Richard Neutra: Berlin 1923

Richard Neutra's early works in Berlin-Zehlendorf, with their complex color schemes and extravagant interior design, reveal a fascinating phase in his career that hints at elements that will be taken up again in future projects. This publication provides a rightful appreciation of Neutra's early works and collects new and unpublished documents about the houses and their first residents.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 02 May 2019
Publisher: Hatje Cantz

Richard Neutra's (1892-1970) architectural career began in Berlin-Zehlendorf, where his light-flooded bungalows characterized the architectural style of the American West Coast surrounding Los Angeles. However, his early works in Zehlendorf are often overlooked. These houses, with their complex color schemes and extravagant interior design, represent a fascinating phase in Neutra's work. They are more than just an experimental and radically innovative design, as they hint at elements that would be taken up again in future projects.

This publication aims to provide a rightful appreciation of Neutra's early works and collects countless new and unpublished documents about the houses and their first residents. It sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of Neutra's career and offers a deeper understanding of his architectural vision.

The houses in Zehlendorf showcase Neutra's early experimentation with color and interior design. He used bold colors and intricate patterns to create a sense of drama and excitement in the spaces. The interiors were designed with a focus on functionality and comfort, with a blend of modern and traditional elements.

One of the most notable features of these houses is the use of natural light. Neutra believed in the importance of connecting the interior spaces with the surrounding environment, and he designed the houses with large windows and skylights to maximize natural light. This not only created a bright and airy atmosphere but also allowed for a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors.

Another important aspect of Neutra's early works is the integration of technology into the design. He used innovative materials and systems, such as steel and glass, to create modern and sleek structures. He also incorporated advanced heating and cooling systems, which were designed to optimize energy efficiency and comfort.

The houses in Zehlendorf also feature a unique blend of modern and traditional architectural styles. Neutra drew inspiration from various sources, including the California bungalow style and the International Style of modernism. He combined these styles to create a unique and distinctive architectural language that was characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment.

The first residents of these houses were a diverse group of people, including artists, architects, and intellectuals. They were drawn to Neutra's vision of creating a modern and functional living space that was also in harmony with nature. The houses provided a haven for creativity and innovation, and they played a significant role in the development of the modernist movement in architecture.

In conclusion, Richard Neutra's early works in Zehlendorf represent a fascinating phase in his architectural career. These houses, with their complex color schemes and extravagant interior design, reveal themselves to be more than just an experimental and radically innovative design. They hint at elements that would be taken up again in future projects and offer a deeper understanding of Neutra's architectural vision.

This publication provides a rightful appreciation of Neutra's early works and collects countless new and unpublished documents about the houses and their first residents. It sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of Neutra's career and offers a deeper understanding of his architectural legacy.

Weight: 1610g
Dimension: 233 x 275 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783775745154