ABSTRACT
Architecture is a practical subject and most buildings were built for the purpose of housing an activity or sheltering objects. It is for this reason that we start by looking at function, space and the internal environment. We usually see the exterior of a building first and it is very easy just to look at this and confine one's appreciation to the fa~ade. This can lead to a very superficial understanding of buildings, particularly where the discussion is mainly about whether one likes the forms and the decoration. We may love the great outdoors but we find reasons to build structures to encircle our activities or to protect ourselves and our goods from the weather and other environmental elements such as noise. We may need a controlled temperature, security against theft, damage or fire, and privacy. Different activities such as work, recreation, bringing up a family and worship require different kinds of buildings, perhaps in special locations, with varying internal spaces, environments and form. The functions of buildings are often complex and they are not all utilitarian in the sense of serving a practical purpose. Many buildings are designed to express emotions or symbolise ideas and this can be of importance in determining the final form of the building.
