Form follows function
‘Form follows function’ is a principle that proposes a building’s purpose should be the starting point for its design rather than its aesthetics. As an axiom, it is associated with modernist architects in the early-20th century, and can be termed 'functionalism'.
The phrase (which was actually 'form ever follows function'), was first coined by the American architect Louis Sullivan who helped develop the first steel skyscrapers in late-19th century Chicago. This period was a transformative one for architecture, as the new technologies and construction methods that developed during the Industrial Age meant that old and established styles could be adapted or replaced.
The principle suggested that, rather than buildings being designed in accordance with past precedents or stylistic trends, the purpose of the building would determine its form. The axiom became a touchstone for modernist architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright (who was an apprentice of Sullivan), who held that ‘form and function are one’, and rendered decorative elements as ‘ornamental’ and ‘superfluous’.
Many high-profile contemporary architects, such as Renzo Piano and Zaha Hadid, and designers of post-modern, high-tech buildings, have been criticised for their overt focus on form as opposed to practicality and functionality.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Aesthetics and architecture.
- Aesthetics and performance.
- Architectural styles.
- Bauhaus.
- Building design.
- Chicago school of architecture.
- Commercial style.
- Concept architectural design.
- Context.
- Contextualism.
- Design principles.
- Empirical design.
- Primary function.
- Function.
- Genius loci.
- International Style.
- Minimalist architecture.
- Modernist architecture.
- Monument and context.
- Open plan and cellular.
- Perspective.
- Postmodern architecture.
- Psychogeography.
- The history of fabric structures.
- Truth to materials.
- Zeitgeist.
Featured articles and news
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.
The story of this knowledge quarter building.
In ecology, in hydrology, in biology and in architecture.
Creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
UK cases of neutral current diversion
Research project looks for example contributions.
Overstocking and macro-economics cause a decline.
The 2024 update of the Common Assessment Standard
Demonstrating organisational capability’ to fulfil roles under the Building Safety Act.
56 recommendations for a better built environment
Published by the CIC ahead of the King’s Speech.
SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named
in annual search for the UK’s best student electrician.
CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet
Step-by-step guide on implementing D and I practices.
Conservation and the Indian City. Book review.
Reversibility in conservation ethics
Learning from painting conservation.
Where It's AT Podcast launched!
New CIAT Architectural Technology Podcast goes live.