Awe in Architecture

Wonders of the built world

A few years ago my sister came for a visit. We took a quick drive down Interstate 95 to explore Philadelphia.

As we walked around, she asked about one of the buildings. I quickly filled her in, “Oh, that building, that’s history.”

I could tell she didn’t think my answer was sufficient. “And that one, it’s history too. And, there is more history right over there.” I pointed to all of the buildings we could see from our small spot on the sidewalk where we stood.

Her puzzled expression was mixed with a little bit of annoyance. So, in my defense, I added, “This is a free tour, it requires you to do some of your own research.”

We laughed and I realized it was official, I was not an architecture buff. I was actually not very interested in the built world.

Awe

Nature always won over architecture as my go-to source of awe. Through the pandemic, I spent countless hours photographing the natural details of the world in my local parks and even in my own backyard.

Maybe I am nature obsessed because I grew up in a small town that is mostly forest area, islands, and lakes. Two-story buildings are typical in the small tree-filled town, but there are only a few three-story buildings, nothing taller. Buildings just haven’t been of interest to me, except the log home my dad is building. His talent and woodworking skills are awe-inspiring.

A Shift

I recently made a return visit to Bartram's Garden on my way home from work. To my surprise, the detail in the architecture of the Bartram House caught my attention in a different way than it has in the past. I began to feel a shift in my mind. A new appreciation.

I wondered about the construction of this building. I couldn’t quite wrap my mind around how this was possible in the 1700s. It’s not like there were pallets of curved rock being dropped off at the worksite. Who thought of this elaborate design? I was filled with wonder and awe, inspired by architecture.

From my recent studies of awe, I recalled the gist of these wise words:

Architectural wonders reflect the ingenuity of the human spirit and exemplify what’s possible through creativity, imagination, and determination. I encourage you to seek out opportunities to feel awestruck through this medium of creativity and to mindfully savor these moments. -Jonah Paquett, PsyD

As I continued on my journey to the waterfront, I had another opportunity to experience awe from architecture.

In the distance, the Philadelphia skyline reflected the beautiful blue of the day. Seeing the contrast between the Bartram House and those modern designs in the center of the city sparked an interest I have never felt for buildings.

When I left the garden, I drove toward the city. The first vantage point that caused a slight gasp was a closer view of the skyline.

It almost looks like the clouds are part of the building design below on the left. My awe deepened as nature and architecture blended.

The closer I got to the tallest buildings, the more interesting perspectives and wonders unfolded.

Then, I spotted City Hall with William Penn Standing proud on the very top. You could walk around and around this building and still not notice all of the intricate detail. The base fills an entire city block. It was the tallest habitable building in the world in 1894. I took a moment to imagine the world at that time. Again, how was this possible so far in the past?

I also found some of the more modern architecture equally beautiful. This grayish-blue building in the middle below almost looked like it was a photo before I took the photo. It didn’t look real. The birch tree grove on the left side of the door and the wood detail framing the windows create a natural vibe that made it even better in my mind.

More Architecture

Thanks to my good friend Google and its algorithm, after a few architecture searches, architecture now fills my feed. My new interest in architecture has brought me to discover so many different styles. I really like the trend toward wood as a more carbon-friendly building material. I am glad to see there are a lot of nature-inspired architects.

Google has also pointed me toward some really interesting vacation rentals like treehouses and elaborate cabins that are made almost entirely of glass. I can’t believe I have found architecture to be so awe-inspiring that I am considering planning travel around it.

I have to say, I have now experienced more awe from architecture in the past month than I have in my whole life. I have even learned more about the history of some of the buildings in Philadelphia.

Maybe I should invite my sister back for a visit. I might be a much better tour guide now, still for free.

Thanks for reading! I hope the culture, history, and power of human hands and minds bring everyone's experiences with architecture to awemazing new heights.

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