One of the most optimistic styles in the history of architecture is Modernism. Joseph Cianciotto an architect from San Francisco is in love with this style of architecture and delves into the art form to understand the way its function. This is why his work heavily depicts the aesthetics of modernism, postmodernism, and neo-futurism. The midcentury designs particularly draw his attention because of the perfect blend of the old world and the elements of modern architecture.
Modernism is an influence on architecture that effortlessly incorporates minimalism while focusing on the functionality of the constructed structure. The embellishments are done away with and the focus shifted to more horizontal lines. Simplicity is the essence of this form of architecture. There are various styles that could be considered within the domain of modernism in architecture.
Bauhaus – this was originally a school for architecture in Germany. Eventually, the name was lent to a style of architecture that laid emphasis on little ornamentation, a fusion of abstract shapes and balanced forms. Its primary focus was the functionality of the building that was being constructed. The name Bauhaus was derived from a German word meaning ‘construction house’.
De Stijl – this was founded in the year 1917 and inspired several modern-day architects such as Joe Cianciotto. The meaning of the word in Dutch is ‘The style’ and it originated in the Netherlands. Following the lines of modernism, this too included the minimization of the design to just forms and colors. There were simple horizontal vertical elements and the usage of a lot of black and white colors.
Constructivism – at about the same time that the art form was developing in France and
Germany, this version of modernism became popular in the Soviet Union. This fused the technological innovations with the influence of the Russian futurist. This ultimately culminated in extensive geometric masses that were both stylish and abstract.
Expressionism – became the other version of modernism but it was distinct from constructivism as it did not involve much of linear forms. Instead, there was an abundance of organic, biomorphic, and emotional forms. This form of architecture exhibited utopian visions and unusual massing.
The other types of modernism evolved in the mid-19th century, the most favorite time in history to Joseph Cianciotto. The first of them was functionalism which mirrored the basic concept of modernism that the purpose of a building should be reflected by it along with its function. There is an association between socialism and modern humanism with this architectural form.
Next came the concept of minimalism. It is said to have evolved from the Bauhaus and De Stijl which emphasized doing away with adornments and decorations. Geometric patterns, clean lines, repetition, and plain materials are the elements of this style. In the year 1932 came the international style. This was prevalent in the United States; the monolithic skyscrapers with flat roofs, ubiquitous glazing, and curtain wailing characterized this architectural form. The other styles of modernism in the mid-19th century were brutalism and metabolism.
