Reading Comprehension 6.

[1] A common theme of the early twentieth century found in Roth, Harwood, and Massey set the tone for an understanding of styles in architecture and design influenced by fine art. Selecting either Arts + Crafts or Art Nouveau, TRACE the influences of the selected style in more than two nations. In your answer, you should include evidence from the readings and at least two annotated images as support for your analysis of influences. [15 POINTS POSSIBLE]

- Art Nouveau designers were concerned with not only the exterior, but the interior and every characteristic within the space as well. "To create a fully integrated and contemporary environment was the pivotal aim of the movement" (Massey 32-33). One huge characteristic of this period was the use of the free flowing line and curves. Additionally, new technological advancements such as the use of exposed metal framework in interiors defined this movement.

The influences of the Art Nouveau movement can be seen all over the world. In Brussels, Belgium the influence can be seen in the interior of the Tassel house. The use of slim iron columns in this space are something that has not been seen in Belgium until now. The glazed roof and the use of the small columns allow light to flow into the flowing space. The designer Victor Horta uses the free flowing line to create a continuous fluidity that connects the floors, walls, ceilings, and iron work.

France soon became influenced by the Art Nouveau movement as designers visited Brussels and became exposed to this new wave of design. The Castel Beranger apartments designed by Hector Guimard is a by product of Belgium Art Noueveau influence. Although much of the building was designed prior to meeting Victor Horta, designer Guimard was inspired by Horta's work and still incorporated as many details as he could that were reflective of what he saw in Brussels. The apartment complex contains the same fluid, continuous free flowing line. Additionally, throughout the building the use of thin iron is present as well as asymmetrical characteristics and ornament that is reflective of nature which are all elements of Art Nouveau.

Berlin, Germany is another place that Art Nouveau spread to. The Havana Tobacco Company cigar chop was designed by Van de Velde. The store is characterized by Art Nouveau influence but it also adapts a German style that differs to that seen in France. The store contains the similar curvature in a much more dramatic manner, and focuses on symmetry rather than France's asymmetrical approach.

Tassel House

Castel Beranger, Massey pg. 38

Havana Tobacco Company, Massey pg. 43

[2] Originating at the Bauhaus and in the work of LeCorbusier, the so-called Modern movement deeply influenced design and architecture of the twentieth century. The great debate raised by this new approach to design involved the presence of the machine in the design process and final products. SPECULATE about the implications of “machines for living” and the famous dictum “less is more” on design today. Use at least one ARTIFACT, SPACE, or BUILDING in your answer, providing a salient image (cited) and annotation to help bolster your argument. [10 POINTS POSSIBLE]

- The modern movement beginning in the 20th century was a turning point in history as architecture turned completely away from symbolic and religious meaning. This new point in time was seeking a whole new expression. The goal was to reduce architecture to something utilitatian that reflected the spirit of the machine age. Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe reflected on what architecture should resemble as he said, "...architecture being an expression of technical power" (Roth 526). There became a celebration of the machine, and factories even became a model for design. The simplistic, logical factors behind factory construction were viewed favorable as it satisfied the idea that "less is more." Spaces began to be designed with a purpose in mind, holding on to the idea that machines are for living.

The Apple store in New York City designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson is a present day example of a building and space that was influenced by the ideas of the beginning modernists. Gropius had stated that architecture should be "...radiant and naked, unencumbered by lying facades and trickeries" (Roth 524). The Apple Store stays true to the beliefs of Gropius. The glass cube that sits above ground is made possible by the advancement in machinery and the use of glass. It speaks a message of transparency and honesty. The plan of the store is open, free flowing and highly functionally. The minimal use of materials and lack of ornamentation shows that less is really more and additionally it allows the apple products to speak for themselves. The products in themselves additionally are reflective of the idea that machines are part of everyday life.

Apple Store

Apple Products

[3] From the assigned pages in Roth, Harwood, and Massey, SELECT an image that you believe explodes the notion that Modern interiors and objects were black and white. Fully RENDER your own design exploration of that image through color, material, and light and appropriately annotate and cite the image to prove this point. [5 POINTS POSSIBLE]

- The Laroche House in Paris, France designed by Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret is an example of an interior that is depicted as being black and white. The first two images are of the same place, and it appears that the environment is designed to be very clean with white washed walls. I was surprised to see how the interior actually is with walls exploding with color and very bright artwork.

Laroche House 1928, Harwood pg. 630