There are many different forms of architecture in the world. Each design brings with it a certain aesthetic, utilising different methods of design, unique materials during the construction phase, and different intended uses. For some architecture, the idea of design is enough in of itself, whilst other types of architecture are designed to serve a functional purpose. Here, we take a look at cobblestone architecture and how it manifests in different communities.
So, what is cobblestone architecture and how would you describe it?
Cobblestone architecture is the term used when cobblestones are embedded in mortar when erecting walls for both domestic and commercial structures. It is a type of architecture that is particular popular in the Northeastern part of the United States, including New York State. It has also been extensively used within the construction of streets in the UK and Europe historically, and is instantly recognisable as a design feature of many towns and cities as a result.
The style in the United States was first seen in the early 1800s, and there is an incredible number of cobblestone buildings in the New York State area (especially around Rochester) due to the construction of canals and other infrastructure utilising this style during this time. The design of cobblestone architecture consists of whole rows of cobblestones that have been embedded into the lime mortar that is to be used to construct the walls of a structure.
This design can also include the exterior of the surface also displaying cobblestones in a clear pattern. This is where the decorative aspect of cobblestone architecture come into play. When you look at certain types of houses in the Northeastern parts of the United States, you’ll often see many houses that have this decorative exterior cobblestone look, without the interior surfaces being constructed with cobblestone as part of the functional quality of the structure.
In the UK and in many different parts of Europe however, cobblestone architecture is looked upon a little differently. Cobbles streets and cobbles squares in village and town centres, as well as larger cobbles streets and thoroughfares in big cities, have a decorative appeal that lends itself to over-arching design patterns for an urban environment as a whole. For example, you might think of a whole town as having cobbled streets, rather than just certain sections of it. It is a pretty architectural and urban planning aesthetic.
Architecture firms often have very different capabilities and styles of design and architecture within its team. Cobblestone architecture is a completely unique style of architecture, bringing a different aesthetic to buildings, structures, and communities than other styles of architecture. The world is an interesting and varied place, and the best architecture firms understand the different balances and the different benefits that styles can have, impacting on many different aspects of life with just a subtle difference to an adjoining design. For town planners looking for assistance from architecture firms with experience of cobblestone architecture, think about the overall design that is required, and how best to implement cobblestones into these parameters.