Has Commercial Architecture Forsaken Art in Favour of Function?
The rise in demand for goods and services has positively impacted the development of commercial ventures across the world. According to research, in 2023 alone, a record $5.49 million small businesses were filed. As more businesses launch, the number of commercial buildings grows as well.
While this is great for the economy’s growth, could the strain of constantly drawing building plans and tight deadlines diminish architectural creativity? Here, we’ll look at how the preference for functionality has made it a significant priority over aesthetically pleasing commercial buildings.
The Allure of Art in Commercial Architecture
Like a moth to a flame, the human mind acknowledges beauty. Aesthetics has significantly developed various structures, such as The Egg in Albany, the Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis, and the Dancing House in the Czech Republic. These unique designs have made their region landmarks for tourists and art enthusiasts alike.
Artistic pieces, whether buildings or interior features, define identity, setting the standards of culture and aspirations of individuals. Take, for instance, beautiful havdalah sets silverware from Nadav art.
These pieces are used in ceremonies to mark the end of the Shabbat. Beyond their functionality, they are a source of pride in one’s Jewish heritage and reflect an individual’s commitment to Jewish traditions. And, like the architectural designs mentioned previously, they are beautiful to behold.
The same holds in commercial architecture. A bold design on the exterior and interior can represent a brand’s goals and inadvertently draw potential customers from the curious onlookers who admire the building.
Functionality’s Importance in Commercial Buildings
Beyond how appealing a building appears, its primary purpose is a workspace where daily transactions occur. A functional building is necessary as it maximizes the space available, minimizes energy consumption, optimizes workflows, and, most importantly, prioritizes safety features that can safeguard the wellbeing of its occupants.
Reasons Functionality is Preferred over Art in Commercial Architecture
Economic Factor
Complex art designs can significantly increase construction costs. Materials, renting equipment, and hiring specialized personnel to create these buildings tend to cost more.
Long-term intricate design features may require frequent and specialized maintenance compared to more functional structures, leading to more expenses.
Time Constraints
Architects are often tasked with strict deadlines to create designs for commercial projects. Attempting to create more artistic architectural drawings can extend construction timelines and lead to potential delays.
Practical Considerations
When designing certain building codes, architects must follow certain standards to ensure safety. These standards often align with specific artistic plans, limiting creative freedom.
Accessibility is now paramount in contemporary architecture; people of various ilk, be they elderly, physically impaired, and so on, should be able to access commercial buildings. While aesthetics may be appealing, some features may hinder access to these buildings.
Striking a Balance Between Art and Functionality
Art and functionality both play a role in successful building design. Finding the middle ground between the two can often take time, as functionality is more important.
However, it is essential to recognize the role of aesthetic appeal in architecture and the impact it can have.
By combining both, architects can create buildings that are not only functional but aesthetically pleasing, offering the best of both worlds.
