What is Simplicity?
Short Answer:
The antidote to excess.
Long Answer:
By the 1990s, the hunt for originality was being called “the usual unusual.” The journal that coined the phrase wanted to see more of “the usual unusual,” that is, an architecture that charges ordinary buildings with an extraordinary energy. That is difficult. Simplicity requires a wealth of variety if it is to avoid being banal. Providing an optimized frame for the simple life has been a primary challenge for architects of every era. This search is related to the simplicity of standarization, but real-world problems are seldom simple enough to be resolved with prefabricated solutions.
Simplicity is often overlooked in architecture, but it can be a powerful tool for creating beautiful and functional buildings. When executed correctly, simplicity can add elegance and serenity to a design, making it more timeless and enduring. This is the idea behind minimalism in architecture.
Minimalism in architecture is all about stripping away the unnecessary and focusing on the essentials. It's about finding the beauty in simplicity and creating spaces that are uncluttered and serene. This approach is the opposite of the ornate and elaborate designs that were popular in the past, which often left spaces feeling heavy and overwhelming.
One of the main benefits of simplicity in architecture is that it creates a sense of calm. Minimalist designs are often characterized by clean lines, a neutral color palette, and an absence of clutter. This simplicity helps to create a sense of order and balance, which can be soothing and calming for the people who use the space.
Another benefit of simplicity in architecture is that it allows the materials and textures to take center stage. When there is less visual noise, the materials and textures used in the design become more prominent. This can help to create a sense of warmth and connection to the natural environment, as well as add an interesting and unique aesthetic to the space.
Simplicity in architecture also allows for flexibility. Simple designs are often more adaptable to changing needs and styles, making them more timeless in terms of design. It also allows for a more efficient use of space, which is especially important in today's world where space is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive.
Designing a simple yet elegant building requires a deep understanding of the site, the context, and the client's needs. As architects, it's our job to understand the context of the site and the client's needs and goals. By doing this, we can create designs that are not only simple but also responsive and appropriate for the context.
In conclusion, simplicity in architecture is a powerful tool that can be used to create beautiful and functional buildings. Minimalism in architecture is about stripping away the unnecessary and focusing on the essentials, which can lead to a sense of calm, an emphasis on materials and textures, and a timeless design. As architects, it's important to understand the context and the client's needs and goals to create designs that are simple yet elegant.
