Investigation of iconic structures in terms of form, function and structure

The Industrial Revolution profoundly transformed not only production processes but also the social structure, lifestyles, and architectural thought. The emergence of new construction techniques and building materials, together with changing spatial and functional requirements, laid the foundation for the development of new approaches to form, function, and structure in architecture. During this period, modern architecture emerged-characterized by its stripped-down, minimalist design, pure geometric forms, and contemporary construction methods. Over time, in contrast to this approach, Postmodern architecture developed, incorporating historical references and symbolic meanings. With the advent of the digital age, the development of computer-aided design tools enabled the emergence of new design approaches such as algorithmic, parametric, and computational design in architecture. On the other hand, global issues such as environmental degradation, the energy crisis, and climate change have brought the concept of sustainable architecture to the forefront. Nature-inspired approaches such as biomimicry and kinetic architecture have reshaped architectural design thinking. This study aims to examine architectural design approaches that have evolved since the Industrial Revolution in the context of form, function, and structure, and to analyse how iconic buildings -those that carry symbolic value and are identified with urban identity- have been shaped within these approaches. Within the scope of the study, a literature review and conceptual framework have been established. Theoretical discussions include modernism, postmoder nism, deconstructivism, digital design approaches developed through computer-aided design, parametric and algorithmic design, as well as sustainable architecture and nature-based approaches such as biomimesis and kinetic architecture, which have emerged in response to environmental and energyrelated concerns. They have been evaluated in terms of Architectural Design Approaches, Form, Function, Spatial Configuration; Structure and Building Materials; Plan and Section Characteristics; and their Contributions to Urban Identity. 2025, xiv + 132 Sayfa Keywords: Industrial Revolution, urban identity, iconic structure, form, function, structure