History of Architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

History of Architecture - Essay Example With an effective symmetry, one-half of the structure is an exact replica of the other half. Such a section is essential in determining the strength and he ability to the entire structure sine it influences the amount of weight that an engineer attaches on either side. The Facade of Pallao Chiericati is one of Palladio’s most prominent work. The symmetry among other pertinent aspects of the structure is similar to those in the early Roman society. He uses the similar rectangular shapes of the structures prevalent in the early society but he further seeks to achieve beauty and durability by modifying the structures and the design of the structures, a new feature in the Roman architecture that is symbolic of his era. Columns on the other hand refer to the solid upright structures that support the entire weight of the building. This is one of the most important aspect of a construction and requires effective consideration in order to reconcile with the total weight of the structu re. In designing his columns, Palladio accentuated his designs with acanthus leaf capitals at the top of the beams. The Roman structures had stronger columns, which just as in any other structure supported the structures. However, he added the design as a means of achieving increased aesthetic features of his design, thereby becoming an important distinction of his works and the new era in architecture that he pioneered. Palladio’s works laid more importance on the symmetry and perspective of the structure. He developed stronger and balanced structures and incorporated more of his creativity on the decoration of the structures thereby making them iconic beauties. He borrowed such aspects of the Roman society thereby earning relevance among them but incorporated his own creativity a feature that marked the transition between the two architectural eras. Among the most common features he used in decorating his works included scallop shells, typical motifs in the Greek and Roman arts. They used pediments to decorate doors and windows (Alain, 2009). Additionally, masks that were important motifs in the early society were used on the interior decoration of buildings. The increased decorations added weight to the building thereby demanding stronger columns and beams to support. Palladio achieved this through the accurate consideration of symmetry and perspective of his work thereby constructing stronger bases capable of withstanding the intense pressure resulting from the heavier walls and roofs. The uniqueness of the design arose from the fact that he used simple and common materials but with them developed stronger and more stable structure, which embodied beauty of the existing cultures (Giovanni, 1980).He designed simple structures, which he developed in bricks and covered in stucco. The stucco walls represented the Roman Villa topology. This way, he upheld the Roman culture in the art of villa constructions. Question 2 The construction technology resulted in stronger structures than those built in modern societies using steel. Basilique Saint-Denis in northern Paris, Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey in England are some of the early cathedrals whose structures employed the early gothic architecture. Comparing the two to Lincoln Cathedral in England and the Bamberg cathedral