Oldest arches

A stylized plant forms, such as the papyrus, common to the banks of the Nile River.

Pyramid form

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The Corinthian order, seen here at the Temple of Zeus, emerged in the 5th century BCE as an ornate variation of the Ionic order. Initially, it was employed exclusively in interior colonnades. The capital design is believed to be inspired by a basket adorned with acanthus leaves.

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Central heating, where hot air from furnaces circulated through an underfloor duct system known as a hypocaust, was used to heat both civic and domestic buildings.

These are the “vimanas,” or towers, that rise from the core of Hindu temples, varying in shape across different regions of India. These towers, like the one at the Brihadeshvara Temple in Tanjore, are always richly and elaborately decorated.

The stupa is a sacred shrine symbolizing Mount Meru, while also serving as a sanctuary for the relics of the Buddha. The Great Stupa of Sanchi is the most renowned example of this architectural form.

A Tea ceremony pavilions

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Rope representing kekkai, the line between purity and impurity.

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Recessed alcove, shelves, desk, and decorative doors. 

Brought from Korea and China

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Inca stonework, seen here at Machu Picchu, was immensely skillful. Walls were built without mortar. Stones cut with great precision were locked into one

another to shape earthquake resistant walls of great strength and durability.

Abstract capitals, forming a hypostyle hall.

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The Ionic order, as seen at the Erechtheion in Athens, is distinguished by capitals adorned with volutes, or spirals, on each side of the columns. Typically, the columns feature 24 flutes—concave grooves that run vertically along the column’s shaft.​

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These intentionally evoke the

construction of early Japanese

temples.

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Basin containing water for ritual purification of mouth and hands before entering the shrine grounds.

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Designed to be earthquake proof, if not fireproof, temples, palaces,

and other buildings achieved a sense of serenity.

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