The Triad of Vitruvius in the Modern World

As any language, the language of architecture is characterized by specific qualities based on certain norms and regulations. During many centuries, the order has been considered as a central category connecting all the conceptions of the architectural language. In the second half of 1st century BC, a Roman architect Vitruvius asserted fundamentals of the modern architectural values in his treatise “The Ten Books on Architecture”, based on the rules of harmony. The key point of the treatise is the Vitruvian Triad—«firmitas, utilitas, venustas» (strength, utility, beauty). However, the modern rhythms of our society dictate new requirements for the architecture. The development of society is characterized, first, sufficient information richness in knowledge, production methods and technologies, materials, second, the globality of communication possibilities: plurality and accessibility of information sources transfer of innovation, high technology manufacturing, intelligent products. Such changes should affect the appearance of new concepts and styles in architecture, the changing goals and objectives, as well as ways and methods of their realization. Continuous flow of innovations change consumer needs, determine new fundamental aspects of architectural work. Therefore, “innovation” is a new fourth category modern fundamentals of architectural values. The article presents the innovative aspects of architectural activity, confirming the hypothesis of the emergence of a new category.