It’s clear that some buildings are simply better than others, be it visually only or because of other reasons as well, such as functionality or energy efficiency, just to name a couple. That’s why architects have to think long and hard about numerous aspects of the dwelling, in addition to its appearance.

“Good architecture is designed to serve the needs of the people who will use the space.​ It starts with a clear understanding of who the project will serve, support, and influence,” Danish Kurani told Bored Panda, discussing the features of excellent architecture.

“It involves looking within and understanding the challenges, needs, and aspirations of the people who will use the space.​ It goes beyond considering personal style preferences and focuses on the underlying needs and experiences of the users.”

Other things architects should focus on, according to Kurani, are solving real problems and prioritizing functionality. “Good architecture focuses on solving real problems rather than superficial issues.​ It prioritizes solutions that improve the lives of the users and meet their objectives.”

“While aesthetics are important, they should not come at the expense of practicality and usability. ​The design should be functional, sustainable, and meet the needs of the users,” he added.

The architecture expert continued by emphasizing that it’s important to consider the broader context: it’s necessary to take into consideration the impact of the design on the environment, ecosystems, and the community. “Good architecture aims to create buildings and spaces that are sustainable and beneficial for both humans and the environment.”

Expanding on the matter of sustainability, Kurani pointed out that architects should aim to create buildings and spaces that are energy-efficient, reduce waste, and rely on renewable resources; they should take into account the environmental impact of the design and seek to minimize negative consequences.

Some of the last but not least things architects should focus on are having an informed design approach and a problem-solving mindset. According to the designer, the first one involves engaging with the users, observing their behaviors and needs, and involving them in the design process (which helps to create designs that truly meet the needs and aspirations of the users), while the second focuses on being able to identify the right problems to solve and prioritizing solutions over visual style.

The features suggested by Danish Kurani are what makes certain architecture great; it’s something those working in the field—roughly 222,000 people in the US alone, according to 2023 data—should strive for.

But some people out of the 222,000 in the US and many more elsewhere in the world have gone way past being good and presented the world with awe-inspiring examples of architectural wonders. (If you want to browse such examples, continue to the list of masterpieces that won the 2020 Architecture MasterPrize or marvel at the cool and unique architecture, as shared on this online community, and see for yourself.)

Discussing what takes a building from good to great, Kurani first and foremost suggested that applause-worthy creations solve real problems. According to the expert, their design should prioritize solutions over style and address the specific needs and goals of the people using the space.

They should also be designed for change. “The design should recognize the power of the built environment to change people and nudge them towards desired behaviors and mindsets,” he said.

“The design should follow nature,” Kurani continued. “It should respect the influence of natural factors such as light, air, and materials on people and incorporate them in a way that aligns with our evolutionary and biological needs.”

Respecting nature often goes hand in hand with the next feature - building locally, as using certain locally-sourced materials can be more eco-friendly than sending them from a land far, far away. “The design should source materials and approaches to construction from the local area, minimizing the use of materials that harm the environment,” the designer told Bored Panda.

Two of the last features that take architecture to the next level are being contextual and able to evoke emotion. Talking about the first one, Danish Kurani suggested that, “The design should consider the total impact of a choice, not just one effect in isolation, and ensure that it aligns with the overall goals and principles.”

As for the second, “It should consider the emotional ergonomics of a space and create the optimal feeling by using elements such as color, light, materials, and sound with intentionality.”

If you’re looking for some more examples of awe-inspiring architecture, browse these instances of architects putting in the effort to make something extra special and succeeding next. Happy scrolling!