The Barcelona Pavillion

DSC05694The Barcelona Pavilion – Ludwig Mies van der Rohe- 1929

Designed by Mies van der Rohe the Barcelona Pavillion was the German entry for the 1929 international exposition in Barcelona. The structure is very in keeping with the work and style of Mies van der Rohe. The design, simple, the lines, clean and the finish, luxurious. The architect’s use of marble really adds to the beauty and elegance of the pavilion whilst keeping to his all important ethos ‘Less is more’.DSC05680DSC05732The very well known chair (pictured above) was designed by Mies van der Rohe along with furniture designer Lily Reich. It was designed especially for this exhibition and was aptly named ‘The Barcelona chair’. The chair ( although most commonly seen in black) has become an icon in 20th century furniture design.

After the exposition the pavilion was dismantled as it was only ever intended to be a temporary structure. Fortunately in 1983 the pavilion was reconstructed from original plans and photographs. It was compleated 1986.DSC05731This cantilever chair was also designed by Mies van der Rohe. It sits on the base of the pavilion providing the person who sells the entry tickets with a comfortable (and stylish) place to sit. Which is a perfect touch.

 

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

b. 27.03.1886 d. 17.08.1969

Mies van der Rohe was a pioneering German architect whose work was at the forefront of the modernist design movement. Mies van der Rohe was the director of the Bauhaus school of art and design from 1930-1933. After leaving Germany he moved to America where he was able to realise his dream of building a skyscraper, something that was not possible in Germany ( in the war years under Hitler’s reign over Germany).

He became the head of an architectural school in Chicago, and continued his work in the USA.

I think every person who reads this will know something of the work of Mies van der Rohe, either by his famous Barcelona chair (commonly seen in black).

dsc05698.jpg

Or by his very famous quotes:

“God is in the detail” Mies van der Rohe

Wait for it, this one you will definitely know:

“Less is more” Mies van der Rohe