5 Ways Architectural Designers Help Buildings Stand the Test of Time

Posted on August 11, 2021 Updated on September 9, 2021

Living in a big iconic country becomes the dreams of many because of the breathtaking elegance of the architectural designing in Bahrain. Many times, the aerial views of huge structures give a distinctive edge to the place for the years to come. This is made possible by the architectural designers in Bahrain. Just like the interior decorators in Bahrain create a work of art out of a living space, the architectural designers look after the exterior building structures upto a finesse of an artist.

As 3D technology has progressed by leaps and bounds and more resources are being available to the interior decorator companies in Bahrain, they are able to provide pleasant aesthetics even outdoors. From office interior design in Bahrain with the top office interior companies in Bahrain to large architectural firms, all are shaping the way commercial and residential properties exceed their value and elegance.

Not all structures are made equal. There are a few that stand out and few others blend in. As all companies want to taste success, not all get it because every company wants to get ahead in the race of standing out to grab more market share. Attractive unconventional structures that stand out from the rest is a huge opportunity for big and small companies headquarters to start out and grab attention which is a part of branding. Thus, it makes more sense to work with architectural designers that keep safety and seamless construction a topmost priority. This invites them to pay attention to minute nooks and crannies that otherwise can amplify to become a design disaster over a period of time. Now let us discover the ingredients to help buildings stand tall for countless years.

1. Material Science: Selecting something for the construction and building can get tricky at times. Getting materials that not only takes care of the aesthetics, user experience, strength, durability, flexibility, ease of maintenance, material availability and time required to install are the factors to consider before thinking of a design that is as cohesive as the materials used. For instance, creating a structure using concrete, steel, sheet metal, wood and synthetic polymers requires a fully functional model and a prototype to test its feasibility.
   
   Simulating environments of stress and strain similar to nature upon the completion of your prototype or software model helps ensure the safety, durability and stability of the structure even before it is constructed for real. This is by far one of the best features technology today can offer that helps buildings stand the test of time.
2. Elements of Great Architectural Design:
   
   i) Symmetry: Either horizontal or vertical symmetry also termed as axial and radial symmetry helps create calm living spaces. Our brain is programmed to process symmetrical objects as regular and correct order. Asymmetry is busy and helps a building stand out from the rest. It is also difficult to design asymmetrical buildings that hold well together, that’s why it is regarded as a more prestigious work of art.
   
   ii) Proportion and scale: Modern architectural design is not limited to the scale and proportion of regional variations and styles. To exaggerate the importance of a structure, the change of proportion can be used when the shape is recognizable. Change of proportion might have different angles than the reference but change of scale increases or decreases the overall size of the structure. Repetition is one of the aspects considered for implementing change of scale and proportion to create a harmonious design.
   
   iii) Movement and Stability: Inadequate strength, lack of continuity or togetherness, material decay, dimensional instability, subsoil and foundational inadequacies, alterations and misuse, overall instability are the major causes of subtle movement of structures over a period of time. Watch out for them using correct proportions, quality build materials and possible environmental concerns due to seasonal change and change of purpose.
   
   iv) Rhythm and Balance: Consistency in the design is achieved through repetition, patterns and rhythm. Random, regular, alternating, flowing and progressive are the types of rhythms observed in design. When elements are in a rhythm in a cohesive manner, they look put together. Balance is the point of focus that attracts the eye. A great design understands that rhythm needs to look perfect with the environment and surroundings.
   
   v) Contrast: Most used in interior decoration, contrast in design emphasizes a point of interest. For instance, there are product ads that mute the surroundings in monochrome and put an emphasis on the product by showing it coloured. Similarly, contrasting color palette, patterns and more establish a piece of architecture into art.
   
   vi) Unity: Bringing semantic, functional and visual integrity into a space is called unity. It is often the most important indicator of a place being well put together. Texture, color, tone, direction and proportion, solid and void, form and shape are seven design principles of unity. Make sure to comply with your structure unity.
   
   vii) Emphasis: Achieve visual emphasis through contrast, isolation, absence of focal point, placement and repetition. Size, location and shape of your structure are the major influencers when it comes to achieving emphasis. To draw attention of the viewer to certain structures and objects, designers make use of lines, shapes, colors, textures, mass, balance, proximity, alignment, repetition, contrast, white space and more. This creates exactly what we aim for.
3. Style of Design:
   
   i) Modern: It puts stress on form over functionality and ornamental decoration. Clean lines, glass walls, large windows, modern materials, asymmetrical designs are the main characteristics of modern design.
   
   ii) Art Deco: Geometric ornate patterns and stylized forms made out of man made materials is the Art Deco movement of the 1920’s and 1930’s which is still popular today.

iii) Minimalist: Completely eliminates redundant materials. Emphasizes more on functionality and stability.

iv) Farmhouse: It is a contemporary style architecture with utmost practicality and comfort using readily available materials.

v) Mid-century modern: Clean simple lines with honest use of materials is a mark of American mid-century modern style from the 1950’s.

vi) Victorian: Making ornate patterns rich in color, shape and texture is typical to Victorian style architecture from Queen Anne’s reign. Making everything look royal is part of this style including Gothic, Rococo, Renaissance with eclectic revivals.

vii) Scandinavian: Making use of natural light, clean lines, neutral color makes this style minimalist and simplistic.

viii) Tudor: Generous amounts of half timber used in the detailing work of buildings but less ornate than the Victorian buildings form Tudor architecture.

4. Functional utility:
   If the space will be a financial center, shopping space, commercial complex, hospital, garage, entertainment arena, multiplex or something else is a question. Because you must remain open for the future possibilities, having a design to accommodate any changes made later on is important.
5. Ease of construction and timeline:
   If the project at hand has a very steep timeline and you have a specific skill set of manpower available to construct your project, consider the skillset of the manpower and easy to work materials that last long. Just because something is made quickly does not mean it should be made in substandard quality. Utilize your construction budget wisely and make choices that are going to make your structure last longer. Allow natural flow of air to ventilate and cool places while constructing in hot climates. For colder climates, make sure to get well insulated windows, doors and openings. Using sustainable materials easily available in the surroundings reduces the carbon footprint and is a way to go when it comes to creating a work of art loved by all.

Final Thoughts:
There are many factors that influence a great design. The inspiration comes from the five most important aspects of architectural design viz. material science, elements of great design, style of design, functional utility, ease of construction and the timeline. Whereas, interior decoration also depends on the same aspects, we make living spaces more compatible to live than ever before. For further information and enquiries on architectural design and interior decoration of your project, reach out without hesitating to United International Decor Bahrain.