A History of Architectural Theory

Hanno-Walter Kruft

What is it about?

A History of Architectural Theory, is a comprehensive guide to Western architectural theory that covers topics from Vitrivius to the present.

Who should read it?

This is a great resource for anyone who is interested in architectural theory – architects, architecture students, professors, as well as historians and theorists.

Who is the Author?

Hanno-Walter Kruft (1938-1993) was a German Art Historian. He is mostly known for his book, A History of Architectural Theory.

Introduction: What is Architectural Theory?

What is the Basic Definition of Architecture Theory?

The introduction to the book starts to unravel and explore the definition of what is architectural theory. Kruft begins by defining architecture theory with the basic definition of,

the sum of what has been consciously formulated as such, i.e. as the history of thought on architecture as recorded in written form.

The theory does not have to be explored only within the written text, but is sometimes revealed through the built architecture.

How is each Theory of Architecture Developed?

When studying architecture theory, each theory system has to be studied by asking two important questions:

What is its aim?
For whom is it directed?

Kruft also alerts the reader that we cannot assume that architecture theory will improve as time passes on. It is dangerous to assume so, as there is sometimes loss or lack of sophistication. The development architectural theory is often due to new needs or new technologies and at times it may also be due to the expression of the ideals at the time.

Expanding on the Definition of Architecture Theory...

Taking everything into consideration, Kruft argues and expands on the definition of architecture theory to say that it seeks to combine, aesthetic, social, and practical considerations as a whole. Systems of architecture theory that are the most practical tend to be more popular as they are typically developed by architects. Examples of this includes pattern books, as well as the classical orders of architecture, and the theory proportion.

Architecture Theory is Always Influenced by History

The different architecture theories are always influenced by history as new systems tend to developed from debates or contradictions to older systems. There is never a completely new system – if an architecture theory claims to be new it is stupid or dangerous. History and architectural theory go hand in hand as architecture theory represents a space in time within history.

What is the relationship between Architecture and Theory?

Kruft argues that architecture theory can be used to check architecture as they both should be in constant dialogue with one another so they each flourish. Architectural theory itself can be checked by referencing built architecture. There are various architects who have recognized and understood this relationship and along with their built architecture work they have also grown a legacy of architectural theory studies. For example, Palladio and Frank Lloyd Wright – the viewer has to study and be knowledgeable with their theory work as well as their buildings to fully understand each one.

How do you Study/Understand a Theoretical System?

Architecture theory systems should be first studied and understood as entities and then be seen as a part of history. After being studied as such then can there be a critical assessment established. In order to effective study a system of architectural theory, the viewer has to measure it against its own rules/claims before creating an assessment of it.