Walter Adolph Georg Gropius

Walter Adolph Georg Gropius (May 18, 1883 – July 5, 1969) was a German architect and founder of the Bauhaus School who, along with Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Le Corbusier, is widely regarded as one of the pioneering masters of modern architecture.

For Walter Gropius, design was based upon “the new architecture,” of moving on from what has previously been done. Architecture is no longer just about shelter, but of expression. The world has moved on from the immense structures needed for structural stability and protection. In the modern world we can now focus on the architecture itself and it’s purpose in our lives, rather than viewing it as merely a backdrop to life. Architecture no longer needs any garnish- the structure and materials are what makes a structure beautiful. The essence of Walter Gropius’ architecture is not of turning our backs to the past, but capturing what lies at the heart of every building and expressing it fully.

“The New Architecture” of Walter Gropius embraced the new materials and technologies of the modern world. he believed that good design should be available to all, and believed that it was possible through standardization and pre-fabricated homes. He claimed that was the key to organized society. Yet the most distinguishing aspect of his buildings was the use of walls. To Gropius, there was no longer any need for immense masonry walls, that it was time to let in the world, resulting in his extensive use of exterior glass walls. Structure was showcased, function defined his buildings. but most of all, he believed that simple forms provided the best way to express life.

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