When you look at the buildings around you, it’s very likely you perceive their size, or that they are aesthetically pleasing or unattractive or even that they have a sense of space and match their surroundings. However, there’s a whole lot of factors than might have influenced how that building looks like right now.
You see, just like there are various art styles in the world, there are many different styles of architecture. Some are more popular than others, but every one of them just as important as the rest.
These styles are what define how the building is going to look like once it’s finished, and it’s what architects get inspiration from to define how their work of art is going to look like.
Of course, some architects tend to mix these styles to create something new and unique, and they get to see a glimpse of their final work through rendering, so they actually KNOW how everything is going to turn out.
That being said, whether you’re a 3D artist that’s looking for some inspiration to create a new building, or you’re an architect who needs a deeper vision of these styles, let’s take a look at some of the different architectural styles there are.
Types of styles of architecture
Throughout history, people have used architecture as a way to express their culture and be creative. So much so, that there are specific styles of architecture that are directly related to famous cultures.
So, we’re going to divide this list in two main parts, one that’s going to be focused on styles of architecture defined by cultures, and the other one that’s going to take a look at the different styles of architecture from a periodic time point of view. This list is just a small cross-section of the styles and only touches the surface of this topic.
#1: Ancient Egyptian architecture
Egyptians were probably ahead of their time when it comes to architecture, and set up an incredible architectural sense in such early times. Just take a look at the iconic pyramids of Giza, and you’ll know what we are talking about.
However, the great pyramids aren’t the only piece of architecture that’s worth mentioning about the Egyptians. They were also pioneers in creating complex temples based on aesthetic and functionality that managed to survive millions of years.
The ancient Egyptian architecture stands out for using incredibly advance engineering systems for their time period, being complex and aesthetically pleasing.
#2: Greek and Roman Architecture
Egyptians weren’t the only ones with a great sense of architecture, the Greek and later Roman civilizations also created and designed extremely intricate buildings with a very strict order and sense of style. Their whole architectural style is so recognizable it’s still being used as inspiration today. Western civilization considers them “Classical.”
They even designed a column system that’s still being used in today’s architectural designs. They also introduced the concept of proportion and harmony, which is why their architectural buildings tend to be so open and aesthetically pleasing.
Styles of architecture through time
Now that we have discussed the different types of architecture based on a cultural point of view, let’s talk about the styles of architecture through time and take a look at the styles that still rule today’s architectural world.
#1: Victorian
This is one of those classic architectural styles everyone has seen and can easily recognize. The Victorian style is known for getting inspiration from the gothic and Tudor style, often being very dark and ‘fantasy like’.
Victorian architectural buildings are known for having an almost dollhouse like effect, having lots of windows and having a lot of asymmetrical shapes in its construction. It’s also important to mention this style uses a very dark color palette, and Victorian Houses are often painted in colors such as maroon, dark red and black.
#2: Tudor style
This particular style was born in the medieval period in England, and it’s still well and alive today. As a matter of fact, many English and European colonies around the world still build their houses based in this style.
You’ll recognize any Tudor-style house due to their key features such as thatched roofs, big diamond shaped like windows, chimneys and very elaborate doorways.
If you’re not familiar with the Tudor architectural style, don’t worry. If you ever see a house that looks like a cottage, has white exterior upper sections, the chimney can be seen from the outside and big windows with black window shelves, it’s likely you’re seeing a Tudor house.
#3: The Renaissance style
This must be one of the most romantic styles of architecture. It is known for an appreciation of harmony, symmetry, regularity of parts and proportion. The Renaissance is known as the ‘rebirth’ of art and architecture.
The renaissance style was born back in the 15th century, in Italy, and you can easily spot it due to their unique characteristics such as big square buildings full of domes and arches, columns and huge courtyards.
#4: The Neo-Classical style
Neo-classical architecture in it’s broadest sense is a style imitating or inspired by Greek and Roman classical architecture. If you are a purest or art historian, you would be referring to a movement that began in the mid-18th century.
This pure form is derived from architecture from classical antiquity and adhered to the Vitruvian principles and the work of Italian architect Andrea Palladio. However, the average person typically uses the broader definition.
#5: Modern style
Modernist architecture is typically clean and simple with a logical organization and grid system. The movement originated from the industrial revolution and the mass production of materials and structural elements.
Stereotypical modern building is a white box with lots of glass and minimalist style and color palette. As the famous modern architect, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe has said, “Less is More!”
As you can see, there’s one style of architecture for anyone. Whether you like small and constructed of natural materials or incredibly futuristic works of art, we assure you, you’ll find one that just clicks with your style. This topic deserves a lot more attention, but for now perhaps it has enticed you to investigate on your own.
Russell Thomas is the Founder and Creative Director at 3DAllusions Studio a subsidiary of 3DAllusions LLC which includes sites such as 3DAllusions and MrMaterials which are resources for the CG artist, helping them hone their craft.