Coursework Assessment

Essay Writing 15%

The influence of culture on architectural design

When we discuss the influence of culture on modern architecture, we often think about

Postmodernism. Postmodernism is the paradigm of cultural influence on architectural design in the history of

architecture. During this period which extends all through the second half of the 20th century, architects

viewed buildings as texts that have cultural meanings and importance behind. How does culture influence

architecture design? In this essay, we are going to see that cultural factors, including history, traditions, and

social norms, shape the design and construction of buildings and it happens through the use of traditional

styles, materials and their functionality.

One of the most apparent ways in which cultural norms impact architectural design is through the use

of traditional forms and styles. Architectural styles often reflect the prevailing culture, values, and historical

context of a society. A prime example is the Gothic architecture that emerged in Europe during the Middle

Ages. The towering cathedrals like the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, adorned with intricate

stained-glass windows and pointed arches were not only places of worship but also expressions of the spiritual

and cultural aspirations of the time (Simson, O. G. (1988). The Gothic Cathedral: Origins of Gothic

Architecture and the Medieval Concept of Order, Princeton University Press.). Similarly, the pagodas of East

Asia, with their distinctive tiered roofs and ornate decorations, exemplify the influence of cultural norms on

architectural forms (Cody, J. W., & Steinhardt, N. S. (2011). Chinese Architecture and the Beaux-Arts,

University of Hawaii Press.). In more recent times, cultural norms continue to shape architectural design. For

Page 1 of 5
instance, the sleek and minimalist designs of modernist architecture in the mid-20th century were influenced

by the desire for simplicity and functionality, reflecting the cultural values of the era: we can take as a witness

the sadly famous twin towers (World Trade Center), in New-York (Frampton, K. (1992). Modern Architecture:

A Critical History, Thames & Hudson.). In contrast, the resurgence of interest in vernacular architecture from

the 60’s the 21st century, known as postmodernism (mostly in developed countries, to fight the modernist

view), is characterized by a return to local and traditional building styles, is a testament to the enduring impact

of cultural traditions on design. A great example of this return to cultural norms is the Steinenberg Hotel in

Egypt, by Philip Johnson (Asquith, L., & Vellinga, M. (2006). Vernacular Architecture in the 21st Century:

Theory, Education, and Practice, Taylor & Francis.). Thus, architectural styles are not static; they evolve in

response to cultural shifts and societal preferences, perpetuating the interplay between culture and

architecture.

Materials used in architecture provide another canvas for cultural expression. The choice of materials

is influenced by factors such as climate, available resources, and cultural significance. For example, the use of

adobe in the construction of traditional Southwestern American Pueblos is not merely a matter of practicality

but a cultural legacy passed down through generations. Similarly, the warm and earthy tones of terracotta tiles

in Mediterranean architecture, in Venice, Marseille, Barcelona, Palermo… reflect the region's cultural

connection to the sun-drenched landscapes and historical traditions (Bell, V. B., & Rand, P. (2006). Materials

for Design, Princeton Architectural Press.). Furthermore, the utilization of modern materials can also be

influenced by cultural norms. The incorporation of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in contemporary

architecture is a response to the cultural shift towards environmental consciousness and responsible design.

Bamboo, for instance, is increasingly used in architecture due to its sustainability and its association with

Asian cultures, like on The Temple House at Green Village in Bali (Indonesia), that have long revered it for its

strength and versatility (Calkins, M. (2008). Materials for Sustainable Sites: A Complete Guide to the

Evaluation, Selection, and Use of Sustainable Construction Materials, Wiley.). These examples underscore

how the choice of materials in architecture is deeply rooted in cultural norms and environmental

considerations.

Page 2 of 5
 Beyond form and materials, the very function of buildings is another aspect of architecture profoundly

influenced by culture. The purpose of a structure, whether it be a temple, a market, or a family home, is

intrinsically tied to the societal needs and cultural values of the community it serves. For instance, the Taj

Mahal in India is not just a mausoleum; it is a testament to love and the grandeur of Mughal architecture

(Williams, C. (1991). Art and Architecture –Taj Mahal– The Illumined Tomb: An Anthology of

Seventeenth-Century Mughal and European Documentary Sources. The Middle East Journal, 45(2), 353.). In

contrast, the design of modern skyscrapers, which emphasize efficiency and maximization of space, reflects

the fast-paced, urbanized, and commercially driven cultures of many Western societies (Ching, F. D. K.

(2014). Architecture: Form, Space, and Order, Wiley.). Mosques in non-Muslim countries, for example, are

designed to accommodate both religious rituals and cultural integration, symbolizing the harmonious

coexistence of cultures within a single architectural structure . As we saw in some cases, architecture serves as

a bridge between cultures, creating spaces that cater to the diverse needs of different communities.

In conclusion, we saw in this essay that actually, cultural norms, history, and traditions are intrinsic to

the very soul of architectural design. From the innovative postmodern creations like the Steinenberg Hotel in

Egypt that draw inspiration from the past to the age-old traditions that shape materials and form especially in

less developed countries of Asia (Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia…), architecture reflects culture's enduring

impact. The function of buildings, too, carries the imprints of cultural values and societal needs as we can see

with many mosques in western countries. As we traverse the diverse landscapes of architectural design

worldwide, cultures and its norms, traditions and history should be influencing the way we design, so it can be

a testament to the enduring significance of culture in the ever-evolving world of architecture.

Page 3 of 5
References :

Asquith, L., & Vellinga, M. (2006). Vernacular Architecture in the 21st Century: Theory, Education,

and Practice, Taylor & Francis.

Bell, V. B., & Rand, P. (2006). Materials for Design, Princeton Architectural Press.

Calkins, M. (2008). Materials for Sustainable Sites: A Complete Guide to the Evaluation, Selection,

and Use of Sustainable Construction Materials, Wiley.

Ching, F. D. K. (2014). Architecture: Form, Space, and Order, Wiley.

Cody, J. W., & Steinhardt, N. S. (2011). Chinese Architecture and the Beaux-Arts, University of

Hawaii Press.

Frampton, K. (1992). Modern Architecture: A Critical History, Thames & Hudson.

Simson, O. G. (1988). The Gothic Cathedral: Origins of Gothic Architecture and the Medieval

Concept of Order, Princeton University Press.

Williams, C. (1991). Art and Architecture –Taj Mahal– The Illumined Tomb: An Anthology of

Seventeenth-Century Mughal and European Documentary Sources. The Middle East Journal, 45(2), 353.

Submitted to:

Mrs. Saima Nomaan

Submitted By: Rayan ALDUAIJ

CUD ID: 20230003630

Date: 17/11/2023

Page 4 of 5
 General Education Department
Student Undertaking
COURSEWORK ASSESSMENT- Essay Writing 15%

Course Code: LNG171-1-2 ARC

Course Name: English-1

Course Teacher: SAIMA NOMAAN

Student Name: Rayan ALDUAIJ

Student CUD ID: 20230003630

Task Type: Essay writing

Task Description: Essay writing –/+ 800 words

Course Learning CLO 3 - Compose well developed paragraph(s) with topic

Outcomes: sentences, supporting ideas and concluding sentences.

Special Follow the Essay writing guidelines provided by your professor.

Instructions:

Weighting: 15%

Genre/Word As per Essay guidelines provided.

Limit/Duration:

Due Date: Week 11-12

Academic Honesty: Breaches of Academic Honesty will be treated with the utmost
seriousness. You are reminded the penalties for cheating or
plagiarism include dismissal from the CUD.
In accordance with CUD Academic Integrity & Honesty policy –
Art 14.8.2
• Students are required to refrain from all forms of academic
dishonesty as defined and explained in CUD procedures and
directions in the Undergraduate student handbook 2023-24.
• A student found guilty of having committed acts of academic
dishonesty may be subject to one or more of the disciplinary
measures as outlined in Article 14.8.2 of the Student and
Academic Regulations.

Signature: Rayan

Page 5 of 5