Wales is perhaps a lesser known country in Europe, but the history of the architecture there is a story worth telling. Let’s take a look at Welsh architecture, spanning from the 14th century until present day, and some of the most striking buildings there. There is little evidence for domestic architecture in Wales that predates …
Walter Gropius is synonymous with the Bauhaus period of Modern Design, and has become iconic for various chair designs. His work, however, spanned artcitecture and industrial design, having a massive impact on the period and the design at large. German American architect and educator who, particularly as director of the Bauhaus(1919–28), exerted a major influence …
Greece is home to some incredible architectural history, but when you go, it’s important to have your priorities in mind, and an understanding of the historical background. It enriches the environment with a knowledge of the significance of some of the buildings, and how they played a role in history. Ancient Greek architecture arose in …
You may not know much about Chinese architecture unless you’ve been there, but there is a fascinating history, and striking but subtle beauty to the buildings there. Join me in learning about all things architecture in China! You may have an image in your mind of Chinese architecture that looks like the temples and ancient …
Architecture is a field that has been dominated by men, yet women across the centuries have made significant contributions, innovated, and advanced the field. Read with me to find out about some of the most impactful female architects! There was once a time when there were basically no female architects due to women not being …
Vernacular architecture can be defined as a type of local or regional construction, using traditional materials and resources from the area where the building is located. Let’s look at what this really means, and what it looks like in practice, as well as some important examples of vernacular architecture integrated into modern society. Consequently, this …
Stained glass is an ancient art form, which has definitely become less popular in modern buildings, but remains coveted in antiques. Let’s dive into the history, how it’s done, and some of the most incredible stained glass examples around the world. “Stained glass” refers to glass that has been colored by metallic oxides during the manufacturing …
Swedish design, popularly known as Scandinavian Design, or Scandi, is a distinct aesthetic, but it also does in fact come from a specific region. Read on to discover the history of this Design trend, why it’s so popular, and the defining features that make it what it is! Scandinavian design is about so much more …
Quebec is home to a unique culture, predominantly French-Canadian, but mixed with anglophones and many other cultures and languages. The architecture and design originated in the early settlement of Quebec, and has developed through Mid-Century into the contemporary period. Read on to find out about the history, and some of Quebec’s most iconic designers. …
Man has used brick for building purpose for thousands of years. Bricks date back to 4000 BC, which makes them one of the oldest known building materials. They are such a common part of the built environment around us, so join me in discovering the fascinating history behind this building block of society. A brick …
Charles Eames is a household name in industrial design, perhaps most famous for a few chair designs that have taken on icon status. He was also a filmmaker and architect: let’s take a look at his life, his most famous designs, and perhaps some of his less well know ones. Charles Eames, born 1907 in …
How many different types of copper are there? The material has many applications, and can be used in everything from roofing to candlesticks. Let’s look at the history of copper, how it can be used, and where it comes from! The History of Copper Copper was first used by man over 10,000 years ago. A …
There are so many different types of plastic, it can be hard to wrap your head around. Here’s a guide to all the different categories and types, to give you a complete understanding of plastic! While this may seem like a boring topic, the variance in plastics and the way they are manufactured is actually …
Sustainable architecture is defined by its goal of minimizing negative environmental impact, and perhaps even having a positive one. This, however, can be executed in so many different ways, making it a diverse and dynamic field, with some truly stunning buildings around the world. Sustainable architecture attempts to create a more harmonious relationship between the …
Frank Gehry’s signature curving metal siding has become ubiquitous around the world. He is known for his design of high profile buildings like the Bilbao Museum in Spain. Come discover some of his most spectacular designs, as well as some of his less well known creations. I remember the first time I saw a Frank …
The modern skyscraper is now the dominating feature of the skyline. Its many variations can make any city instantly recognizable with just a glance. Meager in comparison, the 7 and 10 story brick buildings peppered throughout many cities, not long ago would have towered over the existing metropolis. Thanks to the rapid industrialization of the …
The history of St.Peter’s Basilica dates back to the 4th Century, while the modern day one we know was constructed in the 16th century. It is the largest Basilica in the world, and houses some of the world’s most famed historical artworks. Read on to discover the fascinating history behind the building. St Peter’s Basilica …
Stained glass has long been a fundamental element in the design of churches and cathedrals. This art form dates back to 4th century Ancient Rome but has remained a significant art form throughout history. What lead up to the ornate monumental stained glass imagery we see in churches that still stand today, and how is …
You may have heard the term space-age, when referring to funky furniture that, well, looks like its from outer space. What actually defined space age design, and how did it come to be? Keep reading to find out about the history, and and some of the most important pieces from the design movement. Towards the …
If you live in, or have ever travelled to Montreal, Quebec, you will have heard of Expo 67′: an international exposition celebrating Canada’s centennial. Everything from buildings to couches were designed for the Expo, creating a great cultural output that remains an important part of the city’s history and design. The Sixties and Seventies were …