Deconstructivist architecture emerged in the 1980s, during a time of economic and political instability. The movement rejected the idea of a unified, harmonious design and instead embraced fragmentation, instability, and unpredictability.
The ornamentation in Deconstructivist architecture reflects these values by rejecting the traditional notion of decoration as something that enhances beauty or meaning in a building. Instead, Deconstructivist ornamentation is often abstract, asymmetrical, and fragmented. It disrupts the overall coherence of the building, creating a sense of disorientation and unpredictability.
The use of industrial materials such as raw steel, glass, and concrete as ornamentation reflects the era's emphasis on technology and modernization. These materials are functional and visually striking, but they also carry a sense of coldness and detachment.
Overall, the ornamentation in Deconstructivist architecture reflects the values of the era by rejecting traditional notions of beauty and creating a sense of instability and unpredictability. It emphasizes the importance of technology and modernization, while also highlighting the fragility and impermanence of human constructs.
Publication date: