5.2 Expressionism in architecture: concepts and notable examples
5 min read•august 5, 2024
in architecture was a bold movement that emerged in early 20th century Germany. It rejected traditional styles, embracing emotional and dynamic forms to evoke powerful responses. Architects like Mendelsohn and Taut pushed boundaries with organic shapes and innovative materials.
Notable examples like the and showcased Expressionism's key features. These buildings used curved forms, crystalline structures, and unconventional materials to create immersive spaces that blurred the line between art and architecture.
Pioneers of Expressionist Architecture
Key Figures in Early Expressionism
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Hans Poelzig’s Sulphuric Acid Factory in Luboń, Poland (1911-1912) – SOCKS View original
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The Light in Architecture: Eric Mendelsohn’s Photographic Expressionism | nonsite.org View original
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“Alpine Architecture”: an Utopian City by Bruno Taut (1917) – SOCKS View original
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Hans Poelzig’s Sulphuric Acid Factory in Luboń, Poland (1911-1912) – SOCKS View original
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Top images from around the web for Key Figures in Early Expressionism
Hans Poelzig’s Sulphuric Acid Factory in Luboń, Poland (1911-1912) – SOCKS View original
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The Light in Architecture: Eric Mendelsohn’s Photographic Expressionism | nonsite.org View original
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“Alpine Architecture”: an Utopian City by Bruno Taut (1917) – SOCKS View original
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Hans Poelzig’s Sulphuric Acid Factory in Luboń, Poland (1911-1912) – SOCKS View original
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The Light in Architecture: Eric Mendelsohn’s Photographic Expressionism | nonsite.org View original
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- designed the Einstein Tower, an astronomical observatory that exemplified Expressionist principles with its curved, and use of reinforced concrete
- , known for his utopian visions and use of glass, designed the Glass Pavilion for the Cologne Werkbund Exhibition in 1914, which featured a prismatic dome made entirely of glass
- , an influential architect and set designer, designed the theater in Berlin, which featured a cavernous, stalactite-like interior that evoked emotional responses
- , a philosopher and esotericist, designed the , a cultural center for the anthroposophical movement that showcased organic, sculptural forms and the use of unconventional materials like concrete and wood
Contributions to Expressionist Theory and Practice
- Erich Mendelsohn's sketches and drawings, particularly his "Dynamism Series," influenced the development of Expressionist architecture by emphasizing fluid, dynamic forms and the concept of "frozen music"
- Bruno Taut's theoretical writings, such as "Alpine Architecture" and "The City Crown," advocated for utopian, glass-based architecture that would inspire spiritual uplift and social reform
- Hans Poelzig's set designs for films like "The Golem" and "Metropolis" brought Expressionist aesthetics to a wider audience and influenced the visual language of German Expressionist cinema
- Rudolf Steiner's anthroposophical teachings, which emphasized the spiritual dimension of art and architecture, inspired a unique branch of Expressionist architecture that sought to embody esoteric principles
Iconic Expressionist Buildings
Einstein Tower (1919-1924)
- Designed by Erich Mendelsohn in Potsdam, Germany as an astronomical observatory
- Features a curved, organic form that resembles a sculptural abstraction, reflecting the Expressionist interest in emotional and dynamic architecture
- Constructed using reinforced concrete, a modern material that allowed for greater formal experimentation and plasticity
- Represents a synthesis of scientific function and artistic expression, with its form derived from the study of light and the universe
Glass Pavilion (1914)
- Designed by Bruno Taut for the Cologne Werkbund Exhibition as a showcase for the German glass industry
- Features a prismatic glass dome composed of rhomboid panes, creating a crystalline, faceted structure that reflects and refracts light
- Embodies Taut's vision of a utopian, transparent architecture that would dissolve boundaries between interior and exterior space
- Represents the Expressionist fascination with the spiritual and transformative potential of glass as a building material
Großes Schauspielhaus (1919)
- Designed by Hans Poelzig as a theater in Berlin, Germany
- Features a cavernous, grotto-like interior with stalactite-like forms hanging from the ceiling, creating an immersive and emotionally charged space
- Exemplifies the Expressionist interest in organic, biomorphic forms and the creation of atmospheric, experiential spaces
- Represents Poelzig's innovative approach to theater design, which sought to break from traditional proscenium staging and engage the audience more directly
Goetheanum (1924-1928)
- Designed by Rudolf Steiner as a cultural center for the anthroposophical movement in Dornach, Switzerland
- Features a sculptural, organic form constructed from reinforced concrete, with a double-shell dome and curving, asymmetrical volumes
- Embodies Steiner's anthroposophical principles, which sought to create a spiritually infused architecture that reflected the human body and soul
- Represents a unique synthesis of Expressionist aesthetics and esoteric philosophy, with its form and details derived from Steiner's spiritual teachings
Expressionist Art Movements
Die Brücke (The Bridge)
- Founded in Dresden, Germany in 1905 by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Erich Heckel, Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, and Fritz Bleyl
- Emphasized raw, emotive expression through bold colors, distorted forms, and rough brushwork
- Drew inspiration from primitive art, medieval woodcuts, and the urban experience of modern life
- Influenced the development of Expressionist architecture through its emphasis on emotional intensity and breaking from traditional artistic conventions
Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider)
- Founded in Munich, Germany in 1911 by Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, and others
- Explored the spiritual dimensions of art through abstraction, color symbolism, and the integration of music and painting
- Drew inspiration from folk art, children's art, and the natural world
- Influenced the development of Expressionist architecture through its emphasis on the expressive potential of color, form, and the synthesis of the arts
Characteristics of Expressionist Architecture
Emotional Architecture
- Expressionist architects sought to create buildings that evoked strong emotional responses and communicated inner feelings and experiences
- Emphasized the psychological and spiritual dimensions of architecture, rather than purely functional or aesthetic concerns
- Used dynamic, expressive forms, colors, and materials to create immersive, atmospheric spaces that engaged the senses and emotions
- Examples include the cavernous interior of Poelzig's Großes Schauspielhaus and the sculptural, organic forms of Mendelsohn's Einstein Tower
Organic Forms
- Expressionist architecture often featured curving, organic forms that resembled natural shapes and structures
- Rejected the straight lines and geometric forms of traditional architecture in favor of more fluid, dynamic, and asymmetrical compositions
- Reflected the influence of Art Nouveau, Jugendstil, and the biomorphic forms of Expressionist painting and sculpture
- Examples include the undulating facade of Mendelsohn's Einsteinturm and the anthropomorphic volumes of Steiner's Goetheanum
Crystalline Structures
- Expressionist architects also explored the use of angular, faceted forms that resembled crystals or geological formations
- Reflected the influence of Cubist and Futurist art, as well as the Expressionist fascination with the spiritual and transformative properties of glass
- Used modern materials like glass and concrete to create prismatic, light-filled structures that dissolved boundaries between interior and exterior space
- Examples include Taut's Glass Pavilion and the angular, faceted forms of Hans Scharoun's Schminke House (1933) in Löbau, Germany
Key Terms to Review (23)
Asymmetry: Asymmetry refers to the lack of equality or equivalence between parts of a composition, leading to visual imbalance that can create tension and interest. In architecture, this can manifest in various ways, such as through the arrangement of forms, materials, and spaces, challenging traditional notions of symmetry and order.
Bruno Taut: Bruno Taut was a prominent German architect and theorist known for his contributions to Expressionism in architecture during the early 20th century. His work emphasized emotional expression, organic forms, and the use of color, aiming to create spaces that resonate with human feelings and experiences. Taut's designs often sought to break away from traditional architectural styles, embracing innovative materials and structures that reflected the ideals of the time.
Brutalism: Brutalism is an architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by its bold, rugged forms and the use of raw concrete as a primary material. This style reflects a cultural shift towards honesty in materials and functionality, responding to the post-war context and the need for affordable housing and civic buildings.
Color theory: Color theory is a framework that explains how colors interact with one another and how they can be combined to create visual harmony or emotional responses. It involves the study of color relationships, color wheels, and the impact of color on design, making it essential in fields like art and architecture, especially when aiming to convey specific feelings or concepts.
Deconstructivism: Deconstructivism is an architectural movement characterized by a departure from traditional design principles, focusing on fragmentation, non-linear forms, and the manipulation of surface textures and materials. This style often challenges the conventional aesthetics of harmony and unity, reflecting the complexities of modern life through its chaotic and disjointed forms.
Dynamic shapes: Dynamic shapes in architecture refer to forms and structures that convey a sense of movement, fluidity, and change. These shapes often break traditional geometric norms and are designed to evoke emotion or represent ideas of transformation, making them a key element of Expressionist architecture.
Einstein Tower: The Einstein Tower is an astrophysical observatory located in Potsdam, Germany, designed by the architect Erich Mendelsohn. Completed in 1924, this iconic structure is a prime example of Expressionism in architecture, showcasing dynamic forms and an organic design that reflects both the natural world and the scientific principles of Einstein's theories. Its sculptural quality and innovative use of materials exemplify the fusion of art and science, which is a hallmark of Expressionist architecture.
Emotional expression: Emotional expression in architecture refers to the way buildings convey feelings, moods, or ideas through their design and form. This concept emphasizes that architecture can evoke emotions in observers, creating a connection between the structure and its audience, often leading to a deeper experience of space. Emotional expression allows architects to communicate themes such as freedom, tension, or serenity, impacting how people interact with their environment.
Erich Mendelsohn: Erich Mendelsohn was a prominent German architect known for his pioneering work in expressionist architecture during the early 20th century. His designs often featured dynamic forms and innovative structures that expressed movement and emotion, distinguishing him as a key figure in the development of modern architecture.
Expressionism: Expressionism is an artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing the expression of emotional experience over physical reality. This movement sought to convey the inner feelings of the artist, often through distortion, exaggeration, and bold colors, impacting various forms of art, including architecture. Expressionism arose from a historical context marked by rapid social change and cultural upheaval, connecting deeply with the ideas of Futurism and shaping future Modernist movements.
Glass pavilion: A glass pavilion is an architectural structure predominantly made of glass, which is often used to create a light-filled, transparent space that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This type of design emphasizes openness and connection to nature, reflecting the ideals of modern architecture. Glass pavilions often serve as exhibition spaces, recreational areas, or private retreats, embodying a sense of elegance and contemporary aesthetics.
Goetheanum: The Goetheanum is the spiritual and architectural center of the Anthroposophical Society, designed by the architect Rudolf Steiner. Located in Dornach, Switzerland, this building embodies the principles of expressionism through its organic forms, fluid spaces, and emphasis on light. The Goetheanum serves as a prime example of how architecture can be used to reflect spiritual concepts and foster a sense of community.
Großes schauspielhaus: The term 'großes schauspielhaus' refers to a type of large theater building that emerged in the early 20th century, particularly notable in the context of Expressionism in architecture. This architectural style is characterized by its emphasis on emotion and bold, dynamic forms, seeking to express deeper psychological and social themes through its structures. The großes schauspielhaus serves as an example of how architecture can embody artistic movements and reflect the cultural zeitgeist of its time.
Hans Poelzig: Hans Poelzig was a prominent German architect and expressionist designer known for his innovative approach to architecture that blended organic forms with new construction techniques. His work is characterized by a sense of movement and dramatic visual effects, aligning with the broader expressionist movement in architecture during the early 20th century. Poelzig's designs often reflected a deep engagement with materials and space, contributing significantly to the evolution of modern architectural aesthetics.
Identity: In architecture, identity refers to the distinct characteristics and features that define a particular building or structure, reflecting cultural, historical, and personal narratives. This concept plays a crucial role in how architecture communicates meaning and connects with its surroundings, influencing both aesthetic choices and functional design. A strong sense of identity in architecture can evoke emotions and foster a sense of belonging within a community.
Light manipulation: Light manipulation refers to the architectural practice of controlling and altering natural light within a space to enhance its aesthetic, functional, and emotional qualities. This technique plays a crucial role in creating dynamic environments that respond to changing conditions throughout the day, thereby influencing how spaces are experienced and utilized.
Modern Architecture: International Exhibition: The Modern Architecture: International Exhibition was a pivotal event held in 1932 at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, showcasing groundbreaking architectural designs and concepts from various countries. This exhibition marked a turning point in the recognition of modern architecture, presenting the work of influential architects and promoting new ideals about form, function, and social responsibility in architecture. It helped to establish modern architecture as a legitimate movement and influenced future architectural practices globally.
Modernist reaction: The modernist reaction refers to a movement within architecture that emerged in the early to mid-20th century, characterized by a departure from traditional forms and styles in favor of innovation, simplicity, and functionality. This reaction was largely driven by the social, political, and technological changes of the time, leading to an emphasis on new materials and construction techniques that reshaped architectural practices.
Organic forms: Organic forms refer to shapes and structures in architecture that are inspired by natural elements and free-flowing, curvilinear designs. This approach seeks to harmonize the built environment with its surroundings, reflecting the fluidity and dynamism found in nature. Organic forms emphasize asymmetry, fluid lines, and a sense of movement, which can be seen across various architectural movements, showcasing their connection to nature and the human experience.
Place-making: Place-making is the process of creating quality public spaces that foster people's health, happiness, and well-being. It emphasizes the importance of a space's physical and social characteristics, making it a vibrant and meaningful part of the community. In the context of architecture, place-making often involves design that encourages interaction, engagement, and a sense of belonging among users.
Post-World War I: Post-World War I refers to the period following the end of World War I in 1918, which had a profound impact on global politics, society, and culture. This era saw a shift towards modernism in various fields, including architecture, as designers began to express the emotional and psychological effects of war through innovative forms and structures that broke from traditional styles.
Rudolf Steiner: Rudolf Steiner was an Austrian philosopher, social reformer, and architect known for founding the Anthroposophy movement and influencing various fields, including education, agriculture, and architecture. In architecture, his work is particularly noted for its expressionist qualities, characterized by organic forms, vibrant colors, and a deep connection to the surrounding environment, which align with the broader principles of Expressionism in architecture.
The international style: The international style is an architectural movement that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by minimalism, functionalism, and the use of modern materials like steel and glass. This style emphasizes simplicity and the elimination of unnecessary ornamentation, reflecting broader cultural shifts towards modernism and rationalism in architecture. It represents a break from traditional forms and is linked to historical developments such as industrialization and urbanization.