Nationwide Vehicle Contracts explores the connection between cars and urban architecture.
Cars are the most popular form of transport across the globe, and as a result, city planners and architects have been in a constant battle to create streamlined urban car networks in their cities.
This has led to the widespread adoption of car infrastructure, such as highways and bridges, but it has also influenced the works of architects who want to use automobile techniques on their buildings.
In this blog, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts explores how cars have impacted the design of buildings and cities throughout history.
The Development of Car Infrastructure
When cars became available to all after the Second World War, there was a growing need for the development of various types of car infrastructures, such as:
Highways – The need for efficient long-distance travel resulted in the creation of extensive highway systems across countries that connected cities and regions. Germany built their first autobahn in 1935, America its first interstate in 1940, and Britain their first motorway in 1958.
Parking Garages – The increase in car ownership and urbanisation led to the construction of multi-level parking garages, which provided practical and efficient parking in densely populated areas. Although not great to look at, parking garages offer a solution to parking issues which plague loads of big cities.
Petrol Stations – Supply and demand! With more people driving cars, it was natural that an increase in petrol stations followed. You can now find petrol stations along highways, major roads, and all urban areas.
Bridges/Tunnels – To overcome obstacles such as hills or bodies of water, bridges and tunnels have been built to allow cars to connect with regions that otherwise would be difficult to reach. The most iconic example is the Golden Gate Bridge, built in 1937 to connect San Francisco to Marin County.
Building Design
The automotive industry has been at the forefront of technology since its inception and has continually pushed the boundaries for design and innovation. As a result, other industries, such as architecture, have taken design elements and used them, such as:
Aesthetics – The aerodynamic shapes of cars have led to the integration of curves and streamlined forms in building facades and structures. This can be seen in the use of smooth lines, curved edges, and dynamic shapes that portray a sense of speed. The most iconic building using this is the Chrysler Building in New York.
Materials and Construction Techniques – The lightweight and durable materials used in the automotive industry, such as steel, aluminium, and glass, have found their way into architecture, enabling innovative architectural designs.
Mobility and Flow - Cars emphasise mobility and efficiency, and a growing trend in public space architecture has been to mirror this. Streets, plazas, and urban areas have been increasingly designed with smooth circular patterns, pedestrian-friendly environments, and efficient vehicular access.
Functional Integration – Just as cars aim to optimise space and provide practical features for their users, buildings now incorporate multifunctional spaces, flexible layouts, and efficient use of square footage.
Tips for Car-Friendly Cities
Balancing the needs of car users with other modes of transportation can be tricky in the modern world. However, it’s essential that urban planners strive for a well-integrated and efficient transport network. Here are some tips to achieve a car-friendly city:
Adequate Parking Facilities – There must be enough parking to accommodate visitors and people working in a city. Designing parking structures that are accessible, affordable, and well-organised will help to optimise parking capacity. It will also keep the streets clear and prevent cars from parking on the side of the road.
Vehicular Circulation – A road network that is thoroughly planned can ensure smooth traffic circulation within a city. Well-designed junctions, properly timed traffic signals, and good signage can help minimise congestion.
Pedestrian-Car Separation – Create safe spaces for pedestrians and cars, such as pedestrian walkways and pavements and ensure they are protected from traffic.
Integration of Smart Technologies – Smart technologies help to prevent and divert traffic and are becoming more common. By using new technologies that monitor traffic and divert drivers, cities can help reduce their congestion.
Consider Future Mobility – Stay informed about emerging car trends such as electric vehicles, car-sharing services, and autonomous vehicles. This will help prepare a flexible infrastructure that can adapt to changing needs.
Tokyo is a great example of a city that has thoroughly planned its motoring network. The largest city in the world by population, Tokyo’s transport network is the best.
A combination of various transport methods, well-maintained roads, efficient traffic management, and parking facilities makes Tokyo car friendly.
Have you spotted any car-inspired architecture? Tweet us @car_lease and show us!
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produce various blogs on a range of topics, such as Car Interiors and How They’ve Mirrored Fashion Trends and How to Choose a Car Leasing Company You Can Trust.
