The Most Recognizable Architectural Styles in the World

Architecture around the world offers indescribable beauty. Let’s take a look at some of the most recognizable architectural styles in the world, from Greek and Roman to postmodern.

Baroque

Originating in Italy, baroque architecture use emotional and dramatic styles to appeal to the senses. Features such as ovals with concave and convex forms suggest motion. Distortion is also one of the main properties of baroque, using broken, manipulated, and elongated forms. A notable example of baroque architecture includes the Palace of Versailles in France.

Postmodern

Becoming prominent in the 1960s, postmodern architects focused on rigidity and austerity, incorporating artistic decorating elements versus the clean lines of modern architectural styles. The concept of postmodernism is thinking outside of conformity, using whimsical and hybrid designs. Some buildings that feature postmodern design include the Dancing House in Prague and the Vanna Venturi House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Gothic

When you think of gothic architecture, the most famous building that probably comes to mind is Notre-Dame in Paris. Beginning in France and focusing on stonework and masonry, Gothic architecture has been a persistent design for hundreds of years. Sharply pointed arches, flying buttresses, and vaulted columns are the features that stand out the most in Gothic architecture.

Greek and Roman

Considered one of the most recognizable architectural styles in the world, the Greek and Roman architectural style adheres to the concept of building structures with simple templates. Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian columns are identifiable elements of classic Greek architecture. Some of the most famous Greek and Roman architectural pieces include the Colosseum in Rome and the Acropolis in Athens.

Victorian

Victorian architecture broadly defines the architecture found in English cities during the Victorian era, which lasted from 1837 to 1901. With notable features such as ornate rooftops, sliding sash and bay windows, plain or colorful bricks, ornate gables, and octagonal or round towers, this style eventually spread to other countries, including Australia, North America, and New Zealand. Interior features include decorative fireplaces, high ceilings, grand staircases, and carved wood paneling.

Modern

Modern architecture came to be in the early to mid-20th century, rejecting decorative styles. It favors functional design, clean lines, open floor plans, built-in storage, and a significant focus on nontraditional materials such as metal fabrics, concrete, iron, glass, wood, stone, and brick. Another essential feature of modern architecture is bringing the outdoors inside with large windows that let in natural air and light.

Additional Resources:

Mexico

Russia

China

Peru

Japan

South Korea

Scotland

Australia