You could say March is a big month for modern design. Last week it was modern art, this week it’s modern architecture. Today is German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe‘s birthday. Aside from appearing sophisticated and handsome in that dignified way, Mies was a brilliant modern architect. You may think to yourself, I have no idea who he is or what he built. Have you ever heard the phrase, “less is more”?
Architecture
Have you seen the Seagram Building in New York, 860-880 Lake Shore Drive in Chicago or S.R. Crown Hall at the Illinois Institute of Technology? No? Well then, perhaps one of my favorite buildings the Barcelon Pavillion was the German Pavilion for the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, Spain. This building was used for the official opening of the German section of the exhibition. It is an important building in the history of modern architecture, known for its simple form and its spectacular use of extravagant materials, such as marble, red onyx and travertine.
Design
This exhibit also introduced and important piece of furniture known as the Barcelona chair. Which of course I had to have and do.
The homage
Being a lover of all things modern I feel it is important to pay homage to the founding fathers (and mothers) who make it possible for me to make a living through my chosen passion. I can’t think of a better time than on their birthdays; I imagine Ludwig would have thrown a stellar party.
Have an infinitely modern day!
