Theory - VBK Architecture

Design Theory

To deliver the best possible design and thoughtful project execution, understanding the history and current context of architecture is essential. Effective communication with clients, developers, and all project stake holders requires familiarity with common design aspects and terminology. Below is a collection of paramount architectural approaches in recent decades and essential nomenclature within the field of architecture today. Architecture is a rapidly evolving field; contact us if you would like to see additional information on this page, have suggestions for further terms, or have questions. We look forward to creative conversation.

Contemporary Architecture – Generally and in Context

Contemporary architecture is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of architectural movements and styles from the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Contemporary Architecture – Specifically

Contemporary architecture is a broad term that encompasses the architecture of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is characterized by its eclecticism and diversity, and it draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, including traditional architectural styles, modernism, postmodernism, and new technologies.

Bauhaus

The Bauhaus was a German art school and design movement that operated from 1919 to 1933. It was founded by Walter Gropius with the goal of uniting all forms of art, craft, and industry. The Bauhaus had a profound influence on architecture, design, and art education, and its principles continue to be used today.

International Style

The International Style was a major architectural movement of the 20th century. It emerged in Europe in the 1920s and spread to the United States in the 1930s. The International Style was characterized by its simple, geometric forms, lack of ornamentation, and use of modern materials such as steel, glass, and concrete.

Futurism

Futurism was an early 20th-century art movement that originated in Italy. It was characterized by its celebration of speed, dynamism, and technology. Futurist architects sought to create a new architecture that was appropriate for the modern age. They rejected the traditional architectural styles of the past and embraced new materials and technologies such as steel, glass, and concrete.

Neofuturism

Neo-futurism is a late-20th-century and early-21st-century architectural movement that emerged as a reaction to the postmodernist movement. Neo-futurism is characterized by its use of bold, geometric forms, new materials and technologies, and a sense of optimism about the future.

Modernism

Modernism in architecture was a movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was a reaction against the traditional architectural styles of the past, such as Victorian and Gothic architecture. Modernist architects sought to create a new architecture that was appropriate for the modern age. They rejected the ornamentation and fussiness of traditional architecture and embraced a simpler, more functional style.

Postmodernism

Postmodernism in architecture was a movement that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was a reaction against the strict rules and regulations of modernist architecture. Postmodern architects sought to create a more playful and eclectic style of architecture. They rejected the modernist emphasis on simplicity and functionality and embraced a more complex and eclectic approach.

Metamodernism

Metamodernism in architecture is a relatively new movement that emerged in the early 21st century. It is a reaction against both modernism and postmodernism. Metamodern architects seek to create a new architecture that is both progressive and traditional, both idealistic and pragmatic.

Neomodernism

Neomodernism in architecture is a movement that emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is a reaction against the eclecticism and skepticism of postmodernism. Neomodernist architects seek to create a new architecture that is based on the principles of modernism, but that is also responsive to the challenges of the contemporary world.

Deconstructivism

Deconstructivism in architecture is a movement that emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is a reaction against the postmodern emphasis on eclecticism and the modernist emphasis on simplicity and functionality. Deconstructivist architects seek to create a new architecture that is fragmented, disjointed, and unpredictable.

Phenomenology

Phenomenology in architecture is a philosophical approach to design that focuses on the human experience of space. Phenomenologists believe that architecture should be designed to evoke an emotional response from the user, and they seek to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional.

CURRENT DESIGN STRATEGIES & TERMINOLOGY

Sustainability: This theory emphasizes the importance of designing buildings and structures that are environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. Sustainable architecture considers the entire building life cycle, from materials used to construct it to the way it is operated and maintained.
Human-centered Design: This theory focuses on designing spaces that meet the needs of people who use them. Human-centered design considers factors such as ergonomics, accessibility, and universal design.
Smart Design: This theory incorporates technology into architecture to create more intelligent and efficient buildings and structures. Smart design can be used to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and create more comfortable and productive spaces.
Biophilic Design: This theory is based on the idea that humans have an innate connection to nature. Biophilic design seeks to incorporate natural elements and principles into architecture to create healthier and more sustainable spaces.
New Urbanism: This theory emphasizes the importance of designing cities and towns that are walkable, bikeable, and livable. New urbanism seeks to create communities that are dense, mixed-use, and transit oriented.
Regenerative Design: This theory goes beyond sustainability to focus on designing spaces that actually improve the environment. Regenerative design seeks to create buildings and structures that are net positive, meaning they produce more energy than they consume and generate more resources than they use.
Circular Design: This theory is based on the idea of a circular economy, in which materials are recycled and reused rather than being disposed of. Circular design seeks to design buildings and structures that can be easily dismantled and recycled at the end of their life cycle.
Performance-based Design: This theory focuses on designing buildings and structures that meet specific performance criteria, such as energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and thermal comfort. Performance-based design is becoming increasingly popular as architects seek to create buildings that are more sustainable and healthier for their occupants.
Adaptable and resilient design: This approach focuses on creating buildings and spaces that can be easily adapted to changing needs and conditions. This is becoming increasingly important in a world facing climate change, urbanization, and other challenges.