By: Jesi Tassava
Modern Architecture began to come about in the early 1900’s. Architecture began to see many changes after the Art Nouveau movement in which architects thought outside of the box. Unnecessary elements and decorations are removed, which is a huge change from the 10 years prior to Modernism. Simple geometric lines are used that are easy on the eyes and very functional. The sleek design of modern architecture makes this period extremely different from all others before it. It was primarily driven by technological and engineering developments that were a result of the Industrial Revolution.
La Grande Arche de la Défense was designed by Otto von Spreckelsenand was built in 1989. It has become one of the most recognizable and grand architectural masterpieces in France. It formed the “western end of [a] 5-mile axis that includes the Louvre, Place de la Concorde, and Arc de Triomphe” (Sunset, 1990). Since it has glass elevators that go to the top, it has given visitors a new view of Paris. It was built to reviatlize the city and promote new culture. It is the home of a great financial and business center which reflects the modern aspects of the building. The building itself is extremely simplistic, built with simple geometric shapes. La Grande Arche de la Défense reflects the removal of unnecessary architectural elements and the sleek designs of Modernism.
La Grande Arche de
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Source:
Another grand arch for Paris.” Sunset May 1990: 78D. Biography in Context. Web. 16 Apr. 2014.