High-tech architecture, also known as late modernism or structural expressionism, belongs to an architectural style that emerged in the 1970s. The various characteristics of high-tech industries were used as design to build new buildings.
In this type of architecture a lot of steel and concrete was 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.
Since you will have experienced brutalism, I have to say that the structural expressionist buildings also revealed the design both inside and outside the house.
If you look at some of the leading practitioners of the style, you’ll find that they 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 and skeletal forms. designs
Buildings designed in this style often have a transparent glass façade, with the building’s supporting beam network 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, while generally considered an International Style building, was originally a Structural Expressionist design due to its load-bearing steel exoskeleton.
Characteristics
The features of high-tech architecture have not really remained unique and have varied somewhat, but all have emphasized technical elements. They mostly included the prominent display of the technical and functional components of the building, and also an orderly arrangement and the use of precast elements. Glass walls and steel frames were also very popular.
To flaunt technical features, they were outsourced, often along 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. Ventilation ducts are prominently displayed on the outer surface. This was a critical design, as the earlier vents would have been a hidden component within the building. The means of access to the building is also on the outside, with the large tube that allows visitors to enter the building.
This type of architecture is very popular today and you will definitely find that they are more powerful as well.