Which Architectural Style Are You?

Architectural styles have their own personalities and character traits that echo our own. So, if you were a design style, which one would you be? Take the test below to find out. 

A style that grew out of 20th century modernism in the post-war period. Characterised by large swathes of poured concrete and minimalist construction, Brutalist buildings favour structural elements over decorative design. There are no frills, just angles, shapes, a monochrome colour palette – not to everyone’s taste but being reassessed. Visit London’s Barbican Centre for a classic example of the style.    

This German art school was in operation for a very short period, from 1919 to 1933, but had a huge impact. More of a design concept than an architectural style, the idea was to marry aesthetics with everyday function. It was one of the driving forces behind modernist architecture before being forced to close by the Nazi regime. Bauhaus buildings include Bauhaus Dessau.      

Influenced by the Romanesque period, the main motif of Gothic architecture is the pointed or ogival arch. Originally popular from the 12th to 16th centuries it has undergone periodic revivals and remains popular around the world to this day. Examples of Gothic architecture include Chartres Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. 

First appearing in France before World War I, Art Deco had a huge cultural influence across the design of buildings, fashion, cars, boats and even everyday objects like vacuum cleaners. It combined modern styles with fine craftsmanship and the best materials to represent glamour and forward-thinking attitudes. New York’s Chrysler Building is perhaps the ultimate statement. 

Commonly used in churches and palaces to reflect the glory of God or the wealth of the owner, Baroque was all about showing off. It spread across Europe throughout the 17th century, taking the basic elements of Renaissance architecture and turning them all the way to the max. Check out Smolny Cathedral in Russia to see what we mean. 

Classical denotes buildings designed according to the principles of Greek and Roman architecture from classical antiquity. Different styles of classical architecture have existed over the centuries, with a major revival during the Italian Renaissance. The style dominated much of Western architecture until the Second World War and is still a major influence today.

The idea was to take new and innovative technology and materials and use them in the construction of buildings. Emerging in the first half of the 20th century and becoming more popular after the Second World War, Modernist buildings feature prominent use of glass, steel and concrete. The Empire State Building is perhaps the best known example.