Intro to Architecture Module 10c- Other Modernisms: Louis Kahn
Phillips Exeter Academy Library
Andover, NH 1967-72 identical facade on four sides based on tartan grid load bearing masonry exterior w dom-ino system interior use of flat brick arches on exterior, appearing as beams but functioning as arches little ornamentation outside of the appearance of the materials themselves--> diff colored bricks, imprints of structural elements, and texture of wood and concrete provide ornamentation tall atrium in the middle of structure lit by skylight wood cladding designates location of floors warmness of wood contrasts coolness of concrete stripes of concrete indicate directionality of motion woodwork w/in building related to modules of brick, creating a cohesive relationship throughout the building
Kimbell Art Museum
Fortworth, TX 1968-74 systematic repetition of barrel vaults as building's expression based on tartan grid--> served spaces of galleries under the vaults, service space such as stairs, rooms, etc in thin spaces btwn vaults small variations in structure create diff functions--> wall-less vault serves as entrance not actual vaults, made of reinforced concrete not stone in compression--> serve more as light fixtures system varied and excused in some spaces to create courtyards and special moments of natural light "vaults" are not half-round--> are cycloid shape and have to do w distribution of natural light that enters through skylight at top and bounces off aluminum sheets under skylight to diffuse the light to not harm the art tartan grid extends beyond building w location of sidewalks and waterfalls Kahn had direct interaction w construction workers and engaged in dialogue ab the design ornamentation emerges from construction and material itself
"nature of materials"
Kahn believed architects should respect and pay attention to the fundamental properties of materials to determine their use
Tartan Grid
a design of straight lines of varying widths and distances, crossing at right angles to create a hierarchy of spaces determined by size that indicate their function as served and service spaces
