Architecture, which mirrors society’s social functioning, culture, and technology, is equally impacted by the dynamic processes of human history. Wars are the most obvious ones. War is linked with architecture in terms of destruction, with technological innovations applied to building construction and destruction.
This blog explains the role of wars in the formation of architecture. It provided historical settings, effects on architectural design and construction methods, and, significantly, the decisive role of architecture in commemorating wars. It will serve as a reminder of these historical events’ lasting influence.
Historical Context: Architecture during and after Wars
Wars serve as poignant illustrations of the dual nature of construction: the destruction of structures and the creation of new ones. Notably, architecture is defensive during conflicts, epitomized by fortresses, bunkers, and the like. These structures, designed for functionality, strength, and the ability to withstand attacks. They showcase the resilience and adaptability of architecture in the face of war.
Post-war reconstruction periods are marked by a drive to adopt new architectural styles and methods, often spurred by the need for rapid construction after disasters.
For example, in post-Second World War Europe, a modernist architectural style emerged. It was characterized by simplicity and functionality and heralded new construction materials like concrete and steel.
Impact of war on architectural styles and construction techniques
Conflict significantly influences the style and methods of structures and designs and can be considered a driver for change. Due to the impact of disputes, constructions, or destructions, the urgent need arises for new construction methods and technologies. This kind of highlighted architecture’s innovative and adaptive nature.
War had a dark influence on architectural philosophy since it led to a shift in style toward practicality rather than beauty. Simple-to-assemble models were more popular following the war because of the need to build dwellings for displaced people as soon as possible. This was particularly true in the post-World War II era, when modernist architecture gained popularity.
There is an aspect of construction techniques that has changed due to war. The condition of constructing properties rapidly and for future hostilities prompted building material and construction innovation. For example, the use of reinforced concrete, solid but flexible, became widespread after the First World War due to artillery shells. It also uses the idea of prefabrication. Prefabrication implies the building is assembled in a short period, as in the case of the Paimio Sanatorium. This technique was widely used after World War II to repair the losses and rebuild necessary buildings.
Notable examples of war-influenced architecture
Several examples of architectural designs resulting from wars are more apparent, demonstrating the effects of war on architecture. An example of such heritage is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, or Atomic Bomb Dome, in Japan.
Image source:wikipedia.org
This Jan Letzel’s design, originally meant to be exhibition hall was the only building to survive near ground zero after the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Today, it offers a symbol of the destructiveness of armed conflict and the strength of people.
Another example is the Berlin Wall, which characterized the Cold War period as much as the Cage characterized the Roman Empire. The Wall was constructed in 1961; it separated East and West Berlin, the two parts that embodied communism and the West divide. Even though the Wall was dismantled in 1989, its relics still exist, creating a vivid picture of the tensions and conflicts of the twentieth century.
The role of architecture in memorizing wars
Architecture preserves these wars by honoring the dead, passing knowledge down generations, and maintaining the message of peace. Many monuments and museums are built to trigger a specific emotional reaction to increase people’s awareness and recall of the past, particularly wartime.
This work is a war memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, in Washington, D.C., designed by Maya Lin. Since the design is not complex, visitors can directly interact with the names of the fallen, enabling people to make better and more profound connections.
Source: researchgate.net
Apart from memorials, museums of wars and conflicts are essential in recreating the past and informing society. For instance, the Imperial War Museum in London contains thousands of authentic pieces from a museum’s collection. That includes illustrations, documents, records, and articles representing the conflicts that involved Britain and the Commonwealth countries.
The museum is a masterful masterpiece that teaches audiences about war history, devastations, and the strength of the human spirit.
Thus, it can be established that there will be new tendencies towards the interaction of war and architecture in the future. New technologies like 3D printing and sustainable materials can enable fresh techniques in constructing and designing structures in war-torn regions. This is also a consequence of the widespread concern for environmental issues and the subsequent focus on constructing well-resistant and environmentally friendly infrastructure.
Future implications of war and architectural development
Source:re-thinkingthefuture.com
The idea of war and conflict is still present; architects will have to work on constructing facilities that can resist the effects of aggression and destruction. As the world has discovered the hard way throughout history, architectural practices will probably consider in the future for peace. The characteristics of function, endurance, and the ability to contribute towards creating a peaceful environment conducive to reconciliation.
Therefore, one can say that war, as both a destructor and a creative environment, indeed influenced the development of architecture. In the future, the characteristics of architecture in establishing the necessary monuments and encouraging peace will be more expected. Architects may help create a future where the building system is robust and promotes a conflict-free environment by looking back at the past and interpreting its lessons.
Further Reading
9 Phases of the Architectural Design Process Explained
Introduction to Isometric Architectural Drawing
Construction Risk Management | Types, Process And Benefits
How to manage Risk in Construction Projects?
BIM in Urban Engineering – Market Dynamics, Restraint, Opportunity & Challenges
