Modern architecture was shaped by new materials and techniques developed with the industrial revolution from the early 20th century onwards. In this period, steel, wrought iron and glass became the three main materials that revolutionised the aesthetics and functionality of buildings. These materials increased the creative freedom of architects, allowing them to create iconic structures that defined the skylines of modern cities.
Steel is the backbone of modern architecture. Thanks to its high strength and flexibility, it became possible to build large structures with large spans. Pushing the limits of traditional materials, steel has especially enabled the rise of skyscrapers. Structures such as the Empire State Building in New York and the Willis Tower in Chicago are examples of how powerful a tool steel is in architecture.
Wrought iron is another important material used for both aesthetic and structural purposes. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, decorations made of wrought iron added an elegant and artistic touch to buildings. The Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the best-known examples of the use of this material. The fine detailing and artistic flexibility provided by wrought iron ensured the continued importance given to ornamentation in modern architecture.
Glass is one of the most distinctive elements of modern architecture. Large glass surfaces have enabled buildings to establish a more open relationship with the outside world. By allowing natural light to enter the interiors, glass facades both increased energy efficiency and added spaciousness to living spaces. Modern buildings such as The Shard in London or the Reichstag building in Berlin demonstrate how glass has revolutionised architecture.
glass, as characteristic materials of modern architecture, have redefined the form and function of buildings. Thanks to these materials, architects can now work more freely not only with structural imperatives, but also with aesthetic and environmental factors. As a result, modern architecture has become an art form that transcends the boundaries of the past and shapes the cities of the future.
glass, as characteristic materials of modern architecture, have redefined the form and function of buildings. Thanks to these materials, architects can now work more freely not only with structural imperatives, but also with aesthetic and environmental factors. As a result, modern architecture has become an art form that transcends the boundaries of the past and shapes the cities of the future.
