Types of Architecture: Exploring Different Architectural Styles
Types of Architecture
Our professionals at DBA Architects pride ourselves on the beauty of both our residential and commercial buildings. Anyone who scans the website of our architectural firm in DFW can tell that all of our buildings are somewhat different from each other and have different types of architecture. Here are types of architecture commonly seen in the modern era:
International Style
Buildings created in the International Style often have flat, ledgeless roofs and windows that are flush with the outer walls. This is different from other types of architecture because the walls are sometimes but not always left blank. Occasionally they are actually not there to support the building but act as curtains that are hung over the building’s skeleton, which is what really gives the structure its support. The facades tend to be asymmetrical and sometimes windows wrap around the corners of the building. Since the walls do not actually have to support them, some of these buildings have cantilevered balconies or roofs. It may be hard to find the door in these buildings because it is deliberately hidden behind a wall or other structure.
Contemporary
These buildings can have flat or sloped roofs, with flat-roofed buildings being a subset of the International Style. The exterior walls may also lack decoration but are not completely featureless, as many are faced with brick, stone or wood. These buildings are more integrated into the landscape than International style buildings, which almost functioned as types of sculpture that were plunked down on lawns or among trees.
Contemporary style buildings with gabled roofs often have projecting eaves and exposed beams. Like the flat-roof style of building, they are faced with stone, brick, wood or other materials.
Neoecletic
These types of architectural styles harken back to more traditional styles of architecture and have the word “Neo” as a prefix. For example, there are buildings made in the Neo-French, Neo-Tudor, Neo-Mediterranean, Neo-Victorian and Neoclassical Revival styles. These buildings borrow such detailing as full-height columns, half-timbering in the gables and over the windows, arched windows and doors and octagonal cupolas. Some new apartment buildings echo the Italianate style by featuring towers topped by low-pitched roofs.
National Style
Most buildings constructed in this style are modest private homes. They often have side or front gabled roofs that are sometimes made of corrugated metal. The siding is made of vertical batten board or horizontal weatherboarding.
Queen Anne
Private houses built in this style have steeply pitched roofs with front facing gables that may sport one window or Palladian windows. They have patterned shingles, bay windows and often have porches that stretch the width of the front of the house and sometimes extend around a side wall. Some have projecting, front-facing dormers with gable roofs.
Post Modern
Post Modern architecture is a movement developed in contrast to the unadorned and rather utilitarian International Style. Buildings constructed in this style may have different sections of different heights, colors or materials. Some aspects of the types o architecture can harken back to more traditional styles, with piers, domed roofs, elaborate stone carvings or archways. Technology has also allowed these buildings to be designed in shapes that were not possible during earlier periods types of architecture.
Our architects at DBA Architects, the premier architectural firm in DFW are eager to design the commercial space or house that’s just right for you, your family or your business. Don’t hesitate to call us at (866) 976-4049.
