Modern architecture
How would you define "Modernism"?
Modernism is a style that emerged in the late 19th century / at the beginning of the 20th century in response to large-scale changes in both technology and society.
It is associated with the function of buildings, a rational use of materials and, in its late forms, in the elimination of ornament and decoration.
Modernism developed across all artistic fields as means of accommodating and responding to the new technologies of machines, automation and urban design. The Industrial Revolution played a major role in the development of architecture driven by functional priority.
What does the aphorism "less is more" mean? Who coined it?
This quote by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe represents his rational approach to the creative process of architectural design (minimalism).
When and why was Postmodernism born?
P. was born in the 1970s as a reaction to Modernism and its emphasis on functionality and simplicity.
It reached its peak during the 1980s and early 1990s.
Who designed the "Rain Vortex", the tallest indoor waterfall in the world?
Moshe Safide - Jewel Changi Airport
Which architect was inspired by van der Rohe’s Farnsworth house?
Philip Johnson (Glass house).
What are the characteristics of early modernism? And of late modernism?
Early modern = use of a variety of historical styles; use of new materials and structural methods (cast iron, steel,..) as a result of the new industrial needs.
Late modern = lack of ornament; emphasis on rectangular forms and horizontal and vertical lines; use of modern and traditional materials in a new, simplified way; emphasis on honesty of materials; relationship between interior spaces and sites (use of glass); open, flowing interior spaces; natural light.
Fallingwater is a masterpiece by Frank Lloyd Wright. Why is it considered an example of "organic architecture"?
Because Wright aimed to put the occupants of the house in close relationship with the natural environment. The house is perched over a waterfall running under part of the building; all the walls are constructed of native stone, the horizontal elements are concrete, the floors are paved in stone and the woodwork is walnut.
This building is an example of organic architecture because it is characterized by the use of natural materials and native materials - according to the site of the building.
What does the word "starchitect" mean? Name at least 4 starchitects that you know.
= a very famous architect, especially one who has designed a well-known building in the recent past.
Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry, Jean Nouvel, Renzo Piano, Santiago Calatrava..
Who is the architect and designer that is considered the father of Nordic modernism?
Name one of his projects and describe it.
Alvar Aalto.
Main works: Villa Mairea, Baker House (student dormitory for MIT), Finland Hall and Essen opera house, Paimio Sanatorium, Viipuri Library
Who is the contemporary architect who also launched a limited edition of luxury furnishing, such as the fiberglass coffee table inspired by Star Wars Princess Leia?
Zaha Hadid.
What is the Chicago School of Architecture famous for?
They are especially famous for their skyscrapers: thanks to the use of metal skeleton frame to support the load of the building, skyscrapers can now be taller and taller.
Also, the use of the steel frame with masonry cladding makes the building fireproof.
What did Walter Gropius found? What are the main features of this movement?
The Bauhaus. Its aim was to create a simple, plain style of design in all fields, from architecture to furniture and graphic design.
Why did Robert Venturi say that "less is a bore"?
It was a provocation against the quote "Less is more" by Mies van der Rohe that reflects the focus on minimalism of late modernism architects.
What are the main features of Norman Foster's style? Name and describe one of his major works.
- energy problem solving;
- high-tech architecture;
- environmental impact reduction.
Major works: 30 St Mary Axe; London City Hall, Apple Park,..
Which architect, among the ones we've studied, is famous for his bridges? Pick one of his projects and describe it.
Santiago Calatrava.
Main bridges: Bac de Roda, Ponte della Costituzione, Puente de la mujer..
What are the main features of "Art Noveau"?
- free, creative forms inspired by nature;
- use of exposed iron and large, irregularly shaped pieces of glass;
- extensive use of arches and curves forms, curved glass, plant-like embellishments, mosaics, stained glass, Japanese motifs.
What are the "Five Points of Architecture" according to Le Corbusier?
1. the pilotis;
2. the garden roofs;
3. the free plant;
4. the ribbon window;
5. the free façade.
What are the most important features of contemporary architecture?
- re-use of old buildings;
- organic architecture;
- use of recyclable materials;
- green architecture;
- de-constructivism;
- High Tech.
What are the major features of Jean Nouvel's architecture?
- influence of history, literature, painting and cinema in his works;
- projects developed through a continuous reflection on a series of topics;
- great use of lightness, transparency and immateriality.
Who designed the Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao? Describe the building.
Frank Gehry.
The building has a different shape on each side: on the side of the river it looks like a ship; from above the building’s plan resembles a flower, with petals spreading out around a central atrium.
It is mainly made of titanium and stone slabs.
Describe the "Chicago window".
It is a 3-part window consisting of a large, fixed center panel between two smaller sash windows.
Who was Antoni Gaudí? What are his major works?
Gaudí was the most famous Spanish modernist architect.
He is famous for some residential buildings, such as Casa Batlló and Casa Milá, for the church "Sagrada Familia" and the private park "Park Güell"
Postmodernism has had an enormous influence on interior design as well. What are the major features in this field?
The use of vibrant colours and unusual shapes to create eclectic and exciting environments.
Who designed the “Shard”? Describe the building.
Designed by Renzo Piano and built between 2000 and 2012, it is the 7th tallest building in Europe. It is a versatile building, because it has both private and public space. It is used by citizens; inside you can find hotels, restaurants, art galleries,..
Made of glass, it reflects light coming from different perspectives, thus making its surface colours changeable.
Which architect combined the advantages of suburban homes with the density of a modern condominium as a way to reduce land waste in America?
Moshe Safdie - Habitat 67