Levels of Architecture That Are Invisible to the Eye

Structure

• Architects must provide adequate structure to allow a building to stand indefinitely, but the structural members are usually hidden or downplayed by the development of interior and exterior spaces. The architect envisions a building as a container, formed by the use and function of the spaces. This produces a solid and void inversion, and the architect does not design the material structure, but the space within the walls. To the architect, the air and space of the interior is a mass to be sculpted, creating architecture.

Environmental Systems

• Mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems are almost always hidden in the walls and floor systems of a building. However, these systems are probably the most important parts of a building for the inhabitants' comfort. Without mechanical and plumbing systems, a building's interior atmosphere would be physically uncomfortable and individuals would not be able to wash their hands, go to the restroom or drink water. The lack of electrical systems would be devastating to contemporary inhabitants, denying the use of lighting at night, computers and most other consumer electronic products. Think about losing power or having a water main break, and you will realize how important the environmental systems are, though they are invisible to the eye.

Proportion and Scale

• Architects use spatial proportions to define structural volumes. The ratio of the length, width and height of a structure and its interior spaces are composed to fit within a proportional system that is comfortable to humans. Although most people never think about this, the proportion and scale of a structure defines the way individuals use a space. Furthermore, the scale of architectural spaces and volumes affects the psychology of the inhabitant. Large, monumental spaces project power and strength, making the individual feel small and part of a larger group. Diminutive, small-scale structures perceptually transfer power and ability to the individual.

Symbology and Style

• Popular fiction in the recent past has highlighted a very ancient aspect of architecture that has remained invisible to most people -- symbolism of objects and ornaments. Although elements of a structure do not tease the inhabitants with clues to hidden cults or ancient mysteries, as described in fictional works, the elements and ornaments of buildings do provide nearly subliminal cues to the purpose of the structure. For example, banks are almost always designed with classical columns and a pediment. This conveys strength, security and longevity to the user, stating that the bank will last indefinitely. All structures have a symbolic level that is hidden to most people. As an exercise, look at any architecture critically, and try to think about why the elements of the building exist or appear as they do. You will find each aspect of the building is part of a greater, sometimes ancient story about humanity.