Arch Architecture is a combination of the architectural planning and designing of buildings and other structures and the process by which this is achieved. Architectural projects, in the simplest material form such as homes, are commonly perceived as works of architecture and as artistic works. The term “architecture” can be interpreted as a “type” of artistic human work, since architecture shares many common qualities with art. One of these common characteristics is the use of space.
The basic elements of architecture are found in nature – the arrangement and distribution of objects to create a working design. Humans are highly creative beings and the use of space in architecture is fundamental to the process of designing buildings. A wide variety of stylistic options are available to architects in relation to the arrangement of objects and spaces within buildings. Arrangement of elements in architecture has become increasingly sophisticated through the development of computer software, allowing architects to manipulate the physical parameters and relationship between objects in architecture with relative ease.
The term “architectural”, according the Merriam Webster’s Dictionary, means “of planning or designing”. In most professional practices, architectural designing is not confined to the design of physical buildings and structures but extends to the whole concept of the built environment. This includes not only the actual design of the building itself, but also the selection of materials used in its construction, the creation of the spaces surrounding the building, the facilitation of people’s movement within the building, the drainage of spaces around the building and so on. Thus architecture is a collective discipline which encompasses the practical application of knowledge in the discipline of building.
The field of architectural theory refers to the areas related to the aesthetic and functional aspects of architecture. Interior design is one aspect of architectural theory. This includes such things as lighting, furniture, fabrics, color, textures, etc. These are normally seen as passive factors, designed to enhance the environment inside the building. Architectural history has shown that the introduction of interior design in architecture was first promoted by Christopher Alexander back in 1801.
Architectural engineering is the term used to describe the process of planning, constructing and maintaining a structure. It is the basis for the designs of buildings and it makes sure that they are designed in a way that is compatible with the surrounding area. The techniques used in architectural engineering include architectural calculations, the use of engineering consultants and the use of structural engineers. The techniques of design of a structure usually include the following: Finding the most profitable location for the building, determining the optimum number of floors, determining the materials to be used in building construction and so on. Structural engineers are responsible for the implementation of the engineer’s ideas in building designs and also play an important role in maintaining the stability of the structure.
The field of applied mathematics is concerned with the analysis, design and implementation of any architectural project. Architectural analysis deals with details such as determining the budget, scheduling and working pattern for the project. Architectural design deals with details such as selecting appropriate materials and colors, preparing the blueprint or building plan, determining the location and orientation of structures, interior design and furniture arrangement and so on. Planning and coordination are the other aspects of the applied mathematics of architecture.