Throughout history, architecture has stood as a representation of society, reflecting the values, successes, and eventual downfall of civilizations over time. From the monumental structures to the residences and buildings that make up the fabric of a city, we can learn a lot about who the people were who inhabited them long before our time. By studying the built environment of the past, combined with modern-day research on psychology and the environment, we’re coming to understand the effects of architecture on people in entirely new ways, which begs the question: Just how does architecture impact society?
The Importance of Architecture
At its roots, architecture exists to create the physical environment in which people live, but architecture is more than just the built environment, it’s also a part of our culture. It stands as a representation of how we see ourselves, as well as how we see the world.
While the concept of shelter is a fairly simple thing, the style of buildings was originally shaped by the climate of a particular location, what materials were readily available, as well as the values of the society building them. As the world became more and more connected, the styles evolved, but even in modern construction, there is still an importance in honoring the cultural nuances in the built environment.
There’s also the understanding that architecture is a discipline within itself, and one could argue that it’s equally important for architects to continue to push the boundaries of buildings in new ways, for the pure pursuit of the craft.
More Than Just a Building
Architecture not only affects society on a high level but also on a more personal level, it can have a profound impact on its occupants. Everything from the layout of the space to the material finishes can contribute towards occupant health, mood, and productivity. It’s been shown that people who work in well-designed spaces take less sick leave, are more focused, and generally contribute more to their company.
Sterile, concrete landscapes and unimaginative buildings cause higher levels of stress. Designing buildings, as well as cities, to combat this, whether it be beautiful, awe-inspiring architecture, or simply a mindful connection to nature, helps humans to feel more relaxed, happy and engaged.
Well-designed architecture and the connection individuals have to it is not something that’s easily quantified. However, we all know the feeling of walking into a space that just feels right. It’s not only functional but resonates with you on a different, subconscious level. While designing for function is certainly crucial, it’s important to tap into that emotional connection as well, as they both speak to the sense of experiencing architecture. It’s not just an intellectual understanding, but a connection between the user and the space itself in an emotional way.
Reflection and Transmission
Architecture as a matter of human existence speaks of the culture in each society intertwining closely with constructional, ancient, administrative, economic, and communal features of society. It’s hard to deny that architecture influences society’s nature and culture. Ancient Egyptian architecture varies from Greek architecture, which varies from Indian architecture. Thus throughout history, architecture has remained one of the most essential and vital reflections of culture.
As humans, we live with the wisdom that our forefathers have passed down to us. We’ve gained it through experiences, education, and knowledge. Although we may use language to communicate and deep understanding to interchange knowledge, but only by looking at the history of language, the form, and roots of information can we interpret and grasp their role as cultural aspects. And architecture is one of the most significant mediums for transmitting memories, learnings, ideas, thoughts, beliefs, and ways of life, all of which contribute to the shaping of our current world.
Shaping our Lives
We as humans determine the essence of architecture, which varies from one community to the next; nonetheless, we are impacted by what our hands create. Our psychological state, nature, and conduct are all shaped and influenced by architecture.
Architectural theories are being applied in the design of restaurants, gardens, and stores, as their layout has an impact on customer psychology. When developing structures, even the emotional impact of architecture is being considered to incorporate the most practical strategies, colours, and construction materials. From the tiniest stores on the roadside to the world’s tallest structures, all structures aim to attain architecture’s holy responsibility: to shape people’s lives and direct society to a better environment, thus, shaping our lives, our cities, and our societies.
