Modern Architecture

9 Pages 2163 Words

economical aspect of construction as well, so any unnecessary detail or ornament would consequently add to the cost of the building, negating an important principle of the new architecture.
According to Hitchcock and Johnson, “in the buildings of the past, support and protection were both provided by the same masonry wall.” [H&J, 56] Now, “isolated supports, piers of metal or reinforced concrete, are, however, normal and typical.” [H&J, 36] This type of construction enabled architects to design plans with more liberty and openness. The solid brick bearing walls had no true meaning in the new language. A new prime architectural symbol rose, which was the open box. “The plan can be composed almost entirely in terms of the needs it must provide for” [H&J, 56], looking back at functionality.
Consequently Hitchcock and Johnson state that, “the architect who builds in the international style seeks to display the true character of his construction and to express clearly his provision for function.” [H&J, 59] Within this statement they also bring the principle of using flat roofs due to their simplicity and usefulness.
Needless to say, windows/openings also have a very important role in the international style. H&J point out that, “windows constitute a more important element in modern architecture than they have in [the past].” [H&J, 61] “The glass department stores of 1900 suggest, such maximal fenestration was a preparation for the development of a more general principal of modern design.” [H&J, 61]
Following fenestration arises the issue of decorations or ornaments. Hitchcock and Johnson felt that, “the contemporary style will in time develop an ornament of its own as did the styles of the past.” [H&J, 86] Not all types of ornamentations are prohibited under this principle. The use of lettering is totally accepted. Both Hitchcock and Johnson claim that, “lettering is the nearest approac...