The very first examples of architecture were for the sole purpose of shelter. It was not seen as an art until humans started to develop their cultures and religions. The first buildings that were intended for something other than shelter were places of worship. Individual homes were not made to look artistic until later.

Some of the most obvious examples of this type of architecture are ziggurats built by the Mesopotamians. Then came the Pyramids built by Egyptians. Notice that these architectural structures are made of basic geometric shapes.

Just like with any piece of historical art, the lack of complexity is apparent. That is, of course, not to say that these are not amazing pieces of art, because they are. But if you look at ancient cave paintings and pre-renaissance canvas paintings, you will certainly notice a stark difference.

As you look at the timeline of architecture and construction, you will notice that (with the exception of the pyramids and ziggurats, because those were quite large) buildings start to grow larger, and they become more complex--it is quite clear that measuring tools have been used.

A very popular architectural style is that of ancient Greece. When people think of architecture as an art, they usually think of ancient Greece. With the amazing symmetry, marble all over, columns, and the use of curves as well as straight lines, it really is quite beautiful. The Greeks were the first to really treat construction as an art. Roman architecture is quite similar, although they made frequent use of arches.

As the timeline continues, you will see more and more curved structures. Renaissance cathedrals are some of the most complex and beautiful architectural accomplishments you will ever see. These generally took over twenty years to build and plenty of rulers, saws, and other tools and supplies. Renaissance architects made use of stained glass, gargoyles, and spires.

There are also several examples of domed ceilings. Indian architecture utilized curves quite often. Marble was also a common material. The most well known example of Indian architecture is probably the Taj Mahal, with its beautifully domed roofs and arches; everything perfectly measured and proportioned.

American architecture has never been quite so artistic. Because all of United States history has been either rural or industrial, there wasn't ever very much time to take architectural creativity into account. Most of the buildings are only noticeable only for the fact that they are so tall. Other than that, they are simply rectangular; they are more for practical business use rather than any aesthetic pleasure.

Of course, there are some works of art. The White House, for example, is more visually pleasing than what you would find in, say, New York City. There are, however, many beautiful residential homes in the United States. Lovely estates in the country, large homes on the beach, things like that.

There are many areas that chose to replicate the Victorian style, others that have a more modern look to them, with large windows and a curved look.Modern architecture tends to be more abstract. There is no definite geometric shape, and they look rather strange.