1. Introduction

In this chapter, the aim is to give substance to the premise that the ‘structural aesthetic’ is valid as a measure of architecture of worth, an aspect that is largely overlooked in the wider context. To this end a virtual matrix of criteria, backed by the philosophical research of recognised commentators, becomes a filter to guide the selection of the most deserving ten ‘masters’ and their landmark buildings. As contributing factors, cognitive associations and cultural preference as explored  by neuroscience are fundamental to architectural appreciation. The influences of manual methods to the empowering technical advances are seen as integral in the wider perspective. These parameters coupled with the reliance on Nature of master builders from the past  and contemporary architects as an inspiration for their architectural forms at all periods of architectural history are compelling in the design equation that has assumed many formulations, from two-dimensional geometry of earlier times to three-dimensional parametricism of recent works.