Post Modern Architecture

I was highly excited to learn that we would be reading a piece on postmodern architecture, but contrary to most of my classmates opinions, the reading intimidated me a bit.  It was easy to read, but the concepts seemed to blend into one another all too easily.  Thankfully, Dr. Casey cleared the air organizing the information and terms discussed by Jencks in an exciting manner.

I loved how Dr. Casey went through the time periods, clearing up different styles that were prevalent in architecture for the time, so we could more easily see when different styles were being blended together to create postmodern works.

Concepts such as urbane urbanism are so prevalent today as new suburban communities like Baldwin Park have been popping up in every direction.  I feel that while creating a cookie cutter image, this trend is positive in reviving the past and recognizing the beauty, as opposed to creating something entirely different and forward thinking that might not make so much sense in a few decades.  Reviving the classics.

Further, although Dr. Casey did not favor this example, I think the the Louvre in Paris is a stunning work of postmodern architecture exemplifying radical eclecticism.  The tradition structure as well as the modern edition are both beautiful structures that seem to have nothing in common.  However, when viewed during the night time, the magnificent lighting that illuminate both of the structures highlighting their ornate detail connects these two polar opposite structures in a beautiful way.  I think that these radically different structures work well together because of the lighting.

Lastly, I was elated that Dr. Casey spoke a bit about Frank Lloyd Wright.  His work well exceeded his time and he has more than earned a staple recognition as one of the greatest postmodern architects or his time.  Many of his structures utilize multivalence properties such as "Falling Water" that we viewed in class.  He also had a way with connecting his modern multivalence structures with nature in a comfortable and surprisingly serene way.  An issue that a lot of individuals have with postmodern architecture is that they feel it is above and beyond what naturally fits in the environment.  For example, the doughnut building (while adorable), does not blend into nature or its surroundings.  Frank Lloyd Wright often found that balance to make his structures feel comfortable yet eye-catching.

Dr. Casey truly provided us with an exciting lecture.