Week 12- Modernism in America
This week in History of Interiors we learned about Modernism in America.
Modernism began in Germany and France, quickly spreading throughout the world as modernist moved to the US as a result of WWII, when Modernism became more practical and applied rather than theoretical and idealistic.
An American Architect, Frank Lloyd Wright in the 20’s and 30’s who did not fit the modernism international style. Wright spent several years in Japan, while also designing in California creating elaborate terraces and gardens with poured concrete and cast geometric ornament in the Hollyhock House.
Millard House was considered one of his most successful houses in the period, using textile blocks made from concrete decorative repeated patterns. Taliesin was built during this time, which was originally his home where he later invited apprentices to study.
In 1921 Wright the Architectural Forum which acknowledged his approach to modernism, featuring Fallingwater. During this time Wright also did some office projects, with large open office areas with innovative furniture design with swings on pivot drawers.
Another architect by the name of Rudolph Schindler was from Austria, initially collaborating with Wright, later starting his own practice, and building the Schindler house. He created the prototype for modern homes that each had a unique exploration of space. His space architecture created structure, space, and design for interior spaces. He used a combination of high-end materials and inexpensive materials to create beautiful homes.
Richard Neutra was an architect from Vienna, coming to the US, working for both Louis Sullivan and Wright, then starting his own practice where he valued individuality with a focus on art, architecture and landscaping in all of his projects. His designs were both geometric and airy, that were a west coast version of the Mid-century modern style. Neutra incorporates nature and its healing effects while also using harsh industrial materials such as steel and concrete.
William Lescaze was a Swiss Architect who came to America where he designed commercial buildings. Lescaze stayed on the east coast, starting his own practice and building the first ever skyscraper in America!
(William Lescaze- First Skyscraper) (Modern Day Application)
Water Gropius worked at Havard as the head of the graduate school of design and started his own firm, creating the first modern building at Havard, who worked with Marcel Breuer.
Mies van der Rohe was the director of Architecture at Armour Institute, where he planned a new minimalist building for the campus.
Philip Johnson studied under Gropius at Havard, later founding his own school, helping architects come to America, and having a long-lived career. He created the Glass House which was highly influenced by the Farnsworth House, using glass walls, brick, and walnut.
(Philip Johnson- Glass House) (Modern Day Application)
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill created an architectural and engineering firm which still exists today. They created a large variety of projects from skyscrapers to hotels and the John Hancock and Willis Tower in Chicago.
Eero Saarinen was a Finnish architect and industrial designer, working with his dad he established the Cranbook Academy and many iconic furniture pieces. Saarinen built musica halls, churches, and schools all throughout the Midwest.
(Eero Saarinen- Womb Chair) (Modern Day Application)
One Step Further:
The architect that I wanted to talk about was Eero Saarinen, who not only created furniture, churches and schools but also the Gateway Arch in Saint Louis Missouri! Not only is the arch 630 ft tall, one can actually travel all the way to the top, using small spere elevators. Built in 1963, the arch was made from stainless steel, creating an iconic symbol that has lasted the test of time.
This post does a great job highlighting how Modernism evolved in America through key architects and specific architectural projects.
ReplyDeleteI love how you found so many modern applications for the womb chair and how you studied Eero Saainen and his work on the Gateway Arch.
ReplyDeleteSami this post gives us a great look at how Modernism evolved in America. You did such a great job! Your one step further was very interesting!
ReplyDeleteI like your one step further on Eero Saarinen. I did not know he created the famous arch in St. Louis. You gave a good summary on important architects during modernism in America.
ReplyDeleteSami,
ReplyDeleteOutstanding summary of the beginnings of Modernism. You provided comprehensive and interesting information and images of all of the major architects and designers of this time. I enjoyed hearing about the three Architects who not only designed buildings but became educators at prestigious universities. I loved your current day womb chair. Focusing on Eero Saarinen in more depth was a great ending to your Blog. 50/50 points