Topic > The link between colonization and modernism in architecture

While colonization is often characterized by the establishment of a central power that defines the social, spatial and economic processes of a society, it is only the basis on which societies begin to develop their own identities. “In a world where institutions are reflected in building typologies” (Blundell Jones, Peter, 2002, 241), we recognize the importance of spatial categorization and architectural design in establishing hierarchies relevant to subsequent societies. Through the comparison of various texts, this essay will explore the relationship between colonialism and subsequent developments of societies in the form of architectural styles regarding cultural influences, particularly in the period of modernity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Modernism is an international movement that emerged as a response to global changes and social and technological advances. Emerging in the 1920s, the architectural style emphasizes functionality, simplicity and rationality; he defined a new way of thinking relevant to the cultural advances of the time. The development of modernism seemed to spark controversy where, according to Peter Blundell Jones, suddenly, "the local food market was largely an anachronism", posing the question of "what public space is or could be... as we have witnessed to the erosion of its ancient forms.” Furthermore, Jones also introduces the environment as a major vehicle of change, arguing that “the planet simply cannot sustain endless reconstruction” (Blundell Jones, Peter, 2002, 244). realized the urgency and need to engage with the existing. The value of place and cultural identity, concepts established at the time of colonization, have remained relevant and useful in this period of modernity in which societies have grasped the need to maintaining what was pre-existing. A good example of this is the General Post Office in Sydney, Australia Built in 1830, the Sydney GPO holds important significance as it reflects the history of its programmatic services dating back to its conception. With the potential of archaeological discoveries related to construction, lifestyle, etc., we can interpret suitable ways of conservation. The ability of these buildings to educate us about the past is incredibly valuable and highlights the importance of engaging with the pre-existing structures that inform us of our country's past. Alternatively, in “The Encyclopedia of Australian Architecture”, Philip Goad and Julie Willis represent an alternative narrative to modernism, whereby to understand how to engage positively with the new Architecture, we must be “informed by the practices and understandings of the first inhabitants of the continent." This philosophy differs from Jones' ideas mentioned above, which implied that the harmful effect of architecture was motivated by supply and demand “under the influence of global capitalism” (Blundell Jones, Peter, 2002, 244). In contrast, Goad and Wells advocate for an architecture that recognizes colonialist characteristics and indigenous presence. Furthermore, the 1851 gold rush and the emergence of modernism saw Australia change massively and subsequently experience major expansion, resulting in the eradication of much of the existing architecture. This caused tension between architects interested in pursuing the work of modernism and those who advocated the preservation of colonialist styles. Also often referred to as the International Style, modernism continued in Australia with a new wave of immigrant architects championing a new sense of design sophistication. This is emblematic in the project.