Throughout human history, we have had a tendency to want to separate ourselves
from nature whenever possible. We show a preference for shapes and structures
which show that we have the ability to manipulate our environment to our will.
The shapes of civilization (the cube and the circle) are shapes that have rarely
or never had correlates in nature.
This tendency towards setting ourselves apart is nowhere more evident than
in our architecture. From early hut structures to the very latest fashion house
condos, humans have tended to prefer block shaped dwellings when making their
homes. This occurred despite the fact that other shapes would tend to make more
sense as far as shelter construction is concerned - a fact which we reluctantly
acknowledged when it came to the roof on these structures.
Today, however, an ever-increasing lack of space, along with a subconscious
move to get back to a more natural environment, are redefining the way we see
modern architecture. While the square and the rectangle are still the prominent
shapes in many designs, a metal bender used for homes will be more consistently
applied in order to make angular designs.
In fact, many architects and urban developers agree that angular designs might
just be the way of the future, and this concept is starting to pop up in cities
all over the world. In this series of articles, we are going to take a look
at angular architecture designs all over the world and explore their unique
appeal. First, though, let's take a look at why these designs are destined
to take precedence, whether we're talking about Windsor homes or condos
in Japan.
As we mentioned earlier, the shapes designed by humans tend to separate ourselves
from our natural environment. As angular designs are employed with more frequency,
we are beginning to acknowledge our inescapable connection to the natural world.
A sloping angle blends in a much more natural way with the surrounding landscape
and even the skyline than a block design. Toronto boardwalk homes employing
angular design give the impression of flowing with the winds that blow off of
Lake Ontario rather than standing against it.
Angular designs also work well in places where space is at an absolute premium.
In such an environment, there are two issues. First, there is little room for
further development. Next, the houses that are built tend to be quite small,
and can feel cramped as far as their owners are concerned. Angles allow developers
and builders to work with a smaller space than cube-shaped buildings would.
The offset construction of such structures allow for a little more room both
outside and in. In addition, angles tend to draw the eye in a natural way, so
that spaces look a lot bigger than they actually are. Stark lines impose limits,
whereas tapering ones give the impression of continuation.
Anyone with an interest in modern home design, from those holding a real estate
license to those with a construction permit, should be very interested in the
articles we include in this series. Angular design just might be the wave of
the future as far as home development is concerned.
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