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Popular Architectural Styles and Their Characteristics

Every building and structure is seen different to the common eyes, but they are also different architecturally. But these architectural differences are often not identified by the general observers because it needs architectural knowledge. It is often difficult for common people to understand and differentiate between Bauhaus and modernist architecture, or between Romanesque and Neo-classical structures. However, there are many clues to identify the styles and characteristics to determine various architectures. It is also often necessary to acquire basic knowledge about different architectural styles and their characteristics particularly if you have an intention of constructing your home or any other building or structure. Get in touch with Stendel Reich distribution center architects to get all necessary assistance for constructing your building.

The mid to late 19th century was the Victorian era when various architectural style returned or evolved such as Tudor, Gothic, Romanesque etc. These Victorian styles, as well as, the influences of Middle east and Asia were seen everywhere in most buildings during the industrial revolution. The main features of the Victorian architectural style are elaborate trim with the effect of “Dollhouse”. It also includes bay windows, sash windows, two three-storied buildings, steep mansard roof, asymmetrical shape, wrap porches and bright colour. You can still these types of buildings in the US, UK and Australia. 

The second popular architectural style prevailing since the 7th century basically in the Middle East is the Islamic architecture which varies from region to region mainly in Spain and North Africa and Persia. The best example to mention the style of Islamic architecture is the Mosque which may include the domes, pointed arches and courtyards. Flat surface decorations are given priority in Islamic style because the Koran restricts the representations of three-dimensions. The key features of Islamic style are geometric designs, horseshoe arch, focus on enclosed interiors and spaces in comparison to exterior, and perforated screens. You can distinguish the perfect Islamic style of architecture in Hui Mosque in China.

The Romanesque style of architecture which is also known as the Norman architecture emerged in the late 10th century AD in Europe. The main features of Norman architecture are the rounded arch which you can typically find in the Roman Catholic or Roman Style churches. Along with the rounded arch, you will also find repeated rows of round-hundred arches, cable moulding around doors as you can see in a twisted rope, and floral and foliage stone decoration. However, the Norman style of architectural buildings is rare to find expect a few Roman styles of churches which have yet survived and the best example of Norman architecture is the Porto Cathedral in Portugal.