Week 12- Modernism in America (part one)

 

Week 11- Modernism in America (part one)

Chapter 23,34

Origins and Spread of Modernism

• Started in Germany and France: Modernism began as a revolutionary shift in design, particularly in Europe.
• Global Influence: The movement quickly spread across the globe, fueled by exhibitions, journals, books, and travel.
• Post-World War II: Modernism emerged as a response to the devastation of World War II, both in Europe and worldwide.
• Migration of Founders: Many founders of Modernism fled Europe due to the impact of the World Wars, finding refuge in Britain or America.
• Bauhaus Influence: The closing of the Bauhaus school in 1933 pushed many designers to the United States, further cementing Modernism's rise in America.
• Theoretical vs. Practical: Pre-war Modernism was more idealistic and theoretical, while post-war Modernism became more practical and applied.

Key Figures in Modernism

Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959)]

• Revolutionizing Architecture: Wright was a pivotal figure, even though his work was not included in the influential “The International Style” exhibition.
• Japan Influence: After returning from Japan in 1922, Wright produced fewer works but left lasting marks on American architecture.
• Iconic Works:
• Hollyhock House (1921): A monumental structure built for Aline Barnsdall in Los Angeles, designed with poured concrete and cast geometric ornament.
• Fallingwater (1936): One of his most famous designs, this house was built for the Kaufmann family in Pennsylvania, blending nature and modern design.
• S.C. Johnson Company Office Building (1936-39): A creative use of daylighting and innovative furniture design.
• Taliesin Fellowship: A group of young apprentices who studied directly with Wright, continuing his architectural legacy.

Rudolph Schindler (1887-1953)

• Innovative Designs: Schindler’s work was central to developing the “modern residential home,” with each home exploring new spatial possibilities.
• Schindler House (1922): Located in West Hollywood, this live/work space was constructed using tilt-slab concrete walls, pioneering a modern approach to home construction.
• Space Architecture: Schindler’s philosophy emphasized designing structures that catered to both space and interior needs.

Richard Neutra (1892-1970)

• California Modernism: Neutra brought European modernism to America, with a focus on integrating architecture with nature.
• Notable Works:
• Kaufmann House (1946): A sleek, geometric design in Palm Springs, California.
• Lovell House (1927): The first steel-framed house in the U.S., using concrete slabs and incorporating natural surroundings into the design.

William Lescaze (1896-1969)

• European Modernism in America: Lescaze brought Swiss modernism to the U.S. and was instrumental in designing the first American skyscraper.
• Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (1929-32): A collaboration with George Howe, this building marked a new era of skyscraper design in America.

Water Gropius and Marcel Breuer

• Gropius at Harvard: Invited to lead the Graduate School of Design, Gropius introduced the International Style to academia in the U.S.
• Architectural Contributions:
• Harvard Graduate Center: Gropius's first major modern buildings on the Harvard campus.

Miles van der Rohe (1886-1969)

• Minimalism in Architecture: Known for his minimalist ideals, van der Rohe’s work greatly influenced modern skyscraper design.
• Lake Shore Drive Apartments (1948-51): Glass skyscrapers in Chicago that became a model for modern urban architecture.

Philip Johnson (1906-2005)

• Bringing Modernism to America: Johnson played a crucial role in introducing European modernists like Le Corbusier and van der Rohe to the U.S.
• The Glass House (1949): A landmark design in New Canaan, Connecticut, showcasing minimalist architecture with all-glass walls.

 

Corporate Modernism

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)

• Pioneers of the Glass Skyscraper: This architectural firm played a key role in shaping the modern cityscape, designing iconic corporate buildings like the Lever House (1950) in New York and John Hancock Tower (1969) in Chicago.

Eero Saarinen (1910-1961)

• Innovative Industrial Designs: Saarinen was known for both his furniture and architectural designs.
• Notable Works:
• Kleinhans Music Hall: Achieved acoustic excellence in the first 20th-century American concert hall.
• First Christian Church (Columbus, Indiana): Famous for its unique, soaring architectural style.

One Step Further 

Perkins&Will 

Perkins&Will is a global architecture and design firm founded in 1935 by Lawrence Perkins and Philip Will, Jr. They believe design has the power to transform lives and enhance communities. The firm specializes in architecture, interior design, and other design services. 

The firm was established in Chicago in 1935 and has grown from a small operation to one of the largest architectural firms in the world. They offer a wide range of services, including architecture, interior design, urban design, landscape architecture, and more. Perkins&Will is recognized for its sustainable design expertise and innovative research. They have a strong commitment to creating buildings that are environmentally responsible. The firm has offices in numerous locations around the world. Perkins&Will has received numerous awards, including the American Institute of Architects "Firm of the Year Award" and the National Building Museum Honor Award for Civic Innovation.