Artchitecture

Architecture is such an interesting field to me. I definitely consider it an art form – albeit an extremely mathematical one – but it’s the practicality aspect that really intrigues me. It’s the art form that can’t be opted out of; we’re constantly and unavoidably bombarded by architecture, so I really admire people who take advantage of that to communicate some sort of aesthetic message.

One architect I really resonate with aesthetically is Luis Barragan. His use of completely reduced form and saturated colour have such a uniquely ethereal effect, like an grown-up playhouse of sorts. I tend to find super-minimal architecture very cold and uninviting, but the subtle Mexican influence maintains such a warmth that really differentiates Barragan’s style.

It’s hard not to respect the immensity that is Ricardo Bofill‘s work, but I definitely think that his best work was his own house and studio space. The converted cement factory is unique not only in its immaculate interior design and dystopian-brutalist leanings, but in it’s redefinition of the home. Bofill defies the traditional ‘rules’ of residential architecture by incorporating numerous independent spaces in a very disjointed way – a labyrinth, as he calls it. He also doesn’t shy away from grandiosity, but embraces it in the most understated way, with the incredibly high ceilings, abundance of landscaping, and high contrast between natural light and darkness.

Lastly – just wanted to give a quick shoutout to James Turell, who definitely leans more artist than architect, but is also using space in such a cool way. I’ve yet to catch any of his installations first hand, so I can only imagine the intensity associated with such an immersive, anti-naturalistic, highly abstract and aestheticized experience.

Enjoy

x Syd