The book I read to research this post was Architecture for Dummies by Deborah K Dietsch which is a very good book which I borrowed from a library. Architecture or architect designed buildings tend to last longer than buildings done from a straight forward design. Good architecture has to be artistic & have good design as well as be functional. Some developments in architecture include CAD programs for computers many of which are specifically for architecture they also let you roll back your work if you are unhappy with something. Also the use of portland cement instead of lime in the manufacture helps prevent cracking. The invention of steel which has less carbon than its iron counterpart hence it’s stronger also its use in reinforced concrete. This is a frame of steel covered in concrete which allows almost any shape conceivable to be used in building. A good architecture is influenced by eastern design as well as western design. For a good example of western architecture with eastern influences I suggest having a look at Brighton Pavilion. Probably the most famous living architect is Frank Gehry who designed The Gugenhiem in Bilbao among other things. He is often referred to as the other Frank because there used to be an even more famous architect called Frank Lloyd Wright & they are both great architects.
