Classicism contrasts with the philosophy of art and life called romanticism. Classicism stresses reason and analysis, while romanticism stresses imagination and the emotions.
Classical art looks to the past for its models. It often revives ancient Greek and Roman values, and is then called neoclassicism. Classical artists follow formal rules of composition more closely than romantic artists do. Classicists know that reality is complex. But they try to approach reality through simple structures. For example, the classical playwright concentrates on essentials by restricting a play to a single line of action that could happen within one day, in one place, or in nearby places.
The main point on how and why classical period emerged and developed to the world response the thinkers who lived and taught there prepared the ground for much of Western philosophy for the next 2000 years. This is big political influence. During the 5th century BCE, under the brilliant leadership of Pericles, the city- state of Athens rose to become the political and cultural focus of the Greek world.
“Beauty consists in the proportions…”- Galen, Greek Physician, 129- c.200 CE (See Page 4 at the Figure 1 “The Parthenon”)
The Parthenon is a masterwork of visual illusion, which tells us a lot about the genius of its creators. Their subtle visual feature and dimensions definitely sets it apart from the rest of the temples in Greece.
Figure 1 “The Parthenon”
The big influence for architectural and interior designs has social life, because many of the Greek statues that survive today are actually Roman copies. In many ways the Romans simply copied the art of the Greeks, although they later went on to create their own artistic identity. The Romans created monumental architecture and statues that celebrated the glories and wealth of their rule- Arch of Constantine (See Below at the Diagram 2 “Arch of Constantine”), for example.
Diagram 2 “Arch of Constantine”
The Arch of Constantine was dedicated in 315 by the senate and people of Rome along the triumphal route after Constantine’s defeat of Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge in 312. It was also designed to commemorate Constantine’s tenth anniversary of rule. The current state of conservation of the arch is particularly good and provides people with an excellent way to experience what Roman monumental architecture is like. That’s how interiors & architectural designs are important to society from early civilizations to the present day.
In economical way all these architectural and interiors designs are good, because of the new styles, original and luxurious buildings the cities became a greater. Apperiate more jobs, perspectives for people in their professions, new living conditions, incomes and etc.
TODAY’S CLASSICAL INTERIOR DESIGNS
Figure 3 “A classical entrances to a home inspired by Greek and Roman culture.”
Figure 4 “Classic interior design is derived from Greek and Roman design.”
This type of interior design is based upon order, balance, and perfect harmony (See above at Figure 4 Figure 4 “Classic interior design is derived from Greek and Roman design.”). Classical design does not include any modern elements or current influences. Instead, classic interior design is steeped in tradition. In order to distinguish classical design from other types of design, it is important to understand the idea behind a focal point.
Classically designed rooms often contain large focal points. A primary element in classical style is the use of a focal point around which visual balance is achieved (See above at Figure 3 “A classical entrances to a home inspired by Greek and Roman culture.”). A grand, marble fireplace flanked on either side by matching, gilded light sconces and crowned with an elaborate, gold framed mirror would be good example of classical balance. Once a designer has chosen the focus of a room- all other items within the room are placed in order to enhance the look of the chosen focal point.
The color palette common to classical interior design style takes it cue from the empire periods of history where color choices were often inspired by nature. Consider various yellows, blues, greens, browns as well as softer, muted hues like terracotta’s, greys and pinks. Adding some ebony (black) accenting within a well-planned design scheme can enhance the classical feel.
As with most other materials used inside of a classical space, fabrics should be understated. Linen, cotton and other durable fabrics are often used to create a classic theme. Designers who wish to add a bit of a splash to a classical room may choose to use taffeta and silks along with cotton and linen. Velvet is also used in abundance, though velvet is best used as an upholstery fabric.
When it comes to flooring options, classic interior design does not stray that far from the flooring materials once used by the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Wood, marble, slate, and stone are all ideal choices. Marble and stone can be placed in a geometric pattern in order to create an interesting, and calculated, look.
There is something about a room decorated in classic style that lets you taste the grandeur of a bygone era… that lets you remember those good old times. The classic never goes out of style.
Lilija Deviatnikova
By "Lily Design" 2011
