Minimalism in architecture Automatic translate

Minimalism in architecture emerged as a distinct movement in the mid-20th century, based on the desire to reduce design to its essential elements. This architectural style was a reaction against the ornate and decorative styles that had dominated previous periods, such as Art Deco and Classical Revival. The movement sought simplicity, functionality, and clarity, eliminating unnecessary details and emphasizing clean lines, geometric shapes, and open spaces.

Influence of previous movements

Minimalism was heavily influenced by earlier artistic and architectural movements such as the Bauhaus, De Stijl, and Japanese Zen philosophy. The Bauhaus school (founded in 1919) emphasized the integration of form and function, advocating simplicity and practicality in design. De Stijl artists such as Piet Mondrian introduced geometric abstraction and primary colors, which inspired minimalist architects to focus on pure forms. Japanese Zen principles brought ideas of harmony with nature, negative space, and restraint, which became central to minimalist architecture.

Post-war context

After World War II, the world faced economic challenges that required affordable yet functional housing. Minimalist architecture responded to this need by prioritizing efficiency over excess. Urbanization also played a role: a growing population demanded space-saving, practical, and aesthetically pleasing designs.

Key figures

Architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (known for his "less is more" philosophy), Le Corbusier, Philip Johnson, Tadao Ando, ​​John Pawson, and Peter Zumthor played an important role in shaping minimalist architecture.

Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House (1951) is an example of minimalism with its use of glass walls and steel frames to create openness and transparency.

Philip Johnson’s Glass House (1949) further explores the relationship between interior space and the natural environment through minimalist principles.

Characteristics of Minimalist Architecture

Minimalist architecture is defined by several key characteristics that emphasize simplicity while maintaining functionality.

Clean lines and simple shapes

The designs are reduced to the simplest geometric shapes without unnecessary decoration. The repetition of clean lines creates order in the design.

Open Spaces and Flexibility: Open floor plans are often found in minimalist buildings to create space while still providing flexibility for different uses.

Natural Light and Connection to Nature: Large windows maximize natural light, connecting the interior spaces with the outside environment. This approach promotes calm and well-being.

Neutral Color Palettes: White, gray, black, beige or earth tones dominate minimalist designs to maintain visual calm.

Use of raw materials: Materials such as concrete, glass, wood, stone or steel are often left exposed or minimally processed to highlight their natural beauty. For example: Tadao Ando often uses concrete in combination with light to create serene spaces that are in harmony with nature.

Attention to detail: Minimalist architecture requires precision; every element must serve both aesthetic and functional purposes.

Modern development of minimalism

Minimalism continues to evolve in the 21st century, adapting to modern needs such as sustainability and technological advancement.

Integrating Sustainability: Modern minimalist architecture uses eco-friendly materials (such as recycled wood or energy-efficient glass) and sustainable practices such as passive solar design. For example, OTIIMA window solutions improve energy efficiency while maintaining a clean aesthetic.

Technological advances: Advanced construction technologies allow architects greater freedom to create lightweight structures that maintain a minimalist aesthetic. Assembly methods have also made it easier to quickly build minimalist homes without sacrificing quality.

Global influence and adaptation: Although minimalism has its roots in Western modernism (e.g., International Style), it has been adopted around the world due to its universal appeal. Scandinavian minimalism emphasizes warmth through natural materials like wood, combined with a coziness inspired by the hygge principle. Japanese minimalism continues to influence global trends, combining Zen principles with modern design.

Criticism and counter-movements: Despite its popularity, critics argue that minimalism can feel cold or impractical due to limited storage options and a lack of comfort. In response, hybrid styles such as “soft minimalism” have emerged, which combine minimalist principles with warmer textures or decorative elements for balance.