What characterizes the term "style" in architecture?

In architecture, the term "style" refers to a distinctive form of artistic expression that encompasses a variety of elements, including design, aesthetics, and cultural context. A style is manifested in the visual characteristics and forms that define a particular period or movement in architecture.

This concept of style allows architects to convey ideas, emotions, and societal values through their work. For example, the Gothic style is characterized by pointed arches and intricate details, which communicate a sense of verticality and spirituality, while Modernist architecture emphasizes simplicity, function, and the absence of ornamentation, reflecting a different set of cultural ideals and technological advancements.

While innovative use of materials, specific construction methods, and technological advancements can certainly influence architectural style, they do not solely encapsulate the essence of what defines a style in architecture. Instead, they may contribute to evolving a particular style or movement, but it is the artistic expression that fundamentally characterizes architectural style.