Minimalist architecture
Minimalist architecture, sometimes referred to as 'minimalism', involves the use of simple design elements, without ornamentation or decoration. Proponents of minimalism believe that condensing the content and form of a design to its bare essentials, reveals the true 'essence of architecture'.
Minimalist architecture emerged from the Cubist-inspired movements of De Stijl and Bauhaus in the 1920s. Architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, theorised that minimalism gave maximum power to architectural space.
|
| Barcelona Pavilion, Mies van der Rohe. Image source: Marc Teer. |
Common characteristics of minimalist architecture include:
- Pure geometric forms.
- Simple, limited and plain materials.
- Neat and straight components.
- Repetition to give a sense of order and unification.
- Simple, open spaces.
- 'Clean' lines.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The built environment can unlock opportunities for skills.
Additionality is a concept applied to activities and projects.
Some HPL cladding is very unlikely to adequately resist the spread of fire.
What a chartered architectural technologist does.
Building design and construction fees.
The world heritage list has evolved to embrace built, cultural and natural heritage.
The Ocean Cleanup project
The various types of bond and when they are used.
It's vital the industry responds to proposals for reform of the safety regulatory system.
RSHP's Merano wins RIBA accolade.
How to differentiate between partial possession and early use.
Ofwat proposes £12 billion additional investment and £50 bill reductions.