The Color of Modernism: Paints, Pigments, and the Transformation of Modern Architecture in 1920s Germany

The myth that modernist architecture was white is exploded by The Color of Modernism, which offers a riot of color in modern architectural treatises, polemics, and buildings. It examines the different scientific and artistic color theories advanced by members of the German avant-garde in the early 20th century and how they influenced the modern movement. The book uses the German case to explore the new ways in which color was used in architecture and urban design, turning attention to an important yet overlooked aspect of the period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The notion that modernist architecture was characterized by pure white walls both inside and out is a pervasive myth that requires clarification. In reality, the color palette of modernist architecture was far more diverse and vibrant. The book "The Color of Modernism" seeks to dismantle this myth by presenting a wealth of color in modern architectural treatises, polemics, and buildings. Focusing on Germany in the early 20th century, a period considered foundational and influential for modernism, the book explores the various scientific and artistic color theories advanced by members of the German avant-garde, including Bruno Taut, Walter Gropius, and Hans Scharoun.

German color theory played a significant role in shaping the modern movement, and Germany serves as a prime case study for an international phenomenon that impacted modern architects worldwide. The book provides accessible introductions to the development of color theory in philosophy, science, and the arts, using the German case to examine the innovative ways in which color was employed in architecture and urban design. It highlights an often overlooked aspect of the early modernist period, shedding light on the profound influence of color on psychology, the paranormal, theories of sensory perception, and pleasure.

Through its exploration of these diverse topics, "The Color of Modernism" offers a fresh perspective on the early modernist period, challenging prevailing notions and revealing the rich tapestry of colors that characterized this influential architectural movement. By delving into the psychological, supernatural, sensory, and pleasurable dimensions of color, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of how it shaped the design and aesthetics of modernist buildings.

In conclusion, "The Color of Modernism" is a groundbreaking work that challenges the notion of modernist architecture as solely white and offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse and vibrant color palette of this architectural movement. By presenting a wealth of color in modern architectural treatises, polemics, and buildings, the book provides a new understanding of the early modernist period and its profound influence on the world of architecture and design.

Weight: 632g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350251335