An Exploration of Traditional Architecture in Modern Times
[Editor’s note: In August local architect Phil Green put
forward to members of Tauranga Historical an illustrated talk on the above
topic. It was not a discussion of old
buildings: it explored reasons why, despite having unlimited technological
freedom, modern architects so often create new buildings intentionally designed
to resemble historical architecture. Because of its relevance to heritage
conservation debate generally, we offer a lightly edited version of it here.]
As one of humanity's oldest forms of cultural expression,
buildings tell stories about the societies that created them. Even though computer modelling now allows
architects to design forms that would have been impossible only decades ago,
they still make use of historical references.
Reasons for this tradition can be found by examining its
historical origins, the social influences and economic motivations that drive
it, and developments in construction techniques. The tradition also has its critics; its continued
use carries some implications for the future.
Creating buildings that imitate earlier styles is not a
modern phenomenon. Throughout history, architects have repeatedly looked
backwards for inspiration. The Renaissance revived the architecture of Ancient
Rome. The Gothic Revival movement of the nineteenth century brought medieval
design back into fashion. The Greek Revival movement spread across Europe, New
Zealand, Australia and North America, where government buildings were
deliberately designed to resemble ancient Greek temples. These styles were not
considered copies. Instead, they represented admiration for earlier
civilisations while adapting them for contemporary society.
Today's historical-style developments continue this
tradition. Architects have a wide repertoire of historical elements they can
use:
- Stone or brick façades
- Symmetrical layouts and classical proportions
- Columns, porticos, decorative cornices and arches
- Timber detailing and decorative ironwork
- Structural features like pitched roofs and traditional window arrangements.
Image courtesy of commons.wikimedia.org | Joe Ross
Although these features can appear to be centuries old, most are manufactured using modern construction techniques. Behind the façade is usually reinforced concrete, structural steel, modern plumbing, elevators, air conditioning and sophisticated earthquake engineering. Therefore, these buildings are historically inspired rather than historically constructed.
One of the strongest arguments for historical architecture is its ability to preserve cultural identity. European cities attract millions of tourists because their streets possess architectural consistency developed over centuries. Many newer developments - including in colonised countries - imitate these environments because visitors associate traditional architecture with authenticity and culture. Some entire towns have been designed using historical styles specifically to attract tourism. Although these places may be relatively modern, visitors enjoy the atmosphere they create
When entirely modern buildings are inserted into historic
districts, many people believe they interrupt this visual harmony. Architects
are therefore asked to design sympathetic buildings that blend with their
surroundings. This approach is especially common in heritage precincts where
planning regulations require new developments to complement existing
streetscapes. Rather than competing with historic landmarks, new buildings
become part of a continuous architectural story.
Numerous surveys have shown that the public often prefer
traditional architecture to highly modern designs. Psychologists suggest that
humans naturally appreciate buildings containing patterns, symmetry and
ornament. Traditional buildings also tend to include features at human scale:
visible windows, decorative entrances, textured materials, clearly defined
roofs.
Glass towers, while impressive, can sometimes feel anonymous
or intimidating. Traditional architecture often creates a greater sense of
comfort and belonging. Supporters of today's revival architecture see it as
continuing a tradition that has existed for thousands of years, and argue that cities should prioritise beauty
over novelty. If people enjoy traditional buildings more, architects should
design environments people actually want to live in.
Financial considerations can play a major role.
Historic-looking buildings often command higher property values. Luxury
developments frequently incorporate classical architectural elements because
they communicate permanence, stability and prestige. Hotels designed to
resemble historic mansions often attract visitors seeking a distinctive
experience. Retail developments may re-create historic streets because
customers generally spend more time in visually attractive environments.
Developers understand these preferences. If buyers prefer traditional homes,
developers build traditional homes. Architecture therefore reflects market
demand as much as artistic vision. For developers, architecture is therefore
not only an aesthetic but also a commercial strategy.
Left to right: before the 2011 earthquakes; rebuilding; and re-completed.
Not everyone supports historical revival architecture. Critics argue that it imitates rather than innovates; that architecture should represent its own era, and that false historical appearance may confuse future generations. Certainly, decorative features can increase construction costs. Many modernist architects believe “honesty in architecture” means expressing modern materials rather than disguising them. They argue steel should look like steel—not stone.
Another criticism of older architecture is that historic buildings are often inefficient. However, modern historical buildings usually combine traditional appearance with sustainable technology. Thermal, energy and water conservation measures mean architects no longer need to choose between beauty and sustainability. Modern engineering allows both.
Although historical buildings may appear handcrafted, today's construction methods are highly advanced. Technologies such as computer-aided design (CAD,) Building Information Modelling (BIM), laser-cut stone, 3D-printed mouldings, prefabricated wall systems, earthquake-resistant steel frames and fire-resistant materials dramatically reduce construction costs while maintaining historical appearance. A building that once required decades to complete can now be finished within a few years.
Artificial intelligence, robotics and digital fabrication are changing architecture rapidly. Future historical buildings that appear to be almost identical to buildings constructed centuries ago may be constructed using autonomous robots and 3D-printed stone. At the same time, architects continue searching for ways to balance innovation with cultural heritage. Rather than replacing history, modern architecture increasingly seeks to build upon it.
The growing popularity of new buildings designed to look historical reflects a desire to connect the past with the present. These buildings preserve cultural identity, satisfy public preferences, enhance tourism, and often provide economic benefits, while incorporating modern technologies that improve safety, comfort and sustainability. Although debate continues between supporters of modernism and advocates of traditional design, historical-inspired architecture demonstrates that progress does not necessarily require abandoning the past.
Instead, architects are finding ways to combine centuries of architectural knowledge with contemporary engineering, creating buildings that honour history while serving the needs of modern society. However, historical significance is not always determined by architectural excellence alone. Sometimes ordinary buildings become treasured because of the stories they hold. Schools, community centres, workplaces, and homes can all gain historical value when they become connected to important evens, cultural movements, or shared memories. Heritage is a much about people as it is buildings.
Looking further ahead, future generations may even preserve examples of modular housing, adaptive reuse projects, and resilient structures designed to cope with rising sea levels and changing climates. These buildings may tell the story of how communities responded to some of the greatest challenges of our era.
Ultimately, the architecture that becomes historic will be
the architecture that best represents who we were. It will reflect our
innovations, our struggles, our successes, and our vision for the future. As architects,
planners, builders, and citizens, we have a responsibility to consider not only
what we build today, but what legacy we leave for tomorrow. The historical
architecture of the future is already being designed, constructed, and lived in
around us. The buildings we create today are not merely structures of the
present – they are the heritage of future generations.
Image credits
All images except the photo of the Auckland Municipal Destructor and Depot
were sourced by Phil Green.
References and captions
These were contributed by the editor.
[1] For further
discussion, see https://www.archdaily.com/1034953/the-cayala-paradox-how-are-private-districts-shaping-public-space-design-in-guatemala
[2] For further information, see https://poundbury.co.uk/
[3] An exponent of architectural practice using artificial
intelligence: see https://www.timfu.com/tim
[4] for a practical example of a biophilic structure within
an existing city, see https://journalofbiophilicdesign.com/journal-of-biophilic-design/rotterdam-rocks-a-new-biophilic-landmark-for-rotterdam
