International style

This period of design lasted from the 1930s to 1950. Its origins began in Western Europe. Three architects namely Le Corbusier (France), Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (both German) wished to create a new modern style of architecture, They emphasised on geometric shapes and toned down anything traditional and over elaborate.

F51 chair by Walter Gropius for Tecta 1

Evans, M. (no date). F51 chair by Walter Gropius for Tecta 1.Available: http://originuk.com/uncategorized/tecta-hidden-classics-at-aram-store/attachment/f51_walter-gropius_tecta-1/. Last accessed 20th January 2014.

Chaise Lounge by Le Corbusier

Meadmore, C. (2012). ''The Modern Chair''. Available: http://chairpedia.com/intro/the-modern-chair.aspx. Last accessed 20th January 2014.

Cantilever chair MR10, 1927 by Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe

design. (2010). Design: Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe. Available: http://flairset.blogspot.com/2010/12/design-ludwig-mies-van-der-rohe.html. Last accessed 20th January 2014.

The new buildings being designed were very stark , with flat roofs and rectangular windows. In the 1930s, before World War II, European architects had taken their ideas over to America and influenced American architects into designing bungalow type residences and developing skyscrapers. In fact the first International style skyscraper appeared in Philadelphia in 1932 (Philadelphia Saving Fund Society Building). It was considered as an 'ultra modern' design; this opened the gateway to many more skyscrapers and had a lasting impact on modern design.

There may not be pure examples of International style buildings, but there are many buildings showing its influence. In Europe, this style was popular for residential and school buildings, but not too common in America.

International style has remained a typical example of designs having; a simplified form, a non-use of anything ornamental and a use of glass, steel and concrete.

As Le Corbusier described these houses being ''machines for living''.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. (no date). International style 1930-1950. Available: http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/modern_movements/2391/international_style/408691. Last accessed 20th January 2014.