Small architectural forms - classification, purpose and main types (60 photos)

Today it is difficult to imagine a modern country estate without small architectural forms. It is they who give integrity and completeness to the summer cottage area. In addition, MAFs give a feeling of unity with nature and help create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. In other words, they provide the creation of the conditions necessary for a good rest.

Summary of the article:

History tour

The first MAF appeared in Italy in the Renaissance. During this period, sculptors and architects began to take part in the creation of parks. Then, Japanese thinkers and philosophers came to the conclusion that stone is an important part of any garden, which has a sacred and even to some extent symbolic meaning. To this day, no Japanese garden can be imagined without any stone structure.

In ancient Russia, the attitude to the tree was reverent. At that time, adjoining sections were decorated with wooden figures with images of representatives of the fairy-tale fauna and heroes of epics.

The use of MAF around the house made it possible to give the garden area a certain stylistic orientation, which today allows us to draw a clear line between the existing styles.

MAF mission

MAF is an integral part of the landscape design of the courtyard, which includes decorative compositions and structures that perform aesthetic and practical functions.

MAF is the perfect complement to any garden and park ensemble. They must meet such requirements as:

Convenience.
Extraordinary design decision.
Beautiful appearance.
Functionality.
Harmoniousness.
Comfort.
The quality of the materials.
Constructiveness.
Reasonable cost.

The main types of MAF, depending on the purpose

Small architectural forms have two purposes:

Their appearance must give aesthetic pleasure.
They must be functional in order to provide a suitable atmosphere for rest and relaxation.

LFAs are divided into LFAs designed to:

For zoning space

Sometimes there is a need to visually or physically highlight a certain part of the site. The solution will be the following types of MAF:

small decorative bridges;
arched structures;
protective structures;
fountains and fountains;
Topiary
sculptural expositions;
vases;
decorative supporting walls;
stair steps.

Various fencing, small bridges and arched structures divide the territory into zones. In addition, they are a unique garden decor that emphasizes the style and individuality of the cottage.

Topiary are called special MAF in the form of figures made from living trees and bushes. The design of such architectural forms can be very different.

Park sculptures mean not only the usual standard single sculptures or several sculptures, but also, for example, a bird bath in the middle of the pond or a miniature mill.

For arranging places of rest

This category includes gazebos, park furniture, benches, swings, barbecues, playgrounds for sports or games.

The most common form of MAF are arbors. They provide conditions for secluded relaxation and are divided into open and glazed.

Architectural forms for playgrounds are no less popular.After all, adults are much calmer when the children are busy with games, and not loitering around.

For convenience

This group of MAF includes lanterns, urns, fountains with drinking water.

Types of MAF according to the use of plants

Photos of small architectural forms clearly illustrate that all MAFs are divided into two types:

MAF using plants;
MAF, not involving plants.

We considered the last view above, so we will not dwell on it.

MAFs requiring the presence of plants

Trellis. These are supporting structures for ampel type plants made of metal alloys or wood. They can act both as arbors, and as fences.

Pergolas. These are awnings, the roof of which is a lattice entwined with curly bushes and flowers. Pergolas can take the form of a separate structure, as well as annexes to the main building.

Grapevine, clematis, hops, and even roses usually serve as plants for such MAFs. Inside you can place a table with benches and barbecue - this will turn this element of landscape decor into a cozy gazebo.

Bosquets. They are green “arbors”, the walls of which are formed from trees and bushes trimmed in a special way. A similar kind of MAF came to us from France. In the 16-17th centuries, not a single French garden and park ensemble did without a bosquet.

Arches. The semicircular arched structures decorated with ampelous plants provide excellent protection against hot sunlight.

Types of MAF by type of material used

Depending on the type of material, small architectural forms are divided into:

metal;
concrete;
wooden;
stone;
made from vines.

There are MAFs that combine several materials. An arbor can serve as an example of such a landscape decoration - stone, wood, and metal can be simultaneously used in its design.

Unusual design ideas for the IAF

Gazebo. This is a covered structure, erected on a wooden or concrete base. Most often, gazebos are made of wood, metal or brick. It is also possible to combine several materials at once. The configuration of such MAFs can be different: round, square, rectangular, hexagonal, etc.

Rotunda and gazebo. These indoor architectural forms are for solitary reflection or closed tea parties. Similar LFAs are echoes of a classic style. They are rarely seen in the usual suburban area.

Belvedere. They represent a viewing platform, around the perimeter of which are supporting columns. Therefore, for their placement choose the highest place. The first belvedere appeared in Western Europe in the Middle Ages.

Decorative lanterns. Today they are quite popular among landscape designers. They are installed in the most significant compositional places.

Furniture sets for landscape gardening ensembles. Representatives of this type of MAF are benches and tables. Such furniture can be located anywhere.

LFA for children. Children's architectural forms - a variety of swings, slides, horizontal bars, etc. - are intended for recreation and games for children.

Today, not a single garden or park can do without the IAF. If you thought about whether they are needed in your personal plot, then the answer is unequivocal - they are needed. You can buy them at the store or make them yourself. It all depends on your preference. Go ahead and then your garden will become the subject of your pride and envy of your neighbors.