4) Bauhaus, by Siebenbrodt, Michael & Schöbe, Lutz (2012) [electronic resource] (pp 188-204 and 238-240).

I can see close links between the reading from week 2 on Adolf Loos, whose work must have heavily influenced that of Gropius, particularly his idea of “form follows function” and that a building should primarily be based upon its function or purpose, with an absence of ornamental features.

I appreciate the teaching and principles at Bauhaus, however I personally do not like the plain white façade, flat roof and characteristics of modern architecture and industrial design. I feel the exterior façade, executed in primary colours and black and white scale, looks quite dull and gives the appearance of a factory building, that does not stand out from its surroundings. However I do like the use of new industrial materials such as reinforced concrete, rolled steel and plate glass in large sizes.

I agree with the ideologies of Bauhaus, that there should be unity of form, function and structure with the material world reflecting the unity of all the arts (architecture, sculpture and painting).

With respect to the interior, being a place of education, the light and airy design serves this purpose. With the building divided into three main wings and connected by a bridge, this breaks the concept of symmetry and targets functional efficiency, again lacking unnecessary decoration.

In my opinion, although the emigration of the key figures of the Bauhaus to the United States and other areas was unfortunate, in some respects this could be seen as a blessing, as their teachings philosophies went on to influence generations of young architects and designers. With respect to my work, I think it is important to think primarily about the function of my designs and how the space with be used, before getting carried away with the form and straying away from the purpose of design.

The Bauhaus School (Gropius,1919)

Image reference: Gropius, (1919), The Bauhaus School [ONLINE]. Available at:https://archhistdaily.wordpress.com/tag/bauhaus/ [Accessed 27 November 14].