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Of Economy and Design in Architecture— Part 1: An Introduction
The role of the economy in shaping architectural design
This is a series of articles relating to intersecting relationship between design and economics. This is by no far a full coverage of the intersection of the two subject areas. Individually, they can easily be callosal in scope. Instead, as an architectural designer, this is my attempt to explain how I see the two concepts pulling and pushing in real-time.
Architectural design is shaped by various factors, including culture, technology, and the natural environment. Another critical factor that plays a significant role in shaping architectural design is the economy.
Economic conditions can substantially impact the design of buildings and other structures. When the economy is strong, there may be more resources available for the construction of more elaborate and expensive buildings. This can lead to the developing of more innovative and iconic buildings, such as skyscrapers and other iconic landmarks.
On the other hand, when the economy is weaker, there may be less money available for new construction projects, leading to a focus on more practical and functional designs. Economic conditions can also impact the materials and technologies used in construction, the labour market, and the availability of skilled workers. Ultimately, the economy plays a significant role in shaping the look and feel of our built environment, and understanding this relationship is crucial for architects and other professionals in the field of design.
Definition of Economy in the context of Architecture
In the context of architecture, the economy refers to the financial and material resources available to construct and maintain buildings and other structures. This includes the cost of labour, materials, and other resources needed to complete a project.
Economic conditions can significantly impact the design and construction of buildings and the materials and technologies used. When the economy is strong, more resources may be available to construct elaborate and expensive buildings. This can lead to the developing of more innovative and iconic buildings, such as…
