Mainstream architecture : an examination of the concept in theory and practice

Abstract

In broad perspective architecture can be defined as an art, which evokes pure aesthetic emotions in human beings. A successful art is believed to be more concerned on the qualitative attributes of Architecture rather than on quantitative attributes. In order to adhere to the qualitative vocabulary of architecture: it is essential to cultivate awareness between the reality and our feelings, where the former derives what is essential in our life style. An architectural product may be considered as one that has significant meaning when it can excite the intellect of a person and make him contemplative. The continuing evolution of architecture, has gone through various phases through time; each defining its own mainstream architecture, which changed, or rather developed further towards what is recognized as mainstream architecture today. The orchestration of progression can be regarded as the mainstream attribute of an architectural product, and it is through this phenomenon that a building is able to communicate and evoke meaningful emotions in man.