De Stijl architecture, also known as Neoplasticism, was an art and design movement that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in the Netherlands. The movement embraced minimalism and sought to emphasize abstraction, geometric shapes, and primary colors. It also emphasized a concept known as "form follows function."
The principle of "form follows function" suggests that the design of an object or structure should be based on its intended function or purpose. In architecture, this means that the shape, arrangement, and style of the building should be determined by its functional requirements rather than ornamental or decorative elements. De Stijl architecture strongly adhered to this principle by emphasizing simplicity, purism, and a reduction of form to the most basic geometric shapes.
De Stijl architects sought to create functional spaces that would fulfill their purpose efficiently, while also integrating visual harmony and coherence. They believed that by reducing the architecture to its most essential elements, it would achieve a universal character and timeless quality. This approach can be seen in the clean lines, rectangular shapes, and simple layouts commonly used in De Stijl architecture.
Overall, De Stijl architecture related to the concept of "form follows function" by prioritizing the functional aspects of a design and subordinating any superfluous or unnecessary ornamentation. The movement aimed to create a visual language that reflected the rationality and purity of form necessary for a building to fulfill its intended purpose effectively.
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