The Function of Form in Architecture: Louis Sullivan and the Modernist Movement
1. Introduction:
In architecture, the central idea that should provide direction for every architect is the function that the building will perform, so the form of the building should follow its function. This was the principle that Louis Sullivan developed and preached, and it became the foundation of the new modernism in architecture.
2. The Centrality of Function in Sullivan’s Work:
Sullivan believed that “form follows function.” To Sullivan, this meant that the shape of a building should be dictated by the purpose for which it was built. For example, a factory should not be designed like a church because their functions are different. This dictum became known as Sullivan’s First Law of Architecture and is still followed by architects today.
3. The New Modernism and Functionalism:
The new modernism in architecture was based on functionalism, which is the principle that form should follow function. This approach to design was first proposed by Louis Sullivan in the late 19th century and then further developed by architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe in the early 20th century. Functionalism became the dominant style of architecture in the mid-20th century because it was seen as a more efficient way to design buildings.
4. The New Society and Architecture:
The changes in society during the early 20th century had a profound effect on architecture. The rise of the modernist movement was a response to the industrialization and urbanization of society. Architects such as Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe sought to create a new type of architecture that would be more suited to the needs of the modern world. Their work laid the foundation for what is now known as modernist or international style architecture.
In conclusion, the form of a building should follow its function. This was the principle that Louis Sullivan developed and preached, and it became the foundation of the new modernism in architecture. The new modernism in architecture was based on functionalism, which is the principle that form should follow function. This approach to design was first proposed by Louis Sullivan in the late 19th century and then further developed by architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe in the early 20th century.
The changes in society during the early 20th century had a profound effect on architecture. The rise of the modernist movement was a response to the industrialization and urbanization of society. Architects such as Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe sought to create a new type of architecture that would be more suited to the needs of the modern world. Their work laid the foundation for what is now known as modernist or international style architecture.