Architects often think of themselves as artists even though much of the work involved is mathematical. Beginning as an idea and evolving into a revealed structure that is still admired today, some creations are considered masterpieces designed by magnificent artists. There have been many famous architects and home builders honored for their artistic abilities throughout history. These are six of the most famous:

1. Michelangelo
Best known for his sculpture and painting work, Michelangelo was also recognized as one of the greatest designers. His work is still revealed today. He was even one of the first to defy tradition and try a different style. In 1523, the Pope asked Michelangelo to design a library over a convent. Breaking with the classical style, he built the Laurentian Library.

2. Mimar Sinan
While Michelangelo was in Italy, Mimar Sinan was in the Ottoman Empire designing more than 300 structures. He is often recognized as the most influential Turkish architect in history. Mimar Sinan perfected the shape of the domed mosque. He became head of the Imperial Architects in 1538.

3. Louis-Henri Sullivan
Known as the “father of skyscrapers,” Sullivan was one of the first architects to design skyscrapers. He began implementing steel to allow for taller structures. He also began to incorporate natural elements and geometric shapes. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, Sullivan was able to rebuild buildings in his innovative style.

4. Antonio Gaudi
Gaudí is the most famous designer in Spain after his renowned takeover of the city of Barcelona. Throughout the city you can see Gaudí’s style, a strange mixture of neo-Gothic, surreal and avant-garde.

5. Yeoh Ming Pei
This celebrated architect from China studied in the United States and brought together modern and traditional design methods, what he calls the “pipe dream.” He is also known for his work on brutalism and use of bold forms. The famous glass pyramids in front of the Louvre Museum in Paris are his most recognized works.

6.Frank Lloyd Wright
Wright is probably the most acclaimed of all home builders and designers. Sullivan was his early mentor and, like his teacher, Wright developed his own unique style. Wright was more in tune with the Prairie School of Architecture, so he created many houses and buildings with this approach. His best known work is the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, which is seen by thousands of residents and tourists on a weekly basis.

Innovative home builders, architects and designers from all over the world have been creating and constructing different types of buildings that we still see today. These are considered works of art because we still admire them today. Students are still learning about these people in their classrooms and trying to emulate them.