Zehra A.’s Post

A ‘Manifesto’ is a document that outlines core beliefs and a power plan for future change and action, often used to advocate for political, artistic, or social change. “So just exactly what is Manifesto House?” I asked the curator, writer, and the Director of the Farrell Center at Newcastle University, Owen Hopkins, whose new and sensational book, The Manifesto House: Buildings that Changed the Future of Architecture, was recently published by Yale University Press. “Manifesto houses,” he answered, “are those very rare houses that are not simply the reflection of prevailing ideas, methods or ideologies, but act as sites for innovation, for new ideas and new ways of doing things – whether structural, material, spatial or representational.” Manifesto houses, we learn from this fascinating book, are not simply beautiful, iconic, chic, or created by celebrated architects. They are, rather, structures conceived to reflect and to embody whole new agendas. They are the substantial expression of the art of architecture like no other. Aside from identifying the Manifesto House, Hopkins offers his readers new and inspiring ways of looking at architectural history, promoting us to think differently about design and leading us to identify the elements that make architecture great. He was my guest at the opening of the fall series, ‘Design and Architecture Masterpieces.’ https://lnkd.in/eVYCuyMd Yale University Press Owen Hopkins

How Art Influences Architectural Design Art and architecture have always been deeply connected. Architecture is often described as the mother of the arts, because it combines function, structure, and aesthetic expression. Art influences architecture in multiple ways—conceptually, visually, emotionally, and culturally. Below is a complete breakdown: 🖼️ 1. Art Shapes Concept & Vision Art encourages architects to think beyond pure function and explore: Form & abstraction (e.g., Zaha Hadid’s fluid forms inspired by abstract painting) Symbolism & meaning (e.g., cultural motifs, narrative-driven design) Emotion & atmosphere Creating spaces that “feel” a certain way, like serene, powerful, playful. Architecture is not just shelter—art transforms it into an experience.

🏛 The Power of Symmetry in Design Symmetry has always been one of architecture’s purest expressions of balance, order, and beauty. From the timeless façades of classical buildings to modern minimalist forms, symmetry brings harmony and calm to the viewer’s eye. In my work, I’ve found that even the smallest alignment — a centered axis, matching proportions, or balanced openings — can transform a design from ordinary to elegant. 👉 True symmetry isn’t about repetition — it’s about creating emotional balance through proportion and intent. #Architecture #Design #Symmetry #Proportion #Aesthetics #DigitalArchitecture #AngularityStudio

Explore the evolution of Matt Smith artist studio through a detailed snapshot of its on-site development—a project that exemplifies ALTER Architects’ commitment to crafting environments where art and architecture converge. Conceived as both a functional craft making-workspace and a contemplative retreat, the studio articulates a refined dialogue between light, material, and landscape. Through its integration of natural illumination, spatial layering, and textural sensitivity, the design transcends the conventional boundaries of a working studio. It becomes instead a site of perpetual exchange between the artist and their surroundings—a framework in which architecture is not merely a backdrop to creativity but an active participant in its unfolding. The project illustrates how spatial design can elevate creative practice, framing artistic exploration within a structure that responds to, and is shaped by, the rhythms of place and imagination. #MattSmith #MattSmithArtistStudio #ALTERArchitects #CreativeSpaces #SussexArts #ArtistStudio

The Hidden Math of Classical Columns | Architecture Insights (Part 2) Have you ever noticed that classical columns aren’t perfectly straight? That subtle curve — called entasis — is an optical illusion that makes columns appear taller and more elegant. In this Part 2 of my series, we explore: The three main classical orders: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian How column spacing sets rhythm and mood Why small design details can change how a space feels Architecture combines math, aesthetics, and psychology — and it influences how we experience spaces, even today. I’m a realtor with a background in architecture, and I love exploring the stories buildings tell. 💬 Follow for Part 3, where we’ll dive deeper into rhythm and proportion in design. #Architecture #Design #Columns #Modernism #Postmodernism #RealEstate #RealtorLife #ArchitecturalDesign #Entasis #BayAreaHomes

Rethinking Connection — Phenomenology and Biomimicry in Architecture Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how differently we can approach connection in architecture — not just between buildings and their context, but between people, place, and purpose. Two theories that have always stood out to me are Phenomenology and Biomimicry. Though they emerge from very different origins, they share a common intent: to make architecture feel alive — emotionally, spatially, and environmentally. Phenomenology reminds us that architecture is not only about what we see, but about what we feel. The texture underfoot, the scent of materials, the sound of air moving through space, the shifting light across a surface — these sensory layers give buildings depth, emotion, and memory. They create places that feel grounded and human. Biomimicry, by contrast, looks to nature as a guide for how things work. It explores how ecosystems adapt, self-regulate, and sustain — how a termite mound cools itself, how leaves capture light, or how coral structures grow in balance with their environment. It’s a reminder that intelligent design already exists all around us. One engages the senses and spirit, the other the logic and systems of nature. But when these two perspectives converge — when a design both feels right and functions naturally — we achieve architecture that is meaningful, adaptive, and enduring.For me, that’s the essence of good design across every typology: spaces that respond like nature, resonate like memory, and remain relevant because they belong. #Architecture #DesignPhilosophy #Phenomenology #Biomimicry #UrbanDesign #SustainableArchitecture #SenseOfPlace #DesignThinking #ArchitectureAndNature

Rediscovering Design Through Reflection – Fabian Tan’s Talk at Niro Ceramic Group During his talk titled “Redux”, architect Fabian Tan shared his journey of returning to the essence of design to look back in order to move forward. From his early days crafting by hand to his explorations in art and architecture, Fabian reflected on how design is not only about form and function, but also emotion, memory, and the connection between people and space. Drawing inspiration from Japanese simplicity and the balance of light and nature, his projects like the Lahorn House, Tessera House, and CC House embody the beauty of proportion, restraint, and transformation, where even light becomes a material. His message to fellow designers: Go back to your roots. Let function express intention. And always design with feeling, not just precision. #NiroCeramic #fabiantanarchitect #architects #Design

The WOW Factor: Quantifying Emotional Impact in Architectural Space This study explores how architectural form and lighting contribute to emotional responses often described as the “wow” factor in interior and spatial design. Using the Pantheon in Rome as a case study, the research investigates how variations in ceiling height and luminance influence affective experience and spatial perception. Participants viewed two-minute animated simulations of the Pantheon under four experimental conditions combining high/low ceiling and light/dark transitions. Emotional responses were measured using the PANAS Likert Scale, complemented by think-aloud protocols that captured verbalized impressions of awe, arousal, and spatial coherence. Preliminary results suggest that high-ceiling and light-to-light transitions evoke stronger positive arousal and spatial engagement compared to darker or lower-ceiling conditions. The study contributes to understanding how perceptual and environmental factors shape users’ affective experience, offering new insights into evidence-based design and the intentional use of form, light, and proportion in architecture. Researchers: Newton D’Souza, Sam Moshaver, Armin Mostafavi

Barcelona-based architects Peris+Toral, winners of the 2024 RIBA International Award, discuss their latest projects. Peris+Toral Arquitectes will present their approach to addressing the climate and housing emergencies within a framework of holistic sustainability. Their work highlights the interrelation between environmental, economic, and social dimensions in developing architectural solutions. Key strategies include “opening up” buildings through thermodynamic spaces that enhance bioclimatic comfort, “reducing” material and resource use following the three-R rule to minimise embodied impact, and “sharing” spaces to foster social interaction and collaborative economies. These principles are illustrated through a selection of recent projects that demonstrate how architecture can be viable, sustainable, and equitable. #museumofbrutalistarchitecture #MoBA #architecture #brutalism #museum #culture #heritage #arts #modernism #design #equality #education #learning #concrete #betonbrut #brutalistarchitecture #brutalist #social #love #beauty #metabrutalism #modernist #style #history #architectural #socialist #modern #architect #contemporary Visit BIO WHAT’S ON for Link to event or visit Eventbrite to book Link: https://lnkd.in/eUcUDXg8 https://lnkd.in/ewbNiBQR

 🎄 Beyond the Box: When Architecture Becomes Art These two concepts illustrate the incredible potential when designers break free from conventional geometry. This is not just construction; it's sculpture on a massive scale. From the fluid, connected towers (Image 1) that mimic natural forms, to the single, dramatic, eye-like pavilion (Image 2) that commands attention, these structures challenge our definition of a "hall" or "building." They are designed to evoke emotion, draw visitors, and become instant landmarks. In an industry often driven by efficiency, these projects prove that iconic design and structural innovation can and should coexist. #ArchitecturalDesign #IconicArchitecture #Innovation #Biomorphic #StructuralEngineering