Kaufmann House: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Organic Architecture
Kaufmann House: An Architectural Marvel
The Kaufmann House, also known as Fallingwater, is a masterpiece by Frank Lloyd Wright (1869-1959). Wright’s architecture seamlessly integrates with its natural environment, a departure from traditional American building styles. Commissioned by Edgar Kaufmann as a second home, it was built near a waterfall on rocks between 1934 and 1936. This project marked a turning point in Wright’s career, initiating his second prolific period of international recognition and success. This era also led to the creation of the Guggenheim Museum in New York (1957-1959), a culmination of his search for continuous space.
Wright is considered a precursor of the organic architecture movement, which fully developed after 1930. The house showcases a unique front and back design, utilizing materials such as concrete, natural stone, painted iron, glass, and aluminum. The three-story structure is staggered to accommodate the rocky terrain and the waterfall. The foundation sits directly on the natural rock, which also forms the base of the chimney. An impressive terrace extends horizontally over the waterfall, creating the illusion that the water emerges from the building itself.
The exterior integrates seamlessly with the environment, with natural stone walls reminiscent of river rocks. Large windows in aluminum frames and glass open to terraces, extending the interior space into the surrounding landscape. The ground floor houses the living room and kitchen, while the bedrooms are located upstairs. The concept of space is centrifugal, with the interior space designed first, rather than the exterior. The building’s stability is ensured by a solid central block that acts as a counterweight.
Modern Movement and Organicism
The Kaufmann House is a prime example of the Modern Movement, specifically within the realm of organicism. It represents a break from traditional artistic norms. While rationalist architecture was popular in the 1930s, organicism emerged as a new concept, moving away from the urban utopias of Le Corbusier and the dehumanization of forms. Wright is considered the creator and central figure of this movement.
Historical Context
The house was built in 1935, during the 20th century. Its function is to be inhabited, providing a comfortable living space with views of the surrounding landscape.
Influences and Principles
Wright’s work was influenced by Louis Sullivan, from whom he developed the organismic language, based on intuition and creative freedom. Organicism is the opposite of rationalism, which organizes architectural design from a preconceived ideal plan.
Interwar Period
The interwar period (1918-1939) was marked by significant changes in international relations, the rise of authoritarian regimes, and rapid technological advancements. The 1920s saw a huge development of capitalism, followed by a major crisis in the 1930s. The United States took over the creative lead from Europe, which was experiencing a crisis due to the aggressive policies of totalitarian states leading to World War II. This period saw the development of modern architecture with less intellectual pretensions than in Europe.