has to be resurrected in the Renaissance - in order to forever remain in the history and practice of mankind. You can still see the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian style on many buildings today, and not only in Europe. If you are attracted by antiquity and classicism, transfer them to your own house.

Gothic

Now let's step with you into the next period of European history - the Middle Ages. Many people see it as something dark and scary. But it was he who gave the world an amazing style - Gothic.

However, Gothic, from the point of view of modern art criticism, is the only European style that has a completely unique system of forms, a new understanding of the organization of space and volumetric composition. There is not a drop of imitation of anyone or anything in it - unlike the art of the Renaissance, which is nothing more than a return to antiquity. Gothic developed as a religious art, Christian in spirit and theme. It was correlated with eternity, with higher, irrational forces. The cathedral occupied a special place in Gothic art - an example of a special synthesis of architecture, sculpture, painting (stained glass) and music. The vertical and dynamic thrust of its towers and vaults, the rows of slender pillars created the impression of uncontrollable upward movement, which was enhanced by the powerful takeoff of pointed pointed arches.

The interior of the cathedral was illuminated by the multi-colored radiance of stained glass windows, which created a special, mysterious and at the same time unusually joyful atmosphere. All this had a strong emotional impact on a person, calling on him to strive for the highest and most beautiful. (see section Gothic in paintings)

Baroque

Now let's turn to the following (after the Renaissance of antiquity) bright style, which left a tangible mark on the history of mankind - Baroque. Intricate expressiveness and external effectiveness ensured Baroque dominance over other styles European culture for more than a century - from the end of the 16th century. until the middle of the 18th century. This style is characterized by luxury, pomp, decorativeness, a desire for grandeur and splendor, that is, everything that makes a strong impression on a person, amazes his imagination.

In the architecture of facades, horizontal straight lines almost disappear, and softly curved, smooth lines appear. The buildings appear to be cast from one giant piece of stone, sculpted rather than built. The recesses gracefully flow into the protrusions and create the impression of one continuous, undulating and very plastic mass. The effect is enhanced by the abundance of decorative elements made with great imagination and ingenuity. All this becomes amazingly picturesque and dynamic and seems to flow into the surrounding space.

The Baroque buildings that we can see today are ancient palaces, which have mostly become museums. Nowadays almost no one builds anywhere in the Baroque style. But if you like this style, if you want to imitate the aristocracy of past centuries, and if you live a measured life, which is alien to time pressure, then baroque can be yours good friend. Your home will be a curiosity and will undoubtedly amaze both its visitors and passers-by. (see section Baroque in paintings)

Classicism

Time passed, and gradually humanity became tired of the Baroque. After a century of pomp and pretentiousness, the need arose for something more restrained and simple. Baroque was replaced by classicism, which in the second half XVIII century already completely dominated. Science and industry developed rapidly. Strong empires were formed in Europe. Order, severity, sense of proportion, balance of classicism are more suitable in public affairs and are better absorbed by all layers of society than the preaching of sensuality and unbridled passions of the Baroque.

The architecture of classicism as a whole is characterized by a reasonable logic of planning and rational geometry of the volumetric form. Classicism turns to the heritage of ancient architecture, creatively comprehends and applies its laws, especially the law of symmetry. However, the best architects of classicism quote rather than copy antiquity.

Over time, classicism degenerates into academic art, begins to dominate not only the architect, but also the client. Classicism is gradually transforming into the Empire style, which became the final phase of its existence. The bulkiness and ponderous forms of the Empire style, as well as the emergence of new trends in architecture, ultimately led to the fact that classicism came down from its pedestal. But it will return in the second half of the 20th century, will be creatively rethought and, having been included in modern art, will again become desirable for a considerable part of humanity. (see section Classicism)

Empire style

Empire style dominated architecture (and art in general) during the first three decades of the 19th century. He was the last stage evolution of classicism in European history. Under the influence of the imperial spirit, classicism changed the graceful simplicity of forms to monumental expressiveness.

Just like classicism, the Empire style is guided by examples of ancient art. But it absorbs only some of its features, characteristic of the imperial ambitions of Rome, which needed clear illustrations of its power. The main elements of the Empire style: a monument, massive porticoes, military emblems in the design of facades and interiors: military armor, laurel wreaths, eagles. Reflecting the Egyptian campaigns of Napoleon and the discovery of the ancient culture of the Egyptians, the Empire style includes in its arsenal motifs consonant with it: massive geometric volumes, Egyptian ornament, stylized sphinxes.

Empire style covers more than just architecture. This style is used for painting ceilings and walls, dishes, furniture and other interior items. (see Empire section)

Romanticism

In parallel with the Empire style, romanticism existed and developed in the 19th century. He also had a tremendous influence on the development of modern architecture. This style is a negation of the grandiose totalitarian Empire style. Romanticism poeticizes folk architecture as well as the art forms of earlier times. It carries the charm of hoary antiquity, pastoral idyll, spicy exoticism.

Romanticism is close in spirit to the now well-known country style, with its praise of folk life, artificial chests, wicker furniture and other lovely antiquities with an environmental touch.

But, perhaps, most of all, romanticism - that real, historically reliable romanticism - manifested itself in the creation of a special kind of landscape gardening ensembles. Characteristic of it is the disappearance of the border between nature and the artificial, planted, designed park. The park contains artificial ponds, waterfalls, and grottoes, which create the impression of natural ones that have existed here since time immemorial. Romanticism has always been characterized by a variety of forms and creative freedom. Naturally, this was an adequate response to the harsh monotony of the Empire style.

Modern

Since the middle of the 19th century, new trends in architecture have been observed. It becomes more independent from generally accepted norms and rules, from academicism with its rigid principle of building only this way and no other way. This phenomenon became possible due to the fact that many wealthy people appeared in society. They were not associated with high aristocratic society, with its mannerisms and stereotypes. They ordered houses in the most incredible, often difficult to describe styles. It was a protest against the aristocracy.

Art Nouveau gave birth to a new principle of building design - from the inside out, which became fundamental in all architecture of the 20th century. From now on, the main criterion becomes benefit. It is rational functionality that now determines the space-planning solutions of buildings. First of all, a house should be comfortable for a person, consistent with his lifestyle, hobbies, work, and leisure.

Early modernism was an almost absolute rejection of many, if not all, classical principles of building construction. A characteristic feature of early modernism is the rejection of straight lines and angles in favor of a more natural, smooth movement curved lines. This style gives very durable and massive objects the appearance of fragility and airy lightness.

Modern architecture

Functionalism

The first in the ranks of modern architectural movements must be placed functionalism(in Soviet Russia it had a different name - constructivism). It arose in the early 20s and attracted architects from many countries around the world. They decided to implement the following principle: the aesthetic qualities of art should be entirely subordinated to benefits for humans.

Functionalism spread like Art Nouveau throughout objective world- for furniture, clothes and even book graphics. He declared the contemporary state of architecture to be a fatal disease and denied any creative heritage of past eras. However, his goals were noble: to improve the health of cities and improve people's lives, using the achievements of scientific and technological progress. Functionalism is democratic, does not require large material costs and allows you to create “more living space for the same money.”

Functionalism places humans at the center of the design process. However, not a specific person, but a person in general, as a kind of biological and social being. The functional component of buildings should primarily be determined by the physiological and social needs of humans. Architects of this direction design houses in such a way as to provide people with the necessary conditions for a comfortable stay (or work).

The aesthetic postulates of functionalism are extreme simplification of forms, refusal of decoration and the desire for minimal surface treatment. Functionalism is also very reserved about the introduction of color into architecture.

Functionalism is a movement to minimize literally everything that surrounds a person - from facades to interiors and clothing models. Adherents of functionalism were a kind of romantics - simplicity, usefulness and freedom from the heritage of the past. But, alas, rejecting the mandatory standards of classical architectural forms, functionalism comes to the creation of its own very uniform artistic form. And a prescription for this form is offered (or rather even imposed) in all cases, regardless of the diagnosis. The circle closed, and the functionalists found themselves in the same trap from which they had first escaped.

Brutalism and Hi-Tech

In the 50s, another direction of modern architecture arose in England - brutalism (from the English "brutal" - rough). In their works, brutalists strive to expose the structures from which the building is built, to maximize the exposure of deliberately simple, crude architectural masses.

Very common style last decades XX century became high-tech. This is a high-tech style, a kind of opposite of brutalism. Brutalism can be quite accurately called low-tech, a stylization of low technology. In contrast, high-tech is extremely neat, sophisticated and sophisticated. It is primarily associated with an abundance of glass combined with metal structures. IN architectural composition High-tech buildings actively include elements of their engineering equipment: air ducts, pipelines, ventilation shafts.

The appearance of a high-tech building takes on a “technotronic” look through the use of various kinds of accessories. The favorite metal of this style is aluminum. In interior design it is often used in combination with wood. (See section. High-tech in painting And High-tech, minimalism and techno in the interior)

interior in Eclectic style, photo: © www.site

Postmodernism

Today, the architectural environment is dominated by a pluralism of ideas and opinions. Not a single direction of architecture can be called a priority; not a single concept is placed on a pedestal as true. The development of such views was facilitated by the postmodernism movement. His philosophy is based on the principle that orientation towards the artistic absolute provokes the reproduction of totalitarian consciousness in humans and totalitarian structures in society and therefore cannot be successfully used.

Architectural postmodernism revives the historical principles of constructing the composition of buildings (symmetry, perspective, proportionality), uses elements of all styles, applying the principles of high eclecticism. In addition, postmodernism freely handles almost any type of decor. Copying as such is simply excluded here. Several styles can be brought together and interpenetrate each other, forming amazing and unique buildings.

In the architecture of the twentieth century, many other trends, movements and schools also emerged and disappeared. Modernism, international style, historicism, structuralism... At the same time, not all modern trends have a tangible impact on the design and appearance of private houses. And there is another reason why the new architecture is not very widespread: the customer very often turns out to be unprepared to perceive certain avant-garde ideas. It turns out that modern architecture- for all its wonderful simplicity - it turns out to be elitist, sometimes to the extreme. As they say, class is not mass. However, if you wanted to build a house in the style of brutalism or hi-tech, then do you really need to deny yourself this, looking at your neighbors or friends who prefer something more traditional? (see section architecture in painting)

Completion of the plan

If you have not yet decided which direction in architecture to give preference to, then you have at your disposal many books, magazines, catalogues, hundreds and even thousands of photographs that can help you find the right artistic direction. Look into illustrated albums on architecture. The choice of style does not mean that your house should become a copy of one of the buildings of the ancient era or the past 20th century. It will just be a quotation of this or that style, its modern and personalized refraction. If you find it difficult to define and choose an architectural style, then at least find those houses that you simply like. Bookmark the photos you like. Let there be many of them. Take them with you to your meeting with the architect. This will prove to be a good conversation starter.

As a result of painstaking and fascinating reflection on the functional and artistic side of your future home, you must formulate a task for the architect. The more details and details of your plan you convey to the architect, the better, more accurately and faster he will be able to implement it. Any architect will be very glad that you came ideologically prepared and not empty-handed. You may even be able to achieve better results for yourself. financial conditions– due to the fact that you speak the same language, the architect will spend less time completing your project.