Rococo
Rococo, also known as ‘late Baroque’, was an extreme, decorative development of Baroque architecture that emerged in the 18th century as a reaction against grandeur and symmetry. It was a more fluid and florid elaborate style, comprising ornate, asymmetric designs and pastel shades.
It originated in Paris, in response to the ponderous, strict Baroque architecture that had risen to prominence with buildings such as the Palace of Versailles and the official art of Louis XIV’s reign. It was soon adopted as a style across France and other countries such as Germany and Austria. However, by the end of the 18th century, Rococo had largely been replaced by the Neoclassical style.
Although there are many similarities between Rococo and Baroque architecture, the design approach tends to be more playful, light and with an exuberant use of curves. One of the principal differences between the styles is with regard to symmetry; Rococo emphasising the asymmetry of forms.
Rococo is also a more secular adaptation of Baroque, which is often more serious, with the intention of instilling awe in the faithful. Walls, ceilings and mouldings are decorated with numerous interlacings of curves and counter-curves based on the shapes of ‘C’ and ‘S’, along with shell forms and other naturalistic shapes.
The colours of Rococo are predominantly pale, such as light pastel, ivory white and gold, with frequent use of mirrors to enhance the sense of open space. French furniture from the period often displays curving forms, naturalistic shell and floral ornament, and playful use of gilt-bronze and porcelain decoration.
Some of the most notable buildings of the Rococo style are:
- Salon de Monsieur le Prince, Chantilly.
- Salons of the Hotel de Soubise, Paris.
- Amalienburg, Munich.
- Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin.
- Czapski Palace, Warsaw.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.