Architecture I adore

I love architecture and I’m frequently asked which building is my favourite, however, I am much more fascinated, by homes, by property.

So, in no particular order, some of my favourite examples are listed below:

Louisiana plantations:

 

You will find these beauties dotted around the Southern USA. They truly are one of the South’s pride factors, filled with rich, unique history and perfect for those long hot summers which was a big factor taken into consideration for these plantations.

This type of architecture was inspired by Creole cottages. French as well as Spanish architecture and design left their imprint due to colonisation.

 

A-frame:

Not until the 50’s did this whacky design really become popular especially as the ideal shape for a holiday home. This weird and wonderful design has been inspired by simple triangular huts from the ancient world. Andrew Geller is the architect credited into turning these basic ancient structures into luxurious and spacious property, suitable for the modern resident. Another benefit – this is a really cheap design to bring to life!

 

Chinese:

The main reasons to love architecture from China are the spectacular roofing as well as vibrant colours.

Swiss chalets

 

 

Swiss chalets are my favourites. I adore the dark exterior, as well as the shape and balconies.

I can imagine the interior also being dark, but cozy. Perfect for spending those freezing winter evenings in front of a roaring fire with a horror movie on in the background and plenty of marshmallows!

 

 

 

Whistler – Canada’s Winter Wonderland

In the heart of British Columbia lies the quaintly named resort town that is Whistler.

The mountainous scenery surrounded by rich and lush green forests is simply breath-taking. Fill your lungs completely with the hearty fresh air, go hiking along well-beaten pathways or just immerse yourself in one of the countless majestic lakes around you.

Take a stroll through the charming whistler village. Whether you’re looking for a unique retail experience, something to feast your tongue upon or an open air concert, the village is sure to leave you with a memory or two.

The architecture of local lodges and luxurious hotels is also something to be appreciated and is typical of a ski resort. Beautiful and towering log structures with modern features but homely characteristics.

Gardening – Inspired by Islam

‘Allah has promised to the believing men and women, gardens, beneath which rivers flow’ (Quran)

The Islamic garden is created to represent paradise, to remind one of paradise. There are endless passages in the Quran describing heaven as a garden. ‘But the God fearing shall be amongst gardens and fountains’. But the idea of paradise being a garden is actually an idea that pre-dates Abrahamic religions and goes right back to the Sumerian period of ancient Mesopotamia. In fact it was the Persians who were some of the first peoples to cultivate walled gardens and parks.

Islamic garden – Spain. The Generalife gardens, part of Alhambra palace from the time of Muslim rule.

Green is often the colour associated with Islam, so it’s a must that a garden inspired by this faith would have an abundance of greenery. Whether that’s in the form of grass to relax upon or lines of palm trees that you can linger under to seek shade and enjoy ripe fruits.

Water is the most important feature of this type of garden. The sound of flowing water is no doubt soothing. Water is therapy all on it’s own.

Gardens are so important for the Islamic world due to what they symbolize. Islamic gardens must be as relaxing and peaceful as possible, they are a place of contemplation and for that reason there is plenty of seating.

These gardens are amazingly powerful, because not only are they a place for laughter and chatter, but for a believer it gives a taste of what paradise could be like, of what eternal happiness could be like, this will most likely make a follower become closer to their creator and want to lead a good life.

But the garden is also important for practical reasons. In the dry, heated climate of the Middle East a beautiful, shaded garden, a calming oasis is not at all taken for granted.

Symmetry is another important feature. If you take a look at Islamic gardens, you’ll often find flowers and trees being in a symmetrical pattern. Many Islamic gardens will have a small lake in the middle with palm trees flanked on either side.

Geometric patterns are popular. Whether they’re painted onto the walls of arches in the garden or whether you find these patterns on the floor work paving the way into the garden. Multi-coloured stonework is used for decoration as well. Arches in the shape of the dome of a mosque are common, once again relating directly back to faith.   

Some more examples of well known gardens of this style…..

Al-Azhar park – Cairo

Eram garden – Iran. A world heritage site from the 19th century,

A great many of us are familiar of the vast amounts of Islamic architecture, but if you wish to be reminded of paradise, pay closer attention to the gardens!

‘Indeed, Allah will admit those who believe and do righteous deeds to gardens beneath which rivers flow. Indeed, Allah does what He intends’.