Influences of History on Architecture by Ingrid Chai

INFLUENCES OF HISTORY ON ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BY: INGRID CHAI

SPECIAL THANKS TO... MS. SHORTT, Who deserves special recognition, thank you your wholehearted guidance and all the times youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taken time away to meet up with me. I could not ask for a better supervisor. MR. METZ, Thank you for meeting up with me on such late notice, and for your helpful guidance on how to create this iBook. DAD, Thank you for your generosity in giving me access to your Western Balkan photos, and for always being there to help me. Lastly, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank my family, friends and everyone else for the continual support, advice and encouragement. I could not be more thankful.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

OPENING PARAGRAPH

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

IMPACT OF RELIGION ON ARCHITECTURE

ORTHODOX CHRISTIANITY

CHURCH OF ST. STANKO THE

MARTYR 11

EUPHRASIAN BASILICA

ROMAN CATHOLICISM

SACRED HEART CATHEDRAL

NAME OF MARY CHURCH

ISLAM

HADZI ALIJA MOSQUE

ROZNAMEDZI IBRAHIM- EFENDI

MOSQUE

IMPACT OF ART MOVEMENTS ON ARCHITECTURE

RENAISSANCE MOVEMENT

BISHOP’S PALACE

DUBROVNIK

BAROQUE MOVEMENT

ST. BLAISE’S CHURCH

BELGRADE

NEO- CLASSICAL MOVEMENT

SERB ORTHODOX

CATHEDRAL 30

CONCLUSION

ARCHITECTURAL TERMINOLOGY

OPENING STATEMENT

hat is architecture? According to the Oxford dictionary, architecture is defined as the "art or practice of

designing and constructing buildings". Architecture varies in style, which in itself will reflect not only the period it was designed in, but also the place or culture it is associated with. When designing a structure, an architect will consider the concepts of form and function. Form simply regards aesthetic appeal, while function measures the extent to which a structure serves its purpose. In history, architects have built countless structures to feed the need of us, humans, including roads for travel, churches and mosques for religious practices, clock towers to tell time. This illustrates that architectural design's primary role in defining a building's function to serve a human purpose. Architectural design is influenced by art movements that are in favour when the building is in design. Example of art movements include the Renaissance movement of the early 15th century, the Baroque movement of the late 16th century, and the Neo- classical movement of the mid 18th century. These art movements have affected fashion, interior design, objects of art, in addition to architecture. Over the last few years, I had taken several trips to the Western Baltic region, including Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia Hercegovina (BiH), Montenegro and Slovenia. I had witnessed countless styles of architecture designed in different eras, and had acquired knowledge in the history and culture of this region through travel guidebooks and personal experience. My objective for this project is to show the effects of history on architecture, and thus the extent to which architecture will reflect its history.

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

he Western Baltic region is a peninsula region in Southeastern Europe notorious for its violent history and

conflicts. The root of the region's dark past is a result of different nations and ethnic groups striving to out-power each other. The early occupants of the Balkans had been the Greeks, and so although the Romans began to move into the region soon after in the 2nd century, influences from both empires are evident. Examples would be Eastern Orthodox Christian church from the Greeks and Western Catholic church from the Romans. Later on in the 5th and 6th century, Slav tribes began to migrate south and into the Baltic region- two groups were distinguishable. First of which were those who would later on become the Croatians, and second of which were the Slav Serbs. The Croatians fell under Frankish rule in the 8th century, which lead to the Catholicisation and mass baptism of the country. At the same time, Eastern Orthodoxy in Constantinople had greatly influenced the Slavic Serbs. For the next five centuries or so, the culture of these two groups would continue to profoundly affect the region. Reaching its prime in the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire had conquered numerous nations, including modern day Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia. Up to this day, the Ottoman takeover has managed to shape and influence the artistic, social and political aspects of the region, and nonetheless its religion. Over time, many areas, particularly in Bosnia, had converted from Christianity to Islam. This change in religion had left its marks, as these towns had been fixed with strong Ottoman architecture influences. After all, a conversion in religion would change theÂ practices, location, decor, and ambient of religious worship. In summary, it can be devised that the diverse ethnic groups and religions that are inhabited in the Western Baltic region have each had their own influences on architecture as different tastes and cultures are absorbed to the building designs. Another influence of architecture that is vital to address is that of art movements. Through history, it can be recognized that as time progresses, tendencies and stylistic choices in art would change. A few significant movements are the Renaissance movement of the early 15th century, the Baroque movement of the late 16th century, and the Neo- Classical movement of the 18th and 19th centuries.Â

IMPACT OF RELIGION ON ARCHITECTURE Each and every religion around the world share the common belief that believers should unite in a place of worship to perform rituals to honor their Gods. To speak to, or to hear others preach about the God and religion is a part of religious culture. However, each religion will favor its place of worship into a certain architectural style that is unlike that of another religious culture. The three predominate religions in the Western Balkans are Orthodox Christianity, Roman Catholic, and Islam. There are three architectural styles in this region that can be traced back to religious themes. They are Byzantine architecture, Gothic architecture, and Islamic architecture respectively.Â

ORTHODOX CHRISTIANITY Byzantine architecture is often used in Orthodox Christian churches as a place of religious worship. This architecture style shares many qualities in that of Early Christian architecture, such as the use of mosaic. In Byzantine mosaics, the use of gold backgrounds is common. The focus on the apse of the Orthodox church is another defining element in Byzantine architecture, as is the heavy use of clerestory to admit natural daylight into the usually airy grandeur of the church. This style of architecture is usually centrally planned, meaning that the structure of the church revolves around a centre. The exterior of a Byzantine structure is typically made of brick, and is commonly associated with architectural elements such as pendentives or round domes.Â

CHURCH OF ST. STANKO THE MARTYR An example of a Byzantine style Orthodox Christian church is the Church of St. Stanko the Martyr in Montenegro. One can identify multiple cupolas, or small domes used to crown a roof in this structure. The brick exterior of the church is seen to be centrally planned, as it revolves around the biggest dome in the structure. As well, there are clerestories, or windows designed at a height to allow sunlight to enter the interior of the church. Lastly, at a different angle, it can be seen the use of mosaic to decorate the entrance of the church.

EUPHRASIAN BASILICA Another example is the Euphrasian Basilica, or the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of Mary in Poreč, Croatia. Entering this church, one can see a nave lined with white marble colonnades leading up to give focus on the apse. At the top of each colonnades are the capitals of Byzantine and Greek design. The semi- circular apse at the end of the nave acting as a niche is also decorated with Byzantine mosaics of gold backgrounds. Lastly, one can identify the mass use of clerestory windows for natural light to filter into the cathedral.

ROMAN CATHOLICISM Roman Catholic churches of the mid 12th to 16th century are often built with Gothic styled architecture. To some, this style of architecture is easiest to identify, as its architectural characteristics are very distinguishable from others. For example, Gothic churches and cathedrals come in grand, tall designs that are swept upwards in height. As a result of this, flying buttresses had to be built to resist the pressure from these walls. Its soaring elevation is also the reason for the light and airy feel in the interior of a Gothic structure. This 'majestic' environment is further emphasized with the use of the bright huge rose windows that are circular and often decorated with glazed stain glass. As for decoration, Gothic structures are often adorned with ornate and elaborate designs, such as realistic sculptures, grotesque gargoyles and so on. Lastly, to add to its grandeur and elegance, vaulted ceilings (usually ribbed or fan vaulted) and pointed arches are commonly incorporated in Gothic architecture not only for its aesthetic appeal, but also to spread the force exerted upon the lower floors of the structure.Â

SACRED HEART CATHEDRAL Another Roman Catholic structure is the Gothic styled Sacred Heart Cathedral in Sarajevo, Bosnia Hercegovina. Several Gothic characteristics can be spotted on the face of the cathedral. First would be the huge stain glass rose window. From the interior of the structure, this gives of a feeling of gloriousness. Below this rose window is an intricately sculpted design on the pointed arch that frames the entrance of the cathedral.

NAME OF MARY CHURCH A perfect example of Gothic architecture would be the Roman Catholic Name of Mary Church in Novi Sad, Serbia. The first thing most would notice about this structure are the pinnacles and spires that heighten the church. One can also identify the use of pointed arches in the entrance and the clerestories. The exterior of the structure is embellished with detailed sculpted designs, as well as the huge stain glassed rose window in the centre of the face of the church.

ISLAM Mosques designed and built from the 7th century and onwards were often built with Islamic architecture. This style of architecture is modeled by late antique and Jewish architecture, and thus exhibits many of the same design elements. For example, Islamic structures are often multi- domed, and have multiple cupolas. As well, brick is often used on the exterior of these structures, sometimes to form slim towers called minarets in which Muslims pray. Two other architectural elements often seen in Islamic structures are horseshoe arches and tracery on windows or other openings. Lastly, Islamic mosques have a very unique and easily distinguishable style of decoration called stalactite work. This type of decor uses repeating, geometric formations to make designs. This type of ornamentation is commonly used to decorate the mihrab, which acts as a niche for the God to be worshipped by Muslims.

HADZI ALIJA MOSQUE An example of an Islamic mosque is the Hadzi Alija Mosque in Počitelj, Bosnia Hercegovina. One can identify several elements of this mosque to be in this style of architecture. For example, the brick exterior and the dome in the centre of this mosque. On all sides of the mosque are window openings embellished with intricate patterns called stone tracery. Beside this mosque is a slim tower which serves as a praying place for Muslims, called a minaret. The repeating geometric designs on the minaret, called stalactite are often seen in Islamic structures.

ROZNAMEDZI IBRAHIMEFENDI MOSQUE Another example is theÂ Roznamedzi Ibrahim-efendi Mosque in Mostar, Bosnia Hercegovina. On the brick exterior of the mosque, there are two main structures that can be identifiedthe domed central section, and the minaret on its side. The window openings on the exterior of the dome is once again decorated with stone tracery. On a different angle one will be able to see the entrance to the mosque. The front of the entrance is lined with a colonnade. Something interesting to add is the Turkish flag embellishing the capitals of the horseshoe arch.Â

IMPACT OF ART MOVEMENTS ON ARCHITECTURE In addition to the influences of architecture by religion, we also realize that art movements play a significant part in determining architectural styles in different eras. As discussed earlier, there are three significant art movements that should be addressed. They are the Renaissance movement, Baroque movement, and the Neo- classical movement.Â

RENAISSANCE MOVEMENT The Renaissance movement began in the late 14th century in Florence, Italy. It then spread through Europe in the following centuries. This movement is often seen as a rediscovery or rebirth of the classical Roman forms, as many of the design elements have been revived from that era, for example, pillars, columns, domes, and arches or archways. Something notable in this style of architecture is the emphasis of symmetry and proportion in its design. This was a predetermining factor for beauty. As a result of this, elements such as windows or pilasters would appear in parallel on opposite walls. As for decoration, a wide range of art is used to embellish these structures, such asÂ frescos, statues, engravings and sculptures, paintings, or evenÂ fountains.

BISHOPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PALACE A good example of Renaissance architecture is the Bishop's Palace in Novi Sad, Serbia. When viewing this structure, one will notice the intricately sculpted designs on the arched windows that are in perfect symmetry. As well, the proportions of each window are the same- as seen on the side of the structure, they are also in parallel on the opposite sides of the walls. Also observed are Renaissance styled small domes and pilastersÂ on the face of the structure, which are also in proportion and in symmetry. Something to add is the statue that stands near the front of the palace entrance. Once again, statues are commonly used in Renaissance architecture as a way of decoration.

DUBROVNIK Another example of Renaissance architecture is seen on the streets of Dubrovnik's old town in Croatia. When walking on a street in this old town, one will notice the windows and archways that are symmetrical to both sides of the street. As well, decorating these structures are pilasters of Renaissance style and ornately designed sculptures or even statues.Â

BAROQUE MOVEMENT The art movement following that of the Renaissance movement was the Baroque movement of the 17th century. Comparatively, Baroque architecture has much more of a luxurious feel, as this type of architecture is intended to impress. Baroque architecture has highly decorative details and ornaments such as intricately sculpted designs, often appearing in movement, and ceiling art, as well as fountains and sculptures. Â To further emphasize the opulence of this style of architecture, elements such as twisted columns, masses of windows, broad naves, prestigious stairways and chapels are also be in use in addition to towers and domes.Â

ST BLAISE’S CHURCH An example of a Baroque piece is the St. Blaise's Church in Dubrovnik, Croatia. One would not fail to notice the lavishness of the decorative details all around the church. For example, the three statues of saints at the top, as well as the elaborately sculpted designs on the archway entrance and the capitals of the pilasters. Last but not least is the grand stairway leading to the platform entrance, and the stain glass windows that add color to the white marble of the church. It is easy to say that this Baroque style church is designed to impress.

BELGRADE When walking down the streets of Belgrade, Serbia, one would often come across structures of Baroque architecture. On this building one is able to identify the extravagantly sculpted designs on the walls, the balcony and even on the capitals of the pilasters. As well, it can be seen several sculptures of people in movement, which is also a common trait in Baroque architecture.Â

NEOCLASSICAL MOVEMENT The art movement that took the place of the Baroque movement was the Neo- classical, or 'new' classical movement of the 18th and 19th centuries. As the name suggests, this architecture style was inspired by the classical Roman or Greek styles, and can be seen as another revival of Classical architecture. Simply put, this architectural style put stress on classical elements such as columns, domes, and triangular pediments. This style of architecture was characterized by simplicity.Â Design elements would come in symmetry and in big sizes. For example, there would be a dramatic use of columns that rise to the full height of the structure, or even just the preference for blank walls.Â Many say that this new taste for visual cleanliness is a reaction to the excessiveness of the previous art movements in Baroque and Rococo style.

SERB ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL An example of a Neo- classical structure is the Serb Orthodox Cathedral in Sarajevo, Bosnia Hercegovina. The design for this cathedral is simple- the architectural elements used are symmetrical and come in big sizes. One can identify that walls are left mostly blank. This design puts emphasis on classical elements such as pilasters, domes and triangular pediments. With the exception of the small stain glass window on the face of the cathedral, little use of decor and intricate details can be seen.Â

CONCLUSION

Architectural design aims at serving the needs of a human's living environment to the fullest extent. Based on history, people have had different needs to be satisfied, which will require different types of buildings and infrastructures. For example, when one is a part of an Islamic religious society, in addition to his social habits and lifestyle, the architecture of his home and place of worship will be influenced by that religious culture. As illustrated before, whether one's religion is Orthodox Christianity, Catholicism or Islam, religion will have strong influences on the people of that age, and not less importantly on the architecture of that era.Â Similarly, different art movements will play a significant part in influencing architectural style. What is appealing to the human eye is ever-changing, as artistic appeal is a changing social phenomenon. What appeals to humans in one century will be different to that in another century as aesthetic appeal in art is constantly evolving. It can be appreciated that art and design is applied to all objects of daily use including fashion, jewelry, furniture and also architecture. Therefore significant art movements such as the Baroque movement, the Renaissance movement and the Neo-classical movement have heavily influence architectural style.Â Ultimately, one can grasp that through religion and art movements, history will affect architecture.

ARCHITECTURE TERMINOLOGY APSE

The semi- circular end of nave that usually acts as a niche.

ARCH

A curved member that is used to span and opening or to support loads from above.

CLERESTORIES

Windows at a high level to admit natural daylight into the interior.

DOME

A semi-spherical structure evolved from an arch, usually forming a ceiling or a roof.

FLYING BUTTRESS

A curved support projecting from the face of the wall to strengthen or resist the load created by roof or arch.

GARGOYLE

Traditionally a grotesque bird or beast that sits on the cornice, used as a water sprout to drain water or for decoration.

MINARET

A slim tower, typically connected to the Islamic mosque, in which Muslims pray 5 times a day.

NAVE

An area or aisle in the centre of a church that extends from the entrance to the chancel.

PENDENTIVE

A circular dome over a square room, or a round dome over a rectangular room.

PILASTER

A column that is projected on the wall.

TRACERY

Bars or ribs (usually made of stone) used to decorate windows or other openings.

VAULTS

An arrangement of arches, usually forming a ceiling or a roof.