Introduction
The architectural style of every building is unique, though projects can have similarities in comparison with architectural styles of previous eras. It is necessary to mention that some particular elements may be characteristic for buildings of the same period or similar purpose. For example, churches of the same historical period within the same country are sure to have identical features which can be considered distinctive for a definite style as well as municipal buildings and castles. As a rule, history repeats itself and we can observe some features which were characteristic of the Renaissance in the buildings created during the post-modernistic period. It can be traced to the example of the central facade of the Lubar School of Business.
Renaissance and Postmodernism
Postmodernism can be characterized by architectural projects which started to occur in the middle of the twentieth century all over the world. Though the first projects of this style appeared in the 1950s, it became an international movement only in 1970s. Functional style in architecture was not considered appropriate, so, it was necessary to create some new trends which would correspond to the international desire for experimentation and extravagant forms. As we can see to date, this tendency gave rise to a new architectural style that is used nowadays.
The postmodern design incorporated references to historic architecture which can be observed in Lubar Hall. Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque architectural principles can be considered precursors of the postmodern architectural style. It is necessary to indicate the most obvious similarities of postmodernism and such architectural styles as Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque.
Renaissance can be characterized as an architectural style with round-headed forms, symmetry (which was taken from antiquity), proportions, geometry, and the regularity of parts. All these features can be attributed to the building under consideration except the round-headed form which was not typical for the postmodern design. The Lubar Hall has proportions, geometry, regular parts, and symmetry; all these elements were borrowed from the Renaissance architectural style and techniques.
Entablature which can be considered a common feature of all mannerism-designed buildings cannot be traced while regarding the Lubar Hall. It is important to indicate that entablature was typical of mannerism because it is rooted in Renaissance as well as all successive styles in architecture. There is no massive central column which was typical of the Renaissance, though a series of buttresses and retaining walls can be clearly observed.
It seems that the whole facade is made of bricks which contributes to the overall impression of the massive and tremendous building. Though there are no grilled doors and the walls cannot be considered as rusticated, it is obvious that the central entrance is made as a central part of the building which resembles a massive column. This creates an impression of magnificence and wholeness.
Columns, pilasters and lintels which can be considered an integral part of all buildings and architectural projects of the Renaissance can be observed in the Lubar Hall facade. This building has more features in common with the Renaissance architectural style than with the postmodern one. However, some elements are considered distinctive features of the postmodern style, suchlike curtain wall facade. At least a part of it can be regarded as the curtain wall.
I believe that all elements contributed greatly to the overall impression of the building; it is made of regular parts and proportions, its geometry is obvious because there are no irregular forms. Unlike real postmodern buildings, this one has neither irregular forms nor angles which have no proportion. An ordinary postmodern building has to include either technologically advanced materials or extraordinary forms.
This building can be considered more functional than all buildings of the postmodern architectural style. It does not have details of decoration that were typical of the Baroque era, though it is nicely shaped and has regular proportions. All elements are harmoniously combined into the unique architectural ensemble.
As we can see, the classical techniques and trends can be easily used in modern architecture with mere changes concerning materials because the modern building industry suggests a great number of materials that can reduce the weight of the construction. Though some classical techniques cannot be applied to the modern architectural style, it is possible to use basic features or common peculiarities.
Conclusion
To conclude, the Renaissance contributed greatly to international architecture which is used in modern buildings. Mannerism and Baroque can be observed in the modern buildings as well, though the Renaissance should be considered the original origin of these styles. The most important features of the Renaissance are its geometry, proportion, and regular forms. All these features can be observed in the facade of the Lubar Hall. The only obvious feature of the post-modern architectural design that can be traced in the facade of the Lubar Hall is the curtain wall technique which is used to make the outer walls lighter.