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The main objective for this essay is to establish a clear understanding of Modernism. A way I’m going to achieve this is to define what Modernism is. This definition will soon be elaborated more by describing its characteristics and main governing principles which are of the Modern Architecture. These characteristics will include things such as spatial, formal, tectonic and broad contextual elements.
This definition will therefore create a better understanding of what influences Modern Architecture. I will therefore elaborate more and define what Modern Architecture is.
Once this is completed I will make a comparison between two buildings. On a South African building and an International building. The comparison of these two buildings is to establish a more defined theoretical as well as practical understanding of what Modernism is.
The two buildings in which I’m going to compare their modern architecture characteristics are:
A South African building known as, The Bosjes Chapel by Steyn Studio which is situated in the rural landscapes of the Western Cape.
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An International building known as, The Jubilee Church by Richard Meier which is situated in Rome.
Therefore, I will engage on a conclusion which indicates why both of these buildings can be classified as modern buildings that depict Modern Architecture.
Modernism is a philosophical movement that includes cultural change. It has ideas that arose from a wide-scale as well as a far reaching transformation which is in the Western Society between the late nineteenth and beginning of twentieth era.
Modernism is also known as a movement in the arts which started blossoming in the beginning of the twentieth century.
Its aim was to break with the traditions and forms of the past. Modernism had an understanding that people were solely motivated by self-belief. It also viewed reality since it was perceived as an absurd warranting parody.
Modernism is a movement or style that aims to depart significantly from the classical to the traditional forms.
Modernism can be considered as the current new way of thinking. The main objective is to create an outcome that looks very Modern. If you look at a Modern building, the exterior and interior finishes are very delicate but still give a clean look.
In order, to gain a clearer understanding of what are the influences of Modern Architecture is to define what Modern Architecture is.
Therefore, Modern Architecture can be referred to as the historic movement which started in Europe which later began to divert to various parts of the world during the early and mid-twentieth century. Modern architecture only began to be a success after World War 2.
Specifically, ‘modern’ depicts a style that is defined with a various principles while still being contemporary. To be clearer, it is the architecture that is among us today and is very flexible when it comes to its characteristics and features.
Modern Architecture is based on abstraction which, spatially is created using clean lines, basic shapes and forms. These simplified spatial arrangements and clear lines create the ‘modern’ look of modern architecture.
The honesty in materials to materials is significant especially because of the type of style. The most prominent materials found in modern buildings are concrete, glass, steel and wood. To convey more of the concept of truth in a modern building these materials are no to be covered with other materials. The main reason this must be done is because the aim of these buildings are to reflect what is in the inside to the outside vice versa.
This principle of honesty to the type of materials used play a vital role because materials are a governing principle of the building façade.
The overall structural form in modern architecture is to make sure that the purpose is the essence and that the function is a key objective. It also helps to indicate that the built space that we see is the result of the intended meaning and purpose behind it.
To best depict this principle is by taking Guggenheim Museum in New York, created by architect Frank Lloyd Wright as an example. This Museum depicts a ribbon that is being unfolded which is the depiction of the circulation of the people as they circulate around the piece of artworks displays and galleries within the museum.
Another prominent objective in modern buildings is that simplicity is the main core. This objective helps to establish the natural appreciation towards modernist buildings. Another reason that makes simplicity be of major importance is because the outcome of it creates an exquisite finish.
Most of modern buildings promote modern architecture by making use of strong and smooth lines. These lines indicate the defined horizontal and vertical elements within structure when in façade or plan. To elaborate more on this principle, Villa Savoye designed by Le Corbusier is a good example.
‘Few is more’ is a very important concept in modern buildings. It refers to the very subtle approach towards buildings meaning no unnecessary elements needed, just a portion of minimum elements driven by the purpose.
‘Open plan that has lots of glasses is also a prominent feature in modern buildings. This includes open interior floor plans with fewer wells. The exterior of the building makes use of materials such as glass, steel etc. The lines are more angled as well as straight rather than being curved, carved and gabled.
The connection to the outdoors is also of importance. This is simply because it helps to incorporate the typography of the land in which it is built on to the building’s design. An example of this principle that elaborates more of Falling water by architect Frank Lloyd in Pennsylvania.
In terms of form, tectonic, special and broad contextual elements in modern buildings, the use of basic shapes, plain geometric forms and rectangular shapes is of importance.
The perfect of example to get a clearer understanding of this is by taking Weissenhoff of Siedlung in Stuttgart in Germany as an example. This is a box-like building which has a flat roof, clean lines and cubic volume.
Functionality and open floor plan are also other influencer in modern buildings. To define functionality, it is performing means for an intended use. It relates to “form follows function” as well as the concept of open space.
Various common themes that inspire the characteristics of Modern Architecture:
The notion that depicts “form follows function” which was said by Frank Lloyd Wright.
In explanation, this notion means that the result of the design should derive directly from its purpose.
This means the true nature of the material is ought to be seen rather than the material being altered or concealed to represent something else.
For the South African modern building I chose to use, The Bosjes Chapel situated on a historical Cape Dutch farm in the Western Cape.
This new chapel is placed on a vineyard. In terms of form, this building is a magnificent sculptural form that emphasizes a silhouette effect of the surrounding mountain ranges. It plays true appreciation to the historic Cape Dutch gables dotting the farming landscapes of the Western Cape. In terms of materials, this Chapel is built from a thin concrete cast cover by the roof supporting itself since each dramatically rises and falls to the ground. This therefore means that each wave of the roof structure rises to a peak meaning there is an expansion of glazing that is joined centrally by a crucifix which helps to enhance the aesthetic effect of the façade.
In terms of the meaningful inspiration of the drawing, it is influenced by Psalm 36:7, which I quote states: “Your love is a treasure, and everyone finds shelter in the shadow of your wings”. The simple white form of the structure is interpreted as a characterized and lightweight structure which appears to be floating into the valley.
The reflective pond helps to emphasize the apparent non-weight of the structure. Another interesting element, this chapel rises from the flat land on which it sits upon, providing a hierarchical focal point amongst its neighboring surroundings. The green surrounding areas on this exposed site is created by planting which includes the vineyard and pomegranate orchard. These gardens help create a quiet and relaxed environment for the visitors.
Spatially, the inside is a large and open assembly spaced which significantly projected by the simple rectangular shaped plan. The highly polished terrazzo floors help with the reflection of light internally. The undulating ceiling casts which is white washed-like finish helps to depict the array of shadows which are present within the volume as the light intake changes throughout the day. The use of modest materials helps to convey a neutral background towards the magnificent framed views of the vineyard and mountains beyond.
Still structurally, a basement level is hidden and out of sight within the plinth. The main purpose for this basement level is to accommodate the services of the building and acts as the store room for the chapel benches.
Structurally, to maintain the form of the roof and assembly space to remain pure, other elements of the buildings functional programmers are hidden within the plinth or just discreetly within in the outer corners of the garden surrounding this building. Inside, the underside of the roof is exposed within a single volume assembly space.
The inspiration behind the simplicity of this Chapel is immensely influenced by the Moravian Mission Stations established on the Cape Dutch farms in the ninetieth century. The chapel has a sense of significance in relation to its natural surroundings. Therefore, meaning it lacks a spire,
The open embrace that invites one into the chapel is also a space that is extended outwards into the valley and mountains beyond. Which helps with the raising of the awareness of God’s creation among the immediate environment.
To conclude, the main objective for constructing Bosjes Chapel was to rejuvenate Bosjes Farm. To articulate more of this rejuvenation, this chapel is alongside a new restaurant and renovated boutique guesthouse.
In terms of tectonic and broad contextual elements, to achieve the unique shotcrete roof form was a challenge. Experimentation of making use of 3D computer soft wares assisted to calculate the volume as well as constructing a models of a bearable scale to explore the structural logistics assisted immensely in achieving this roof. To create the undulating curves of the roof, prefabricate timber trusses were assembled. While, the stability of this roof as a ‘floating’ structure was portrayed by four hidden reinforced concrete buttresses. Another difficulty was the connection between the glazed walls and undulating roof. This therefore, resulted in each of the connection to have a unique design.
The glaze elements are orientated in such a way that solar increases are limited during peak hours. An overhang in the roof is provided as an additional solar shading and to create an entrance that is protected. Due to having deep issues with the roof plan, rainwater increases and is collected into the reflection pond through a submerged pumping cast that travels into the concrete.
Lastly, the main purpose for this chapel is to provide a venue in which the rich cultural heritage of the farm can be re-discovered and the creation of a magnificent facility for the neighboring residents can appreciate for years to come.
The Jubilee Church located in Rome. The primary function of this church was to uplift the community and the area in which it is located in. It is known as one of the most astonishing buildings.
What makes this building an iconic modern building is the exquisite forms found within the building which are inspired by the purity of the sphere and cube.
This church has a triangle shaped configuration site which is divided into four different parts:
The form of this church therefore results in the generating of various type of shapes which along with them has a massive concrete quantity which allows to control the temperature of the internal space. This helps to decrease the amount of energy consumption.
Spatially, in the interior space of this church you can find relating religious ideas. The internal space clearly depicts that it was carefully designed so that it would immensely consider Christian beliefs but at the same time providing a space that has purpose. Internally, the main captivator when you enter this enormous building is the organ, it is inter-joined in a cubical element, which is a shape that is believed to stand at the base of Christianity.
In terms of tectonic and broad contextual elements, the most attracting thing about this building is the large effect of the three concrete shells that arch in an increasing height of 56 to 88 feet. The shape of these concrete shells is derived from the shape of the sphere. Another interesting element about these concrete shells are in comparison with the rest of the structure because of their round shape. Between them and on top the designers placed glass ceilings and skylights so the interior of this church is over-flooded and captivated with as much natural light as possible which once again, connects with the idea of this being a central influencer in Christian religion. During night time, the church’s presence is very significant because of the light travels from within which therefore illuminates the surrounding landscape.
The form projects a series of spaces which with massive concrete mass control the internal temperature which controls the energy intake. Internally, the conceptual religious ideas can also be found. Spatially, the internal space was designed so that it would appreciate Christian beliefs but at the same time provide a fully functioning space with a purpose. The main interior self-captivating element in the church is the organ. The organ is inter-connected in a cubical element which is another shape that stands at the base of Christianity.
The exterior site is laid out in two parts:
The Western side which features separate courts which are separated by a paved causeway and a recreational garden.
The second court featuring a reflecting pool which provides a relaxation space for visitors.
On an urban approach, this Church has become a magnificent distinguished element for its region. Simply because of the perfectly balanced proportions and forms along with the materials. The colors of this church generate a magnificent example of how modern churches should be treated and provides an inspiration for any architectural projects.
To conclude, both buildings are Modern buildings. This is simply because both buildings have characteristics which are greatly influenced by the characteristics of Modern architecture.
Firstly, both buildings are very modern. The emphasis of the ‘modern’ look of these buildings are due to the type of materials used as well as the simplicity of the spatial arrangement. Also, the way in which the materials are used for both buildings is very simplistic.
In terms of function, both buildings are used as a place where the community can integrate. They are both places of worship. This therefore, includes the common theme of modern architecture which is “form follows function”.
The only contrast of these buildings in terms of form is that the exterior of each building is designed to be site specific. For instance, the main purpose if each building is to appreciate its surroundings. This is because if you were to locate The Bosjes Chapel in Rome it will lose its function, especially since the shape of the concrete cast shells is a depiction of the mountains on the rural landscapes. So, locating it in Rome would lose this characteristic. Just like, if you were to put The Jubilee Church in the outskirts of the Western Cape the arch shape of the concrete shells would lose its purpose.
This therefore concludes that both buildings are a great example of Modern Architecture.
Characteristics And Main Governing Principles Of The Modern Architecture. (2024, Feb 29). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/characteristics-and-main-governing-principles-of-the-modern-architecture-essay
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