Modern Architecture Evolution: Post-War to 1960s
The Future of Architecture in Italy
Examples of modern, cutting-edge architecture include the Fiat car factory. In Germany, there was an exhibition on modern art. Nazi ideology brutally influenced pictures, posters, films, and public buildings. Hitler was regarded as the artist of the nation. An important work from this period is the Olympic Stadium.
Modern Masters After World War II
World War II disrupted the architectural impulse that gave rise to modern architecture. However, modern architecture triumphed on the international scene after the war.
Wright
At this time, Frank Lloyd Wright was focused on the Guggenheim Museum project in New York. Wright designed a structure articulated from a circular body and a central volume in the form of an inverted truncated cone. His works are considered individual monuments of high quality. Other notable works include the Johnson Wax workshops and the Hartford Club, known for its naturalism. The Marin County Civic Center also stands out.
Mies van der Rohe
Continuing his study of modern architecture, Mies van der Rohe emphasized two topologies: the pavilion and the skyscraper.
Le Corbusier
Le Corbusier’s expressive buildings gained appreciation. Important works include the Chapel of Notre-Dame du Haut and the Monastery of La Tourette.
Walter Gropius
After several years, Walter Gropius created the TAC group, dedicated to large corporations. The post-war 1950s saw regional diversity and architectural renovation. The architecture of the 1950s in the West was very different, characterized by a highly industrialized society.
Scandinavia: Aalto
The new empiricism, an organic architecture, developed in Scandinavia. This new empiricism was characterized by high-quality architecture. In Denmark, the most important architect was Arne Jacobsen. Alvar Aalto, a contemporary architect, incorporated a taste for traditional materials, such as wood, in his works. Villa Mairea is considered a masterpiece of modernity. He lectured in Massachusetts, where he was responsible for the Baker House dormitory building.
United States: Saarinen
Eero Saarinen’s architecture is known for its leadership qualities. After 1945, important works include the Glass House. He initially worked in his father’s studio but had many solo projects. His work is divided into two groups: parallelepiped blocks in the rationalist style and expressionist style works.
South America
The method of projecting modern architecture developed with a high level of quality and quantity. Lucio Costa was appointed director of the School of Fine Arts. Oscar Niemeyer worked with Costa, and his first work was the Brazil Pavilion. His work also included the Pampulha Casino.
Third Generation
The last Congress called for a transformation of the Athens Charter to meet the needs of more and more users. Team X believed in the modern movement.
British Brutalism
The most important members of Team X were Alison and Peter Smithson, who created New Brutalism. A source of inspiration was Le Corbusier’s housing units. The years 1967-68 were very important for architecture due to the publication of theoretical books.
Technology and Megastructures
Archigram magazine was an important focus of architecture where architects published utopian proposals. It was heavily influenced by Futurism.
Metabolism
The Japanese Metabolism group gained fame in the West from the 1950s. Kenzo Tange stands out as a key figure. They were heavily influenced by Western architecture, particularly Le Corbusier. Among his most important works is the Shizuoka Press and Broadcasting Center. The Tokyo Olympic Stadium is also noteworthy. His latest work is the new Tokyo City Hall.
Tokyo: The New Monumentality
Louis Kahn is considered a master in the treatment of light. His work is characterized by basic geometric shapes. One of his most famous works is the Parliament of Dhaka.