Form follows function
‘Form follows function’ is a principle that proposes a building’s purpose should be the starting point for its design rather than its aesthetics. As an axiom, it is associated with modernist architects in the early-20th century, and can be termed 'functionalism'.
The phrase (which was actually 'form ever follows function'), was first coined by the American architect Louis Sullivan who helped develop the first steel skyscrapers in late-19th century Chicago. This period was a transformative one for architecture, as the new technologies and construction methods that developed during the Industrial Age meant that old and established styles could be adapted or replaced.
The principle suggested that, rather than buildings being designed in accordance with past precedents or stylistic trends, the purpose of the building would determine its form. The axiom became a touchstone for modernist architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright (who was an apprentice of Sullivan), who held that ‘form and function are one’, and rendered decorative elements as ‘ornamental’ and ‘superfluous’.
Many high-profile contemporary architects, such as Renzo Piano and Zaha Hadid, and designers of post-modern, high-tech buildings, have been criticised for their overt focus on form as opposed to practicality and functionality.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Aesthetics and architecture.
- Aesthetics and performance.
- Architectural styles.
- Bauhaus.
- Building design.
- Chicago school of architecture.
- Commercial style.
- Concept architectural design.
- Context.
- Contextualism.
- Design principles.
- Empirical design.
- Primary function.
- Function.
- Genius loci.
- International Style.
- Minimalist architecture.
- Modernist architecture.
- Monument and context.
- Open plan and cellular.
- Perspective.
- Postmodern architecture.
- Psychogeography.
- The history of fabric structures.
- Truth to materials.
- Zeitgeist.
Featured articles and news
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.
Futurebuild and UK Construction Week London Unite
Creating the UK’s Built Environment Super Event and over 25 other key partnerships.
Welsh and Scottish 2026 elections
Manifestos for the built environment for upcoming same May day elections.
Advancing BIM education with a competency framework
“We don’t need people who can just draw in 3D. We need people who can think in data.”