Modernism

Modernism incorporates ideas from the past and fits them into modern living. This can take a form of complete revision or subtle changes made to the original design in order to improve functionality.

Modernism is able in most parts to preserve the original shell of an object but change everything within, in order to harmonise it towards modern life. Post modernism appeared after modernism existed therefore it became an upgrade to modernism itself.

An example of modernist architecture could be places of worship, as these buildings have existed throughout thousands of years. Times and needs change, however the faith remains constant. Mosques are a prime example of modernism. The most significant factor in a mosque is the Kiblah (direction of prayer) this always remained as it was and it can never be changed. The other factor is the space required for congregational prayer. The outer shape is changed in accordance to the existing environment. The design has to represent the faith in a symbolical form; not to say there is a set number of rules for a design template that has to be utilized.

When is comes to a design for example, a car. It will remain a form of transport however it has been changed over the years. It’s changed its shape and engines have been forced to change due to the detrimental effects on the environment.

Overall modernism surrounds us everyday and there are many objects, which have been altered to suit modern living.

Denzer  S. Anthony “Masters of modernism” [Online] Available at: http://www.mastersofmodernism.com/?page=Modernism 
[Accessed 2^nd April 2013]