Hi! I was bored earlier, so I decided to write down some things I've learned about Minecraft over the past few years, in the hopes that someone may find it helpful. I'll be posting tips on a few different categories over the next few days, but for today, I'm focusing on building shapes and styles. Keep in mind that you don't have to listen to anything I say; you can make awesome things without using any of these tips. However, based on personal experience, I've found them helpful, and hopefully you will too!

Without any further ado...

• Squares and cubes are some of the most boring possible shapes you can make in Minecraft. Try livening up your design by adding more details or more colors to the sides, or by using a different shape. Even modern architecture, which often makes use of simple squares and cubes in plain colors, usually uses multiples of these put together to spice things up a bit.
  
• Circles by themselves are boring, too; a single cylinder building probably isn't going to get much attention, no matter how detailed it is.
  
• Multiple squares/cubes or circles/cylinders together is more interesting, but try not to arrange them symmetrically; symmetry is usually pretty boring (or at least not as interesting as asymmetry).
  
• As I said, symmetry is usually boring. Most symmetrical builds lack a focal point that your eyes are drawn to. Asymmetry, on the other hand, encourages you to look around. Symmetrical builds can still be cool; just make sure to add some sort of focal point.
  
• If you want to make a symmetrical building, but you want it to be more interesting, try making it symmetrical over a diagonal line, instead of being symmetrical across the X or Z axis. Not many people do this, but it looks interesting and presents some unique building challenges.
  
• It's easy to end up only using a few different shapes in your builds. If you're stuck in a rut with the style or shape of your builds, try looking up real architectural styles, like Gothic, Roman, Art Deco, etc.. Try to figure out what makes that style different from other styles, and incorporate those aspects into a build. This is also a good way to add more detail if you find your builds are plainer than you'd like.
  
• Don't forget about landscaping! Often, the difference between a nice but mediocre build and a stunning build is what surrounds it. If you're not sure what to do, try looking at gardens or parks in your chosen style.
  

Don't forget to leave a diamond if you find anything helpful! I'd also love to know if you're using my advice, or if you think there's anything I should add to this or future articles.

-swiftfire211