Modernism Architecture

Architecture took different terns in Europe and the United States, then they became filled with concerete, steel, and glass. Through architecture, they were trying to change the world and their perspective of their surroundings. Modernist designers used concrete mostly to revolutionize and push the brink of a new socialist world. Many of the first Modern homes were artistic for the wealthy. On the other side, the public slowly and slugglishly took in the Modernist approach.

Advances in geomatry and early Modernist architecture created awe inspiring concrete ramps. For example, the Penguin Pool at the London Zoo has a smoothly spiraling ramp for the cold living animals. The same spirals can be seen every day on the open roads. Many concrete ramps have been built in the cities to help move traffic.

Buildings with horizontal windows demonstrate an idealistic use with planes of concrete, glass, steel, and marble. The simple use of rich materials provides beautiful highlights to their quality. The idea of creating horizontal windows is based off of Classical and Japanese designs.

An idea became popular for walls that brought in some light yet could not be seen through. This thought produced walls made of the latest glass bricks. These are often found in bathrooms instead of true windows. It is said these were homage to new building technology and to maximize sunlight.

In the Renaissance, pilotis were first created by Le Corbusier. He placed these glass walls to raise the first floors or in the living rooms in early white modern villas with white classical columns. The white and black are a direct contrast. Astoundingly, they lasted in architecture for many years.

There was a problem with the new architecture being created. The designs were in danger of causing new buildings that were too hot for comfort during the summer. To solve the upcoming problem, concrete was used to cool down the buildings. These were called brises-soleil, or sun-breaks, to block the sunlight.