Farnsworth House

Definition

The Farnsworth House is a minimalist glass house designed by architect Mies van der Rohe, completed in 1951 in Plano, Illinois. It exemplifies the International Style through its clean lines, open space, and integration with nature, showcasing the principles of simplicity and functionality that are characteristic of this architectural movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Farnsworth House is raised off the ground to minimize flooding risks and create an unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape.
2. Constructed using steel and glass, the house features a minimalist design that emphasizes transparency and the relationship between the interior and exterior.
3. The house's open floor plan allows for flexible use of space, demonstrating the International Style's commitment to functional living environments.
4. The Farnsworth House has been recognized as a significant work of modern architecture and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006.
5. The site of the Farnsworth House is notable for its natural beauty, integrating the structure into the wooded surroundings and enhancing the experience of nature from within.

Review Questions

• How does the design of the Farnsworth House embody the principles of the International Style?
  • The Farnsworth House embodies the principles of the International Style through its use of minimal ornamentation, emphasis on volume and open space, and incorporation of industrial materials like glass and steel. Its transparent walls blur boundaries between inside and outside, creating a seamless connection with nature. The house’s overall simplicity reflects the movement’s focus on functionalism and rational design.
• Evaluate Mies van der Rohe's contributions to modern architecture through his work on the Farnsworth House.
  • Mies van der Rohe's contributions to modern architecture are exemplified in the Farnsworth House through his innovative use of materials and emphasis on clean lines. By employing glass as a primary material, he created a structure that not only serves as a living space but also harmonizes with its natural surroundings. His philosophy of 'less is more' is clearly evident in this design, influencing future generations of architects seeking to merge function with aesthetic appeal.
• Analyze how the Farnsworth House's relationship with its environment contributes to our understanding of architectural integration in the International Style.
  • The relationship between the Farnsworth House and its environment highlights architectural integration by showcasing how modern structures can coexist with nature. The raised design minimizes environmental impact while offering panoramic views of the landscape. This approach demonstrates a key tenet of the International Style: architecture should respond to its surroundings. By emphasizing transparency and openness, Mies van der Rohe created a dialogue between the built environment and natural elements, reinforcing that effective design should enhance rather than dominate its setting.

Related terms

International Style:

An architectural style that emerged in the 1920s characterized by an emphasis on volume over mass, the use of industrial materials, and the rejection of ornamentation.

Mies van der Rohe: A German-American architect known for his role in the development of modern architecture, particularly for his work in the International Style and for popularizing the phrase 'less is more.'

Glass House: A structure primarily made of glass that blurs the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces, often associated with modernist architecture.