Architects and Structures of the Postmodern Style
Postmodern architecture is a style developed during the 1950s that continues to inspire the architecture of today. It manifests of structures with elaborate ornamentation that includes fascinating lines and curves. It is basically focused on creating a unique exterior that is aesthetically pleasing to the viewer. It usually contains the elements of surprise and irony, contradiction and of course, originality. It combines the physical characteristics of using sculptural forms and ornaments to blend with its conceptual characteristics. The structures usually have high ceilings, flying buttresses and extravagant facades. Generally, postmodern structures are noted of its extravagant forms and the meaning conveyed in the building.
Postmodernism developed in answer to the limitations of modern architecture. It started in America and later spread in Europe and other countries. It developed with the aim of reintroducing ornaments and decors that will complement the functionalism of the buildings in modern architecture.
The development of postmodern style of structure is influenced by many architects. Several advocates of postmodern architecture are Michael Graves, Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown, and Charles Moore. Michael Grave’s famous works include the Portland Building in Oregon that uses ornamental triuangular forms, and the Humana Building in Kentucky. The couple’s Venturi and Brown are famous for their architectural style of using cultural icons. This is evident in their building located in Celebration, Florida with a 50’s diner theme. Their Vanna Venturi house which uses symmetry and arches also exhibits symbolism that is important in this architectural style.
The Piazza d’Italia in Louisiana is a famous work by Charles Moore. The structure mimics that of an Italian culture compressed in a compound incorporated with many color, shapes and angles, all reminiscent of postmodern architecture. Other architects that influenced the postmodern style include Ricardo Bofill, Philip Johnson, Cesar Pelli, Peter Eisenman, Jon Jerde and James Stirling among others.
Other examples of this architectural style are evident in the Sony Building in New York, which incorporates color, double coding and symbolism. It is a skyscraper connoted with modern technology and yet, has an element of classical antiquity in the top portion of the building. The Las Vegas Strip in Las Vegas is also a vital structure reminiscent of the postmodern architecture. Other postmodern structures also include the Hood Museum of Art that has a symmetrical façade and the Brion-Vega Cemetery which is manifested with the sensitive characteristic of postmodern structures that is solemn but not depressing to its vistors.
Postmodern style in general is built based on function and humor whose structures are beautiful, fun, and amusing to look at. GP
Posted in Postmodern Architecture on September 21, 2008 - 11:31 pm by admin |
