Post-war social housing
Frampton summarizes the need for a new, distinct architectural style, asserting that ‘ In architecture, as in other matters, Britain was in the final stages of relinquishing its imperial identity ’ (Frampton, 1980 (A). Neoclassicism was the dominant style used across the Empire, 13 epitomized by the Viceroy’s palace in New Delhi (figure 2), completed in 1929: a vast construction larger than Versailles built for the Viceroy of India (Frampton, 1980 (B)). Even before the end of the war, modernismwas seen as
Fig 2. Viceroy’s House, New Delhi: the east front (Gill, 1931)
in conflict ideologically with neoclassicism, both through its style and what it represented. While neoclassicism symbolized imperialism and belief in British superiority, modernismwas representative of hope for the future, and that the country could be a better place for all its citizens. When the war ended, this attitude was adopted by advocates within the London County Council’s (LCC) Architect’s Department. Many young architects placed huge importance on the ability of architecture and new developments to influence and create social change ( Building Sights Series 4: 6. Alton Estate. , 2019). Indeed, Architectural writer and historian Owen Hopkins comments that modernism was ‘ the most visible manifestation . . . of the post-war belief in the common good, and progress towards a country that’s more comfortable and affluent for all’ (Manson, 2016).
The potential for modernism’s success had been proven elsewhere already. As the war ended, Swiss architect and pioneer of modernism Charles-Édouard Jeanneret (who worked under the pseudonym Le Corbusier) began planning for his first Unité d’habitation (housing unit) in Marseilles (figure 3). When construction finished in 1952, it was seen by architects around the world as the future of living. The building contained a variety of amenities (a shopping street, a hotel andmore), andwas set in a broad expanse of parkland. The structure of the Unité is commonly referred to as a ‘slab block’ due to its rectangular silhouette and is set on pilotis. 14 Within the block itself, the apartments aremaisonettes – two-
Fig. 3
storey living units within another larger building. The windows are large and span the width of each unit, allowing the apartments to be filled with natural light during the day. The combination of light, green space, an enticing view, and a warm climate results in a pleasant living experience which differs significantly from the norm at the time: small terraced houses at street level. Le Corbusier’s interpretation of modernism, often called the International style, was revered and adopted by countless
13 Neoclassicismwas the architectural revival of the classical style: characterized by its enormous scale, geometric simplicity, Greek or Roman details, the dramatic use of columns, and blank walls. 14 Columns which support and suspend a structure from below.
4
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software