In this ever-changing profession of Architecture, there is always some new, dazzling style to follow or an innovative new trend to look forward to. Architecture, as we all know, is a constantly evolving field. There are always upcoming technologies, construction methods, and even talented young newcomers! Architecture is truly one of the few professions that have never pretended to remain static.
Not only is architecture a rapidly developing field, but it is also the only profession that mirrors the changes in the beliefs, ideas, even religion of the society of different eras. It is a true reflection of the development of society as a whole.
The current century sees contemporary architecture as its prevailing style. The unique feature of this style is that no single trend is dominant. Modern steel and glass skyscrapers tower over traditional structures, if not harmoniously, then at least without much discord. Indeed, the last dominant style of the 21st century was modernism. This style has carved out its niche in contemporary architecture. Does this mean there are no more fascinating trends and styles architecture fanatics can look forward to? Not at all!
We have rounded up a list of the latest innovative styles in the architecture world that have already started making their presence felt!
1. Parametricism
The term Parametricism was coined by Ar. Patrik Schumacher in 2008. As the name suggests this style is characterized by the use of parametric design programs to create structures that are created using parametric softwares and technologies. This style is based on the concept that all elements of the building are interlinked, and an outside influence that changes one alters all the others.
Parametric buildings are all about mind-bending complex forms. They fit in with the adage, “If you think about it, you can create it.” This style combines aesthetics and functionality to create more dynamic and adaptable structures. Parametric softwares allow architects to give rein to their imaginations and design without constraints. This is one style we will be seeing a lot of in the upcoming years without a doubt!
2. Blobitecture
Blobitecture is a form of post-modern architectural style. This style generally features curved and rounded building shapes, popularly known as ‘blobs’. These buildings have a free-flowing and organic appearance, which can seem deceptively simple but are created using a diverse range of materials and computer-aided design softwares.
This style has been steadily gaining popularity in the past few decades. Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, can be considered an example of Blobitecture. Blobitecture proves that organic shapes and designs will never go out of style!
3. Digital Morphogenesis
The concept of morphogenesis has initially been derived from the field of biology and later applied to other fields like geology, geomorphology, and of course architecture.
In architecture, morphogenesis is often used as an inspiration for the built form as a representative, generative, and transformative tool.
Morphogenetic designs can sustain numerous functions at once, inspired by their biological counterparts. This is a movement that is yet to reach its full potential and is progressing at a blistering speed. Architect Tom Wiscombe designed the San Francisco Bus Terminal by incorporating the concept of digital morphogenesis into his design process. He was inspired by the process through which algae proliferate and decided to apply the same to this project, successfully incorporating biomimetic design into the project.
4. Deconstructivism
Deconstructivism is a movement of postmodern architecture that translates to the disintegration or break down of a fully-constructed building, to create an entirely new structure. Deconstructivism in architecture was influenced by the theories given by French philosopher Jacques Derrida who stated “Architecture is nothing but one of many ways of communication.”
Several noted architects today exhibit a style that is seen as a form of Deconstructivism. This style can be seen as a way of “distorting” a constructed building to create “controlled chaos”. The idea is to create a constructed whole by piecing together several deconstructed parts. This eclectic style has its share of admirers and has made quite an impact in the architectural world.
5. Neo-futurism
Neo-futurism is an avant-garde movement that draws inspiration from the future to create technologically advanced buildings. These buildings could resemble sleek skyscrapers, futuristic domes, or hi-tech cityscapes. This is a largely experimental style that challenges the rigid ideals of traditional architecture.
This movement seeks to design unique, non-conformist structures using materials like glass, aluminum, and steel. The structures could be angular, curvy, convoluted, or minimalistic, there is no apparent restriction. Several famous buildings today have been constructed with this trend as their inspiration.
6. Neo-traditionalism
This style of contemporary architecture is truly a blast from the past. Neo Traditional buildings attempt to merge the best of both worlds: historic styles coupled with modern materials like vinyl and mock-brick, to create concinnity.
This style aims to revive the traditional architecture style of the bygone era by borrowing popular design elements such as gable style roofs, exposed roof rafters, etc. and implanting them in modern structures. This style also seeks to invoke nostalgia by using traditional details in the modern context, proving that emotions play a huge role in how we design our buildings.
7. Eco architecture
Eco architecture can also be called Sustainable architecture. This style aims to reduce the negative environmental impact of buildings in a planned, systematic manner. Eco-friendly technology, materials, and techniques are incorporated to create more environmentally conscious structures.
It is encouraged to use energy generated through renewable sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, etc., and materials like trass, linoleum, recycled glass, sustainably harvested wood, vermiculite, bamboo, recycled metals in construction. This is one style that is here to stay and which needs to be incorporated to make architecture a more eco-conscious field.
8. Brutalism
Brutalism is a style that first emerged in the 1950s but is currently seeing a resurgence in popularity. It has also inspired other styles like industrial chic and has gained its own set of admirers as well as naysayers. Brutalist buildings are known for their stark, almost menacing appearance.
The Capitol city of Panem in The Hunger Games was inspired by this movement. This is a style that frequently goes out of fashion only to make a successful comeback. Brutalist architecture is characterized by the use of concrete to create massive, monolithic structures; in fact, the term brutalism was derived from ‘beton brut’ meaning raw concrete.
