The Philosophy of Organic Architecture
Philosophy of Organic Architecture
Organic architecture, also known as naturalistic architecture, is an architectural movement that is rooted in three fundamental aspects: site, form, and materials. These factors allow the structure to adapt to the surrounding environment. It is designed to meet the needs of the people that live in it, without dominating or overpowering the environment. While preserving nature is a goal of many organic architects, it is not an essential aspect of the style.
Organic architecture is a style that was originated by the late American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Although he had a large portfolio of buildings, many of which were designed in the traditional style, Wright eventually developed his own philosophy of organic architecture. In his writings and lectures, Wright emphasized the importance of integrating buildings into the natural world. He also believed that design was an inherent relationship between the building and the environment.
A contemporary of Wright, John Lautner, also embraced the principles of organic architecture. Though he was influenced by the ideas of Wright, he did not follow his path as a practicing architect. The Guggenheim Museum in New York, for example, is an excellent example of the philosophy of organic architecture.
The Philosophy of Organic Architecture
Another great example of organic architecture is the Casa Mila, built by Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona. This home was modeled after the natural forms found in the environment.
Another architect who advocated organic architecture is Arthur Dyson. He drew inspiration from the style when he constructed the Creek House in Sanger, California. His designs use the same philosophy of organic architecture, but with a more sophisticated level of detail. As a result, the structure has a minimal ecological footprint.
While these two prominent figures in the organic architecture movement were influential, other creative architects and artists also contributed to the movement. One such artist was Louis Sullivan, who used ornamental cast iron and geometric shapes to create buildings that reflected the spirit of the times. Among Sullivan’s most notable works are the Sullivan Center in New Orleans and the Unbroken Cellular Wall Facade at the Whitney Museum of Art in New York.
Similarly, Eric Corey Freed, a designer from New York City, views each part of a structure as an interrelated extension of an organism. To this end, he uses a variety of methods to find the best solution for his clients. For example, he interviews his clients to determine what they want from their buildings and how they will use the space. Afterward, he sketches the various components of his project and plans for its construction.
Architect David Pearson took Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision of organic architecture and distilled it into the “Gaia Charter,” which outlines a philosophy for designing to promote harmony between human beings and the earth. The charter aims to promote health for the body and peace for the mind and spirit.
Today, many architects and artists are applying the philosophy of organic architecture to their work. Currently, there are hundreds of students pursuing the principles of organic architecture.
