Is Iconic Architecture for the Rich and Famous?

When we think of iconic architecture, we tend to imagine the palaces, and grand estates of the past.

Historically, these buildings were built as a symbol of wealth and power, and merely for the wealthy and influential aristocracy. We have evolved since, but the question arises whether architecture still is a privilege of the elite few, or has it become accessible to a wider audience? Let’s have look at how architecture has evolved from what it once was, and how religious and political power has played a part in shaping our buildings.

Architecture – Once a Symbol of Power

Architecture has throughout history reflected the values and hierarchies of the societies that created it and were funded by rulers. Kings and religious institutions built to immortalise either themselves, or to demonstrate their power.  From the ancient pyramids to palaces, churches and mosques, we can trace the influence that the rulers had over the architecture. The aristocracy with their entourage inhabited the palaces, and this is where the true power laid, and was reinforced through architecture that symbolised and reinforced it with its grandeur. A perfect example of this is the palace of Versailles, where the ruler Louis XIV built one of the most lavish palaces with an astonishing interior that still today mesmerises us.

Religion and its Influence on Architecture

One of the most influential institutions were the religious ones. The influence that religion has played in architecture cannot be underestimated. Churches and mosques, temples and places of worship were designed to reflect greatness of the divine and were designed to emphasise devotion. Greek and Roman architecture of the past best reflect this grandness with their arches, domes and columns. These classical elements became common over time in homes of the powerful and wealthy to reflect their beliefs.

The Nobles and Commoners

Grand estates were enjoyed by the elite, who would engage the best of architects.  In Europe, architects to the Royals would engage in European tours, to study the architecture in Italy or France, and bring it back to their home countries to suit the local environment. While the nobles and the elite have left their marks on the world with the magnificent dwellings they left behind, we have not preserved as much of the abodes of the common people who lived in humble homes, that had to adhere to function and were shaped by necessity, and the main objective was to provide shelter. The divide between the rich and the poor was obvious and makes one wonder if in larger parts still is in the world we live in today.

Society and Architecture

Society has always determined the architecture that is built. Throughout history, it has been a privilege of the top few of the elite to have their homes designed by architects, but how do we see this today? As life evolves, architecture has become more available for everyone. Although the affordability of luxury homes still represents a small percentage of people, engaging an architect should not be an exclusive privilege for the rich and famous. Engaging an architect has become accessible for a wider part of the population, despite the rise in current building cost. High quality architecture, in the hands of the right architect who could guide you, and design with affordability in mind, is very much a reality today.  A well-designed space, high design standards and the creation of a functional and at the same time aesthetically pleasing home is something everyone engaging an architect deserves. Not engaging an architect could in fact end up costing you more once construction starts.

A good Architect’s Role Today

A Classical Suburban Home by Architeria Architects

Putting everything in context is important. While a smaller percentage of the population never builds a home, everyone still needs a home, and someone must design it. Hence, architecture no longer is a privilege exclusively for the wealthy. A good architect knows how to incorporate design elements that are cost effective, not only to build but to run, and will allow for energy-efficient solutions in their design. While modern architecture often is classified as innovative, reproducing buildings or elements of buildings from the past is sometimes frowned upon, no one is inventing the wheel, and therefore incorporating classical elements to a design today could well create that luxurious space for you, without having to live in a white box.

Luxury Real Estate

Luxury real estate continues to attract the affluent. From modern to acre estates, from reproductions of classical homes to sprawling estates of a Hamptons style, these homes speak to owners seeking opulence, privacy, and unique design. This does not make luxury exclusive to one category. Smaller homes in suburban areas are increasingly becoming more architecturally noticeable, and by good architects incorporating luxurious elements, making high-quality design more widely available.

Townhouse Development by Architeria Architects

It is completely possible to achieve your dream home without breaking the bank. With the right architects and interior designers onboard, with their knowledge and expertise in construction and the cost related to it, their creative use of material selection, adaptable layouts and sustainable design, smaller homes can achieve design perfection with functional and sophisticated design that aims to create elegant and functional spaces that feel luxurious and personalised.

A Classical Townhouse Development by Architeria Architects in Melbourne

While iconic homes were once the exclusive domain of the select elite, today’s world is full of possibilities for people from the wider community to enjoy beautiful and well-designed spaces. With the expertise of skilled architects, the dream of living in a thoughtfully designed home is within reach for many. Architecture has come a long way from being a mere symbol of power and wealth. Today architecture serves as a reflection of the diverse society we live in.

At Architeria Architects we proud ourselves of designing diverse architecture in Melbourne and Sydney, as we believe that everyone should have the right to live in a well-designed home, and all of us should feel like our home is our castle. Allow us to make your dream come true, and entrust us to design your dream home by calling us on 03 98945805 or

02 8003 5200, or drop us a line to info@architeria.com.au

Kate & Mel Gawi

Founders of Architeria Architects