READING #1 SUMMARY

Modern Architecture was proposed as a new equitable architecture for a rapidly changing and connected world. With technology and science at the forefront it was intended to be honest, transparent, and moral. For the people of means or the lay person. It was to be inherently anthropologic; focused on function and abstraction, stripping away unnecessary elements. It was intended to be uniform and ubiquitous – fitting in anywhere. It was to be universal and non-political. Mute in its stylistic voice. However, as is true in many things, Intent and Application don’t always align. While modern new buildings with cultural ornamentation or fast-deployed prefab metal housing in the developing world might look like universal style and progress to their makers, The indigenous population might have a hard time distinguishing it from the imperial and colonial architecture of the past.  While Modern Architecture wanted to be an exemplar of a brave new world, it hasn’t necessarily able to escape the same dogma or political, social, and economical agendas of its forebearers. Regardless, Modern Architecture has always had its eye on the future, pushing and pressing for progress, and that might be its best definition and quality.

READING #1 CRITIQUE

Rather than a traditional definition of “What is Modern Architecture” Mark Crinson weaves a narrative, albeit a little drawn out, of modern architecture.  Originating with sentiments of Le Corbusier and the formation of the CIAM, moving through case studies of modern architecture and their failings, and lastly we are given some words from Walter Gropius to reflect on and asked a question. “What is Modern Architecture?” “Does it Even Matter” While the author described the origins of the modernist movement, and how flat those ideals can fall in certain contexts, I would have liked to see some examples of a successful modernist piece for contrast to enhance my understanding of modern architecture.  But to the authors point – does it matter?

READING #2 SUMMARY

The prevalent architectural canon taught in many places around the world today is guilty of historicism.  In recent years scholars have taken to interrogating Eurocentric themes and creating discourse and working towards a canon that supports a Polycentric architectural canon.  The west is seen as the center for innovation and progress and the rest of the world as willing recieptants. Architecture is inherently contextual, and even the fabled modern architecture by high profile architects touting its universalist style and equality could not be completely divorced from carrying western ideals and agendas into many parts of the world.

READING #3 SUMMARY

Architectural criticism is a craft to be honed and a boon for all.  It is essential to furthering the progress of architecture as a whole and the development new practitioners.

BUILDING APPLICATION

The Kagawa Prefecture Office by Kenzo Tage is an example of embracing and employing values of the modern architecture movement while understanding the context of its location and the cultural importance of symbolizing traditional Japanese wood construction.

Kagawa Prefecture Office

TAKEAWAYS

• Every designed thing has an inherit agenda
• Understanding the context of where you are building is important
• We all have biases
• Discourse and Criticism are paramount to becoming an effective practicioner of architecture.