Basic human needs include food, clothing, and shelter. Thus, since the dawn of time, humans have been building shelters to meet these needs. Over time, the field of architecture developed to where specialists spent their entire lives dedicated to building magnificent buildings not only for shelter, but also for others to enjoy. Neenan Archistruction® is a Fort Collins based architectural design and construction firm that specializes in commercial, education, government, and healthcare building projects. Below, we’ll take a very brief look at the history of architecture. Contact us today!
While architecture was definitely in existence before the ancient Egyptians, because we have so many writings and buildings from the ancient Egyptians, they are considered one of the forerunners of architecture. The Egyptians single-handedly made the pyramid synonymous with their culture due to its unique shape. However, it’s the fact that they were so amazingly constructed that they are remembered today.
Almost instantly when you speak about the history of architecture, the Greeks and the Romans emerge as early leaders. With their temples that boasted huge columns and canopies, their public squares, the Colosseum, and their bathhouses, the Greeks and the Romans showed what was possible with building materials, so much so that their period is now referred to as the Classical period of architecture.
The Byzantine and Ottoman Empires perfected the dome and developed the famous minarets that are now synonymous with mosques all around the world. Their beautiful buildings, such as the Hagia Sophia, draw millions of visitors every year to marvel at these ancient architectural marvels. They also introduced the design element of mosaics, which is art from glass.
When you speak of medieval Europe, odds are, the first things that come to mind are castles and huge cathedrals that took hundreds of years to construct. They introduced such classic architectural designs as the flying buttresses, pointed arches, clustered columns, pinnacles, stained-glass windows, ornamental statues, barrel values, and so much more. These styles were so enduring that they are now known as the pre-Romanesque, Romanesque, and Gothic styles.
With a view of looking back at the Romans and the Greeks, the Renaissance introduced the idea of symmetry and proportion into architecture. They sought to merge the idea of structure, function, and decoration into a beautiful harmony for the eyes to love. Renaissance architects used a lot of Classical architecture, along with mosaics and stained glass windows.
Modern architecture looks to invent new forms at every turn. Emphasis is placed on functionalism and simplicity at its finest form. Plus, modern architects aim to incorporate technology and new building materials to achieve a symmetry all their own. The idea of an open floor plan emerged, as well as using natural materials unfinished in projects.
Neenan Archistruction® aims to be a unique builder that brings value and vitality to your commercial, education, government, and healthcare building projects. We utilize a collaborative design process that ensures the client is involved in their building project at every step, offering input so that we can understand their goals and work to make them happen. Your values matter for your building project, and we aim to make the entire design/build process transparent.
Our design/build firm is based in Fort Collins, Colorado, but we serve all of Colorado, Wyoming, and nationwide. If you are interested in partnering with us for your next building design and construction, contact us today!
