Reading the first few chapters of From Bauhaus to Our House blew my mind. I had no idea that such an elite few had influenced the course of modern architecture for the world. It is truly a shame that things turned out the way they have, and that we really don’t see daring or different architecture anymore. I have noticed this before when I saw that my entire neighborhood was comprised of houses from only three different models and two colors. It is pretty boring. There are no risks, and no houses that stand out.
Also of interest to me was the extent which Socialist governments played in the new world of architecture. They funded many of the buildings which came out of the guilds like Bauhaus, as they liked the simplicity and functionality of them. Because of this support from the Socialists, I was surprised that Americans embraced the same architectural ideals, as they were terrified of anything even remotely Communist or Socialist. Americans of the time went as far as to oppose the addition of Fluoride (an element that strengthens teeth, and is present in most toothpaste) to community water supplies because they were convinced it was a Commie plan to poison them, so it seems odd they would embrace Socialist architecture.
Pictured above: The Soviet Takeover
The ideal of constructing buildings that are identical in purpose and appearance seems quite Socialist, and it is too bad it has become so prominent here. I wonder what would happen if several rogue architects began designing buildings that go against the norm, and take risks, shooting for a great appearance and ascetic rather than mere monotonous functionality? This problem reminds me of Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead. Howard Roark, the protagonist, designs buildings that go against what society and architectural boards expect. His buildings are ugly to the masses, but beautiful to the enlightened and free minded. Ironically, the book warns of the dangers of a loss of individuality that guilds create; guilds like Bauhaus. Would a rogue architect be able to find work without the blessing of those in control of the profession? Do such rebels exist today? Building beautiful homes that will be seen by almost no one? I sure hope so.
My mom and I enjoy driving around and looking at houses and she is always pointing out neighborhoods where every house is basically the same design and color. She isn't a big fan of that kind of planning and so, neither am I. I really like older neighborhoods where most of the houses are unique. Sometime I want to just walk around Salt Lake and look at all of the fantastic old houses there.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really interesting discussion of the reading. Thanks for your thoughts :)
ReplyDeleteI like your insites about the reading. I also do find it interesting that even capitalist America also started building structures like the ones socialist goverments built because of there simplicity and functionality. This just shows that two contrasting ideologies can never stop people from sharing techniques.
ReplyDeleteLet me guess, pre-dental! ha. Maybe I am just not insightful, but I had a difficult time digesting that book. Not that it was hard reading or anything but just complete boring. I will admit, it had some good stuff in it about the development architecture in the Americas but I guess I am not into that kinda of stuff. But great insights though!
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