Think of the pyramids of Egypt, the columns of Greece and Rome, the great Gothic cathedrals. Great civilizations leave behind great architecture. When the desire to create something “organic” or whole, is strong, Architects design not only a building and the space around a building, they will also shape the space inside the building. Respected Architects have designed chairs, tables, cabinets and fabrics-objects that lend comfort and pleasure to people’s homes and work spaces. The result ? Architects are using modern techniques and ideas to renew historic buildings across Canada. Public interest in restoring old buildings is as strong as the economic pressure to re-use them. Old buildings add variety to city streets and remind us of our links to the past. Beyond our homes, the community takes shape. Rural or urban, row house or apartment, the home may be used year-round or only for vacations. On festive occasions, they are places of open hospitality. Sometimes they offer privacy and shelter. Homes house the daily activities of families and individuals.
The design or re-design of a home is one of the most fascinating and important things an Architect can do. Why does Architecture matter? There’s no place like home A client may be a family, a school board, a company, a housing authority, a government department or a building contractor. “Clients” are the people who use the services of Architects. Others may be on salary, as employees of government, real estate developers or large corporations. Today’s Architect may practise alone or be part of a small, medium or large firm.