IELTS HUB
Agree or disagree ArtWorkSociety Essay #306
Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

When designing a building, the most important thing for architects to consider is the intended use of the building rather than its outward appearance.

To what extent Do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Use the plan, then compare with Band 9.
310 words · 4 paragraphs
Introduction

Paraphrase topic about function vs appearance being most important for architects. State opinion: function is major but not the *only* or *most* important factor.

Many individuals assert that the primary consideration for architects when designing a building should be its intended function, rather than its aesthetic appeal. While I concur that the building's purpose should be a significant factor, I disagree with the notion that it should be the sole or paramount consideration.

Body 1 · View 1

Argue for the significance of intended purpose (function): Determines layout/structure (affects users, e.g., hospital design); sets safety standards (e.g., nuclear power plant safety).

The importance of a building's intended use in its design cannot be overstated. Firstly, a building's function dictates its layout and structure, which directly impacts its inhabitants. For instance, a hospital requires a design that facilitates efficient patient care and movement, which would be vastly different from a design suitable for a residential building. Secondly, the building's purpose also determines its safety requirements. A nuclear power plant, for example, necessitates stringent safety measures in its design to prevent catastrophic accidents, highlighting the critical role of function in architectural design.

Body 2 · View 2

Argue against function being the sole consideration, emphasizing aesthetics: Affects mental well-being of occupants (studies show mood/productivity impact); shapes city character/identity (e.g., Sydney Opera House, Guggenheim museum boosting city reputation/pride).

However, to claim that the building's function should be the only consideration is an extreme view that overlooks the importance of aesthetics. Firstly, the outward appearance of a building contributes significantly to the psychological well-being of its occupants. A dreary, unattractive building can have a negative impact on mood and productivity, as evidenced by numerous studies in environmental psychology. Secondly, a building's aesthetic appeal plays a crucial role in defining a city's character and identity. For example, the distinctive architecture of landmarks like the Sydney Opera House or the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao has not only enhanced their respective cities' global profiles but also fostered a sense of pride among the local population.

Conclusion

Summarize importance of function (layout, structure, safety) and aesthetics (well-being, city identity). Restate opinion that function shouldn't overshadow aesthetics; both are important factors.

In conclusion, while the function of a building is indeed a vital consideration in its design, due to its influence on layout, structure, and safety requirements, it should not overshadow the importance of aesthetics. The outward appearance of a building, after all, significantly affects the psychological well-being of its occupants and contributes to the cultural identity of a city.

How our answers are made

Go further with the books

Writing Task 2

100 Essential IELTS Essays

Band 9 Sample Answers for the Real Exam

₹199$6.99CAD 8.99AUD 9.99£4.99NZD 10.99€5.99AED 24SGD 8.99

Free preview

Writing Task 2

Behind the Red Pen

50 Real IELTS Essays Graded, Diagnosed, and Rewritten

₹299$9.99CAD 13.99AUD 14.99£7.99NZD 16.99€8.99AED 39SGD 12.99

Free preview

Kit · 3 books + 1 marked essay

Writing 7 Kit

The strategy to break the 6.5 ceiling, the mistakes that cost marks, the vocabulary that lifts Lexical Resource, then one essay marked to check you are there.

₹799$26.99CAD 37.99AUD 39.99£20.99NZD 45.99€23.99AED 99SGD 34.99 ₹1,296$43.96CAD 60.96AUD 65.96£33.96NZD 73.96€38.96AED 166SGD 56.96

Next question: Big companies should provide sports and social facilities for the local communities where they operate. To what extent Do you agree or disagree with this statement?