Mechanization Architecture Is an Art

Mechanization

Architecture is an art form that, perhaps more like any other, affects the daily lives of people as a result of its necessity; human beings need shelter. The way in which architecture evolves, then, is closely concerned with the developments in society and industry. According to Kahn (p. 578), for example, architecture adheres to the spirit of its time and cannot recreate the spirit of any other time. The author here implies that, although the tools and means necessary for recreating a cathedral from another epoch are available, the spirit behind the drive to build it is no longer inherent in the collective social consciousness and is therefore discarded from the architectural consciousness.

The mechanization and scientific discovery that have escalated since the beginning of the 20th century have also created an influence on architecture, where functionality takes precedence. Similarly, Rowe (p. 80) argues that architecture's main functionality lies in its connection with the mind and requirements of those it serves. With the introduction of mass production, architecture was then influenced to produce more space at a lower cost and with greater efficiency.

This is evident in both the work of both Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van de Rohe. These two architects embody Le Courbusier's assertion that "architecture finds itself confronted with new laws (Le Courbusier, p. 283). Both architects take elements from the time in which they operate and the environment within which they construct their homes to create a sense of space that is appropriate in terms of mechanization and the concomitant simplicity required by the new order of the world and work.

Specifically, this is accomplished by Frank Lloyd Wright in his prairie house style. Intrinsically american, Wright worked with the observed environment to create an extension of this environment, which would not only be functional in terms of living space, but also aesthetically in accordance with the environment from which it emerges. Wright's idea for the prairie house was a long, low building with hovering planes and a horizontal emphasis (Matthews, 2011). In keeping with the functionality and mechanization of the time, Wright used simple materials such as brick, wood and plaster to create a sense of the natural in his work. M

This form is exemplified in the architect's Zimmerman house, which is a long, low house, with an interior space that is not immediately apparent from the outside. While performing the functional purpose of shelter and protection, the interior of the house also focuses on open, shared space; an idea inspired by the prairie fields of the United States. Hence, mechanization and functionality are integrated into the architect's design.

Like Wright, Mies van de Rohe is also concerned with maintaining simplicity in the interest of material honesty and structural integrity (Matthews, 2011). The drive towards this simplicity is also inspired by mechanization, where industrialization has created a faster pace in life, work and art. Using simple materials provides for the drive to enjoy and experience beauty and art in a much shorter time than was previously the case. Furthermore, industrialization means that function and form work together, each with its specific integrated purpose in the work of art.