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How has architectural history influenced modern design and architecture?

Lise Larver

Well well well, let me tell you, architectural history has influenced modern design and architecture more than a cat influences a ball of yarn. It's really wild how much our built environment has evolved over the centuries, and how much of that change has been influenced by the past.

Let's kick things off with the Ancient Greeks and Romans, those marble-loving pioneers of civilization. They gave us pillars, arches, and domes -- basically the OGs of structural engineering. Fast forward a bit to the Gothic era, and we've got flying buttresses and stained glass windows aplenty. And don't even get me started on the Renaissance -- Michelangelo and his buddies practically reinvented how we think about beauty and proportion.

But enough with the history lesson, let's talk about how all this old stuff still matters today. For starters, so many modern buildings incorporate elements of classical design, from columns to pediments to friezes. If you've ever walked through a grand government building or a fancy hotel lobby, there's a good chance you were surrounded by some serious Greco-Roman vibes.

But it's not just about stealing ideas from the ancients -- modern architects are also pushing the boundaries of what's possible thanks to advances in materials and technology. Take, for example, Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Bilbao. This curvy, swoopy masterpiece wouldn't have been possible (or at least not without a LOT more effort) in eras past. And thanks to digital design tools, we're seeing buildings that are even more mind-bogglingly complex emerge all the time.

But it's not just about aesthetics and engineering feats -- architectural history has also taught us a lot about how to design spaces that work for people. The ancient Greeks, for example, were all about harmony and balance, and they thought a lot about how different parts of a building could relate to one another. Meanwhile, the Gothic architects were all about creating soaring, awe-inspiring spaces that made worshippers feel closer to God. And today, we're still learning from these past masters about how to create environments that are not just functional, but also emotionally resonant.

So there you have it -- a (not-so-brief) rundown of how architecture's past is shaping its present and future. Whether you're a fan of ancient temples or sleek skyscrapers, there's no denying that we wouldn't be where we are today without those who came before us. So next time you're awed by a beautiful building, take a moment to appreciate the ghosts of architects past who helped make it possible.