Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Dictionaries, glossaries, and studies that outline the conceptual definition of the term «Visionary Architecture» demonstrate a discrepancy in the information provided, so the concepts of utopian, fantastic, and futuristic architecture are often considered synonymous with it. The aim of research is to identify and systematize data on the concept of «Visionary Architecture» and its terminological connotations, outlined by the concepts of utopianism, fantasy and futurism as the most common; to determine their interconnection for enrichment and deeper disclosure of professional architectural terminology. The scientific paper explores utopianism, fantasy, and futurism as terminological connotations – accompanying meanings – of visionary architecture, highlighting the unique relationships between them. Utopianism is most closely aligned with visionary architecture due to its pursuit of grasping the vast and transcending reality in search of an idealized conception. This aligns with the aspirations of visionary architects, who often supported their bold ideas with solid theoretical and logical foundations. The connection between fantasy and visionary architecture lies in the ideological inspiration and daring design explorations, which may initially appear eccentric but have the potential to become a future reality. Futurism, closely tied to fantasy, reflects the unrealized ideas of the present that might materialize in the future, making it intrinsically linked to the legacy of visionary architecture. Architectural visions have always driven the pursuit of innovative design approaches. Even when they remain unrealized, existing only on paper or other media, they have a profound impact, inspiring and energizing the creative spirit of architects and designers. Architectural visions have always driven the pursuit of innovative design approaches. Even when they remain unrealized, existing only on paper or other media, they have a profound impact, inspiring and energizing the creative spirit of designers. The term «Visionary Architecture» is reasonable due to the depth of its interpretive meaning. The word «visionary» refers to «one who sees», while «vision» signifies «sight» or «imagination». This term encompasses both the conceptualization of ideal city projects aimed at creating perfect living environments (utopian architecture) and the imagination of extraordinary megastructures of the future (fantastic and futuristic architecture). These diverse connotations enrich the realm of visionary architecture, highlighting its multifaceted nature and contributing to its rich project heritage.
Source: Municipal economy of cities
Author: N. Vergunova
Language: English
Subfield: Architecture
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4409564701