high tech architecture

High-tech architecture, also known as late modernism or structural expressionism, belongs to an architectural style that emerged in the 1970s. The various features of high-tech industries were used as a design to build new buildings.

In this type of architecture a lot of steel and concrete were used. This type of architecture seemed to be a bridge between modern architecture and postmodern architecture. However, it is not yet known where this type of architecture started from and where postmodern architecture ended.

In the 1980s, high-tech architecture began to look different from postmodern architecture. Many of the themes and ideas that originated during post-modern times were added to high-tech architecture.

As you may have experienced brutalism, I must say that structural expressionist buildings also revealed design both inside and outside the house.

If you look at some of the leading practitioners of the style, you’ll find that I would definitely include the British architect Norman Foster, whose work earned him a knighthood, and the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who is also known for his organic, skeletal forms. designs

Buildings that have been designed in this style typically have a transparent glass façade, with the building’s network of support beams exposed behind. If you are looking for the most renowned, famous and easily recognizable building built in this style, you will definitely come across IM Pei’s Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong. The World Trade Center in New York City, although generally considered an International Style building, was originally a Structural Expressionist design due to its load-bearing steel exoskeleton.

Characteristic

The characteristics of high-tech architecture have not really remained unique and have varied a bit, but they have all emphasized technical elements. They mostly included prominent display of the building’s technical and functional components, as well as an orderly layout and use of prefabricated elements. Glass walls and steel frames were also very popular.

To flaunt technical features, they were outsourced, often together with charging devices. If you want to see an example, I must say that you will not find a more illustrious example than the Center Pompidou. The ventilation ducts are prominently displayed on the outer surface. This was a critical design, as previous vents would have been a hidden component inside the building. The means of access to the building is also on the outside, with the large tube that allows visitors to enter the construction.

This type of architecture is very popular nowadays and you will definitely find that they are also more powerful.