Architectural Styles Defined: Modernism, Brutalism, Deconstructivism
Brutalism: Raw Concrete & Social Housing
Brutalism, an architectural movement that emerged with Le Corbusier’s Unité d’Habitation, utilized raw concrete to construct affordable, rapid housing during the 1960s and 1970s. Though popular in Britain for social housing, many Brutalist buildings are now in poor condition and often criticized for their aesthetics and perceived links to social problems. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to preserve these unique structures.
Deconstructivism: Bold, Unconventional Design
Deconstructivism is a bold and unusual architectural style that began in the late 1980s. While it may appear strange, it is highly creative and intentionally deviates from clear rules or traditional design principles. Buildings in this style feature broken-up shapes, sharp angles, and elements that seem to clash rather than fit together, often creating an impression of instability or chaos. Deconstructivism was made possible by advanced computer software, originally developed for the aircraft industry, and is considered a significant part of Postmodern architecture.
Gehry’s Family Home: A Deconstructivist Icon
Frank Gehry’s own house, originally built in 1920, serves as a prime example of Deconstructivism. Gehry wrapped the existing exterior, leaving the old structure visible. He intentionally used unconventional and “poor” materials such as chain-link fence, corrugated aluminum, and unfinished plywood. To introduce light, he added glass cubes. The interior of the house is warm and bright, contrasting sharply with its raw, industrial, and fortress-like exterior. This unique dwelling was defined as a Deconstructivist postmodern collage, much to the dismay of Gehry’s neighbors, who were unaccustomed to such an unusual building in their neighborhood.
Modernist Architecture: Form Follows Function
Modernist architecture is a style that originated in the early 1900s, emerging as a response to significant societal and technological shifts. It remained prominent throughout the 20th century, emphasizing clear, practical design. The core principle of Modernism is “form follows function,” meaning a building’s shape should be dictated by its intended use. Architects deliberately avoided excessive decoration, opting instead for clean, simple shapes. Key features of Modernist architecture include:
- Asymmetrical (uneven) shapes
- Box-like or cube forms
- Flat roofs
- Open floor plans inside
- Large windows
- Minimal or no decoration
- Use of light colors like white or cream
Modernist buildings were frequently constructed with steel, glass, and reinforced concrete. The structural elements, such as metal frames, were often left exposed, highlighting the building’s construction.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architectural Legacy
Prairie Style: American Innovation
The Robie House (1908), designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is recognized as one of the first truly American-style homes. It is characterized by its long, low lines, distinctive rows of windows, and a striking ribbon of white stone set against red brick walls. Wright dedicated much of his career to designing family homes and pioneered the Prairie Style. This style featured flat roofs, wide overhangs, open interior spaces, and integrated terraces. Wright believed that the horizontal design of these homes reflected the flat landscape of the Midwest, imparting a sense of calm and shelter. The fireplace often served as the central focal point of the home.
Organic Architecture: Blending with Nature
Later in his career, Wright developed the concept of Organic Architecture, advocating for buildings that seamlessly blend with their natural surroundings and utilize modern materials rather than imitating historical styles. His most celebrated example of this philosophy is Fallingwater House (1937), famously built over a stream and waterfall in rural Pennsylvania. This iconic structure features wide concrete terraces and natural limestone walls. Its expansive windows create a strong visual connection between the interior and exterior, making the house feel intrinsically part of its natural environment.