Le Corbusier

Definition

Le Corbusier was a Swiss-French architect, designer, and urban planner who became one of the most influential figures in modern architecture and design. His innovative ideas about functionalism, open floor plans, and the use of modern materials shaped the principles of Modernist art, influenced the development of Cubism in architecture and sculpture, and played a significant role in defining the International Style that spread globally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Le Corbusier is known for coining the phrase 'A house is a machine for living in,' emphasizing functional design in architecture.
2. His architectural style promoted the use of concrete and steel, often featuring pilotis (columns) that elevated buildings above ground level.
3. Le Corbusier's work was instrumental in popularizing the International Style, which embraced minimalism and rejected ornamentation.
4. He designed several major urban planning projects including Chandigarh in India, reflecting his vision for modernist city design.
5. Le Corbusier's influence extended beyond architecture to furniture design, where he emphasized functionality and clean lines with pieces like the LC4 chaise longue.

Review Questions

• How did Le Corbusier's ideas contribute to the key characteristics of Modernist art?
  • Le Corbusier's contributions to Modernist art lie primarily in his embrace of functionalism and abstraction. His architectural designs prioritized form following function, leading to structures that were both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical. By using modern materials like concrete and glass, he helped to create open spaces that reflected the ideals of clarity and simplicity inherent in Modernist art. His work encouraged other artists and architects to think about how space and function could redefine artistic expression.
• In what ways did Cubism influence Le Corbusier's architectural designs?
  • Cubism played a significant role in shaping Le Corbusier's architectural approach by encouraging the breakdown of forms into geometric shapes and abstract structures. This influence is evident in his use of angular forms and fragmented planes within his buildings. Like Cubist painters who depicted multiple perspectives within a single frame, Le Corbusier sought to create spaces that could be experienced from various angles, promoting a dynamic interaction between the viewer and the structure.
• Evaluate the global impact of Le Corbusier’s work on architecture during the 20th century and beyond.
  • Le Corbusier’s work had a profound global impact on architecture by introducing principles that reshaped urban planning and building design worldwide. His advocacy for the International Style inspired architects across continents to adopt functional designs characterized by simplicity, open spaces, and integration with nature. Projects like Chandigarh not only demonstrated his visionary concepts but also influenced post-war urban development in many cities around the globe. As a result, his legacy continues to resonate today through contemporary architectural practices that prioritize sustainability and human-centered design.

Related terms

Modulor: A system of proportions developed by Le Corbusier, based on human measurements, which aimed to create harmonious spaces and promote functionality in architecture.

Villa Savoye:

A seminal work by Le Corbusier located in Poissy, France, illustrating his architectural principles like pilotis (supports), flat roofs, open floor plans, and ribbon windows.

Radiant City: An urban planning concept proposed by Le Corbusier that envisioned a modern city with green spaces, high-rise residential towers, and efficient transportation systems.