Generally, modernism can be considered as one of the most optimistic styles in architecture. One of the key aspects of this architectural style is that it draws from the notions of utopia and innovation. It also re-imagines how humans in contemporary society would live, work, and interact with each other.
The philosophy of Modernism is used greatly in today’s architectural discourses. Here we’ve listed some of the wonderful styles that defined modernism in architecture:
1. Bauhaus
The German word ‘Bauhaus’ literally translates as ‘construction house’. It was founded by Walter Gropius in 1919 and originated as a German school for architecture and arts. Bauhaus also served as a template for many of the future architectural schools.
This became a distinctive style, which emphasized function and minimal ornamentation. It also emphasized on the fusion of abstract shapes and balanced forms.
2. De Stijl
This style of architecture was founded in 1917. The Dutch word ‘De Stijl’ literally means ‘the style’. It originated in the Netherlands. De Stijl is believed to have been at its peak during the period between 1917 and 1931. This style includes reducing the design to essential colors and forms. It does this with simple vertical and horizontal elements, and the use of white, black, and primary colors.
3. Constructivism
This style of architecture emerged in the Soviet Union. Constructivism was an excellent combination of Russian Futurist influence and technological innovation. As a result of this combination, some abstract but stylish geometric masses were created.
Unfortunately, this style didn’t become so popular and became less favored by the 1930s. Some of the well-known Russian constructivist architects are Vladimir Tatlin and El Lissitzky.
4. Expressionism
It co-existed with the Bauhaus architecture between 1910 and 1930. Expressionism was defined by organic, biomorphic, and emotional forms, which contrasted with the linear and clean definitions of Bauhaus. This style of architecture was derived from the Austrian, Czech, German, Dutch, and Danish avant-garde.
With the mass production of glass, steel, and brick, new technical possibilities had emerged in architecture. Expressionism explored these possibilities in a brilliant way, while also evoking utopian visions and unusual massings.
5. Functionalism
Emerging after World War I, Functionalism is an architectural style associated with modern humanism and socialism. It’s based on the principle that a building’s design must reflect its function and purpose. This architectural style developed through the 1930s in Poland, Germany, USSR, Czechoslovakia, and the Netherlands.
The idea central to Functionalism is that ‘form follows function. The principle was to use architecture as a means to create a better life for people physically.
6. Minimalism
Minimalism focuses on the use of simplistic design elements that are free from decoration or ornamentation. It evolved in the 1920s from the Bauhaus and De Stijl movements in architecture. This style was popularized by some famed architects, such as Mies van der Rohe. The features of this architectural style are plain materials, pure geometric forms, clean lines, and repetition.
7. Metabolism
This was a Japanese movement, which began after the Second World War. It infused the giant structures with organic biological growth. Metabolism as a style of architecture was influenced by biological processes and Marxist theories. In 1960, a Metabolism manifesto was published by a group of young designers.
They included Kisho Kurokawa, Kiyonori Kikutake, and Fumihiko Maki. As a result, the style received significant public attention. The characteristics of Metabolism include prefabrication, modularity, adaptability, and core infrastructures of greater strength.