Why is Architecture Important?

Author: Paul

Architecture has physically and conceptually shaped human society for thousands of years, providing spaces for people to live, work, and play. Architecture serves a functional purpose but also is a means of artistic expression, cultural representation, and social communication. We’ll explore the importance of architecture and why it matters for individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

While structures have been designed by non-architects, there are many reasons why having architects involved with the building process is necessary.

Architecture is the art and science of designing and constructing buildings and other physical structures. It involves the planning, designing, and construction of spaces that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and safe for occupancy.

Follow along to learn about:

The Importance of Building Design

Building design is one of the primary aspects of architecture, and it plays a crucial role in the performance, artistic nature, and sustainability of the structure. The design of a building affects the way people interact with the space, the comfort and safety of its occupants, and the environmental impact of its construction and operation. A well-designed building can enhance the quality of life of its occupants, increase productivity and efficiency, and promote health and resilience.

A building’s design refers to various elements, including its layout, form, materials, colors, textures, lighting, acoustics, and ventilation. These elements should be carefully considered to create a cohesive and functional design that meets the needs and aspirations of its users.

For example, a residential building should have a layout that allows for privacy, comfort, and natural light. However, a commercial building should have a layout that facilitates communication, collaboration, and accessibility. The choice of materials should also consider factors such as durability, energy efficiency, and environmental impact. For example, using locally sourced and renewable materials can reduce the carbon footprint of a building and support the local economy.

paul halajian architects schematics for building designs

Why the Architecture Process Is Vital in Constructing Buildings

The architecture process is a systematic and builds on ideas as they are imagined, evaluated, and changed leading to a design that meets established goals. The process involves various collaborators, including the client, the architect, the engineers, the contractors, and the regulatory authorities.

Stages of the Architecture Process

The architecture process typically includes the following stages:

  1. Conceptual Design: Defining the project goals, requirements, constraints, and opportunities, and then developing the initial design concepts and ideas based on the program and site analysis.
  2. Architectural Design: Refining the design concepts by creating schematic drawings and diagrams before moving into a design development phase and then producing construction documents. This process requires the engineers and architects working as a team on a shared effort.
  3. Construction Phase: After getting the documents approved by the regulatory authorities, contractors prepare and submit bids. The project is awarded to the contractors that submitted the lowest bids. The contractors then mobilize on-site, and construction begins. As the project nears completion, closeout walkthroughs, inspections and demobilization occur and finally the keys are handed to the client.

Each phase of the architecture process is critical for the success of the project, and each requires a different set of skills, knowledge, and tools. The architecture process also involves various trade-offs between the project goals, constraints, and resources. This requires creativity, cooperation, and communication among the collaborators.

By following a rigorous process and working in a transparent manner, relying on open and honest communication, architects can ensure that the building meets the functional, aesthetic, and sustainable criteria, as well as the client’s expectations and budget.

architects gather around discussing designs

Why Are Architects Necessary?

Architects are essential to the design and construction process of the building, bringing their unique skill sets to ensure that a structure is not just functional, safe, and sustainable but also aesthetically pleasing and able to reflect the culture and society for which it was built.

Architects have the technical knowledge and experience to oversee the construction process and ensure that it meets all relevant codes and regulations. They are also responsible for coordinating with other professionals involved in the project. This often includes engineers, contractors, and interior designers.

Along with technical expertise, architects are also highly creative problem solvers. They can envision how a building will look and function before it is built, identifying potential issues and developing solutions to address them. Architects also consider the broader impact of the building on the surrounding environment and community, ensuring that it is a positive addition to the area.

small scale model of paul halajian architect building

How Architecture Impacts Society

Another reason why architecture is important is that it has a significant impact on society. Architecture directly influences the ways people live, work, and interact with each other. Buildings are not just functional spaces—they are cultural and historical artifacts that reflect the values, beliefs, and aspirations of the society that creates them.

Good architecture can enhance the quality of life of the people who use the buildings. It can promote physical and psychological well-being, foster a sense of community, and improve social interactions. For example, well-designed public spaces can encourage people to gather and interact, creating a sense of community and promoting social cohesion.

Architecture also has an impact on the environment at the local and global levels. Buildings consume a significant amount of resources. Sustainable architecture seeks to minimize the environmental impact of buildings, using energy-efficient design, renewable materials, and green building practices.

What Happens When You Take Away the Architecture Process

To better understand the importance of architecture, it’s helpful to consider what would happen if the architecture process were absent:

  • Without the architecture process, buildings could be constructed without proper planning or oversight, potentially leading to structural issues and safety concerns.
  • Without architects, buildings may not be aesthetically pleasing or functional, leading to poor quality of life for the people who use them.
  • Without sustainable architecture, buildings would consume more resources and have a detrimental impact on the environment.
  • Without consideration for the surrounding community, buildings could contribute to social isolation and have a negative impact on the local area.
paul halajian architect designing schematics for a building

Architecture Is Essential

Architecture solves complex problems and meets people’s needs where they need them: in their homes, schools, workspaces, and recreation areas. Without architecture, buildings can lack functionality, safety, and sustainability. Architecture shapes our world, impacting the physical, social, cultural, and economic aspects of our lives.

Learn more about why architecture is important from the experts by following our social media on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.