1. What is “architecture”?Read the following information and compare your answer:

Architecture is often considered to be the oldest and the most useful of the fine arts, as in some respects it is a prerequisite for the other arts. Architecture can be defined, albeit unsatisfactorily, in four different ways. It is the art and method of erecting structures; it is a planned entity; it is a body or corpus of work; it is a way to build. An observer of architecture will note that it meets requirements on functional, technological, and aesthetic levels. Throughout history, architecture has been studied through buildings that have been substantial enough to survive the test of time.

2. A) What architectural styles do you know?Define “architectural style” as you see it:

From the olden days till date, the architectural styles have undergone a massive change. When one studies the different architectural styles, one can understand the kind of creativity that existed since the ancient days. Modern architects often look up to the olden styles of architecture, which continue to inspire professionals in terms of their design and functionality. Here are the descriptions of different architectural styles.

Architectural Style	Description
Ancient Egyptian Architecture	Ancient Egyptian architecture is about the major use of mud bricks and stones for the architectural structures. The beautiful Egyptian temples and  pyramids are some examples of this style of architecture.
Ancient Greek Architecture	Ancient Greek architecture can be distinguished by the specific elements such as the rectangular buildings and the large columns.
Baroque architecture	Baroque architectural styles always played around with a dramatic use of light, central projections, ornamental decoration, and pear domes, etc. The works of Michelangelo created for the late Roman buildings belong to Baroque architecture.
Byzantine Architecture	The use of the circular dome is one of the typical elements of Byzantine architecture.
Chinese Architecture	Chinese architecture is all about the balance and symmetry in the design. The designs have an emphasis of the use of a horizontal axis.
Gothic Architecture	This architectural style was prominent during the high and the late medieval period and began at the Abbey of Saint-Denis. Its certain characteristics are pointed arches, large individual windows, flamboyant designs and the emphasis on the creation of vertical lines in the design.
Roman Architecture	The Roman architecture had a lot of influence from the Greek architecture. The use of the arches and domes are some of the characteristics of this style. The Roman temples, amphitheaters, baths, basilicas, etc stand testimony to the greatness of this style.
Renaissance Architecture	This term refers to the architectural monuments built from the 15th century to the early 17th century. The common features of this style are the use of balance in the design, geometrical shapes, beautiful columns and domes, etc.
Russian Architecture	Russian architecture has always been predominantly religious. Some of the basic elements of Russian architecture are the sharp sloping roofs, domes that cover the structure, the tent shaped spires, etc.

b) Choose any architectural style you like and make a report on it.