For award-winning architect, Ken Tate, and architects alike, asking them what makes great architecture is like asking Mozart how to create music. It is, indeed, a subjective question. Almost indescribable – great architecture embodies a sense of clarity to it where everything makes sense.
A few years ago, we sat down with Ken to talk about what distinguishes great architecture from good architecture and wrote this piece: “What Makes Great Architecture?”.
A stimulating read – let us know what your thoughts are!
What is great architecture?
Is great architecture the timeless notion of beauty?
Need it be eternally memorable from creation, obliged to tell a thousand stories?
Must great architecture exhibit bold and purposeful innovation? Should it express its function in an interesting and meaningful way, demanding admiration for its immodest assertion?
Is great architecture a strangely familiar reaffirming of tradition? Expertly crafted to solicit a strong visceral reaction, stirring us at an almost spiritual level?
Does great architecture conform to universal laws of symmetry and proportion? Should it resonate with its surroundings and faithfully appeal to our sense of balance?
According to the ancient Roman architect, Vitruvius, architecture is as much math and science as it is philosophy and art. His famous treatise, De Architectura, outlined three fundamental principles essential for architecture; balanced elements of firmitas, utilitas and venustas. In fact, the same theory still applies to architectural design today.
Likewise, Ken Tate carefully observes truth in Vitruvius’ basic principles by stating great architecture is a harmony of “composition, proportion and materials”, that when combined, exudes a “certain self-confidence.”
Self-described as an intuitive classicist, Tate is the recipient of a Shute Award from the Institute of Classical Architecture and a three-time winner of the Southern Home Award from Southern Progress Corporation. His instinctive and open-minded approach to design has been featured in many magazines including Southern Living, Period Homes and Architectural Digest on numerous occasions; one of which was a steel and glass pool pavilion designed and built in partnership with Tanglewood Conservatories. Widely recognized for his unrestrained imagination and awe-inspiring design aesthetic, Tate’s “creative approach is never quite the same from project to project.”
For Tate and architects alike, asking them what makes great architecture is “like asking Mozart how to create music”. It is, indeed, a subjective question. Almost indescribable – great architecture embodies a sense of “clarity to it where everything makes sense.” Artistic focus and detailed application of design create a balanced and harmonic architectural melody.
Individual to each architect’s imagination, Tate describes architecture “as something beautiful, not meant to show off”. It is quite simply a work of artistic genius. “You just know it when you see it.”
What distinguishes great architecture from good architecture?
This is sometimes difficult to discern. Most often the distinction is found in the smallest design details. It is the conscious consideration and polishing of each design component, such as window sills, panelling styles, door casings, hardware and the like.
“God is in the details.”
Mies van der Rohe
Click the button below to look at a collaboration we did with Ken Tate. Tate’s carefully articulated vision of “old-world” style, paired with Tanglewood’s custom design and expert craftsmanship, inspired the creation of an extraordinary steel and glass pool pavilion. This project is sure to captivate your imagination and inspire your own creativity.
Are you thinking about transforming your home into a luxurious retreat?
Let’s talk about your vision for your next home renovation. Contact us online or at 410.479.4700 x104 to start the conversation.