As we learn more about architecture, it becomes increasingly complex. There are many different styles, types, and categories that describe how an architect structures his or her designs. These terms seem to continually evolve and merge together.

That is why it can be tricky to understand the term “style” when people use it to describe buildings. Technically, a style is just one example of what architects call a genre. A genre is a collection of concepts that individual designers blend into their work.

There are several genres in architectural design. Some of the most well-known include Neoclassical, Gothic, Romanesque, Art Deco, Minimalist, and Postmodernism. All of these have inspired new generations of architects to create unique works.

This article will discuss some of the major styles used for building construction including pictures and short descriptions.

Prairie style architecture

In the early part of the 20th century, architects in America experimented with many different styles. Some designed very formal buildings that were rich in decoration, while others built sleek, minimalist structures with little or no ornamentation.

One such architect was Frank Lloyd Wright, who is well known for his use of natural light, curved shapes, organic decorations, and simple lines. His work can be categorized as expressionistic or romantic art, which emphasize artistic feeling over strict logic.

A good example of his design approach is The Robie Street Warehouse, located in downtown Chicago. This flat roofed building features rounded corners, heavy use of wood, and asymmetrical layouts. It also uses bright colors to create an energetic space.

This type of architecture is called prairie style, due to its similarity to grassy plains and landscapes. Many people consider it the most beautiful style ever conceived.

Modernist architectural styles

Next we will look at two more specific types of modernism: International style and Deconstructivism. Both play with your perception by looking beyond what you would normally see.

The international style focuses on proportion, balance, and unity. Materials used are neutral so they do not influence the mind too much. For instance, glass and steel are usually used instead of brick and timber.

Deconstructionists deconstruct traditional concepts like roofs, windows, and doors.

Art deco architecture

In the early to mid-20th century, art deco was one of the most influential styles in architectural design. Developed by famed Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, art deco is characterized by geometric shapes, patterns, and decorations. It also features strong lines and solid colors that emphasize ornamentation.

Art déco quickly became popular worldwide as architects incorporated its style into their work. Some famous buildings designed using art deco include the Empire State Building, Chase Bank Tower, and the Chrysler Center.

However, not every building designed during this time period conforms to the art deco aesthetic. Two major reasons for this are political influence and financial constraints.

Political influences often require an artist to make designs that match what has already been done, so they will use existing motifs or structures instead of designing something new. This can be difficult when you want to create your own unique style!

Financial limitations sometimes prevent designers from fully incorporating their artistic vision due to cost. If a contractor needs feedback, they may ask you to use a similar theme or pattern as them, which could eliminate your chance of being hired because you don’t like their look.

Overall though, there are several reasons why artists choose to produce works within the framework of other styles. It can help promote unity among different groups of people, and it gives others credit for good craftsmanship.

Streamline style architecture

Streamline design is one of the most recognizable styles in modern architectural fashion. It was pioneered by French architect Le Corbusier, who designed many buildings using this approach.

The main feature of streamline design is its very shape- it’s almost always shaped like a long slender tube or a tall thin cylinder. This shape is sometimes called the “sculptural element” of the building because of how well it echoes the human form.

Streamlines often have horizontal lines running up the side to create an illusion of depth, and they are usually framed with vertical lines as well. These additions emphasize the streamlined look even more.

Some examples of streamline style include The Chrysler Corporation headquarters in Detroit, MAIT International Headquarters in Paris, and the United States Embassy in London.

Chicago has several famous examples of streamline design including both residential and commercial properties. Two of the city’s best known streamline designs are Philip Johnson’s Four Seasons Hotel at 220 East Fiftieth Street and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House located at 538 West Concordia Avenue in Oak Park.

Modernist architecture

Contemporary architectural styles are often referred to as “modern” or “post-Modern,” but before those terms existed, architects used something else! They called their style “functionalism.”

Functionalism is the shaping of space for practical use. For example, look at the interior of a grocery store. There are shelves for fruits and vegetables, and coolers for perishable goods. These were the inspiration for modernists.

They designed spaces that have practical functions such as cooking, eating, storing, washing etc. Materials are chosen for how well they perform these tasks. Adornments are limited to only what is needed to fulfill the function assigned to the space.

Architects who practiced functional design include Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe and others. All made significant contributions to this style.

Chicago skyscraper architecture

While some people associate tall buildings with big cities, this is not always the case. Many large cities have experienced a period where almost no high rise buildings exist. This is the case in many major metropolitan areas around the world.

Chicago is one such city. Since World War II, there has been an explosion in skyscraper construction that has shaped the skyline and style of urban design for future generations.

Many consider it to be the golden era of architectural building production in America. During this time, only two types of skyscrapers were built: either classic or modernist.

Now we can add another type to the list: neoclassical. Neoclassicism mixes classical styles like those used before the Renaissance with more contemporary designs.

This article will discuss the different styles of skyscraper architectures as well as which ones you should know about if you are interested in creating your own look.

Exterior architecture

As we have seen, interior or spatial design is very important to understanding how an area of space is organized, but there are other major components in urban planning that play a significant role in shaping the look and feel of a place. These include its exterior architectural features or styles.

The style of your home’s exteriors directly influence the way people perceive you as well as what kind of feeling they get when visiting your property.

Interior decoration also contributes greatly to creating a sense of calmness and relaxation. However, true outdoor spaces contribute more than just aesthetic appeal – they help create a connection with nature, promote health and wellness, and offer a respite from the busy world outside.

Chicago has some beautiful examples of both formal and informal residential architectural styling. Some of these designs are classic, while others may be modern or even futuristic!

This article will focus on exploring three main types of external architectural shapes used for designing homes in The Windy City. We will discuss their importance, potential applications, and if they can be considered practical.

Type 1: A simple shape

A simple shape is one that does not seem to change anywhere else. This type of shape is typically round, like a circle, square, or triangle.

Simple shapes work because they draw the eye immediately; it becomes curious as to what element or pattern it will explore next.

Famous landmarks

Many people know Chicago for its tall skyscrapers, but it is also famous for having some incredible architectural pieces built across all styles and periods. Some examples include Willis Tower (the former name of the Trump International Hotel and Towers), The Aqua Building, or the Art Deco Chase Bank building next to the Museum Campus!

Landmarks such as these are great representations of not only what architecture looks like in the city, but how popular and well-known corporations look. They use strong shapes, decorations, and textures to get attention and emphasize their brand’s style.

The best way to appreciate this is by going outside and exploring different areas around the city. You can take pictures from many angles to see how effectively buildings stand out. People who enjoy looking at buildings may even choose to study up on some beautiful structures.

Future landmarks

A landmark building is defined as an architectural work that stands out, attracts attention, and leaves an impression on its viewers. These buildings are more than just aesthetically pleasing, they inspire awe and emotion.

There are several types of famous skyscrapers in the world, such as Art Deco or Gothic structures. But what about something with classic proportions?

A structure that fits into this category should be recognizable but not flashy. They must have beautiful lines that blend seamlessly together, creating a feeling of seclusion.

These types of buildings make up the majority of current architecture in the city. Many people refer to these as “mature” styles due to their resemblance to older buildings.

The tallest tower within our skyline that fit this description was recently completed at 120 North LaSalle Street. This 55-story skyscraper has been called the “Chicago Spire” by some because of its similarity to the Eiffel Tower in look and design.

However, it goes one step further and boasts green roofs which will help mitigate climate change!

Green roofs are landscaped areas with plants that grow tall enough to touch the sky. The layers of vegetation absorb rainwater and purify it before recharging it for use. These also provide unique views from different angles during sunrise and sunset times.

This is important since most of the water that lands on a roof eventually finds its way down through cracks and holes.