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Architecture shapes the world around us, blending form, function, and beauty. It can be as imposing as a skyscraper or as intimate as a 500-square-foot tiny home. Materials like steel, glass, and concrete define modern cityscapes, while traditional structures rely on stone, wood, or brick, depending on the culture and climate.

Characterized by grand facades, symmetrical designs, and the use of classical elements like columns and arches, the Beaux-Arts style conveyed power and permanence. Buildings like the New York Public Library showcase its ornamentation and use of marble. The style often featured interiors with high ceilings, intricate moldings, and large, imposing staircases.

The Arts and Crafts movement influenced early 20th-century American residential architecture, focusing on handcrafted details and natural materials. Homes designed in this style often feature exposed wooden beams, stone fireplaces, and large windows that allow for a connection to the surrounding landscape.

Art Deco architecture reached its peak in the 1920s and 1930s, especially in large cities like New York and Chicago. Featuring bold geometric shapes, sleek lines, and vibrant colors, this style reflected the optimism and technology of the time. The Chrysler Building exemplifies it with its shiny metal spire and intricate ornamentation.

The development of suburban housing in the early 20th century was influenced by the ideals of the American Dream. Homes in these neighborhoods were often designed in Colonial Revival or Cape Cod styles, with neat green lawns, wide front porches, and an emphasis on the importance of the American family life.