Did you know that three words can define much of the architecture we see today?
Less is more! Today, at
Behind Pictures, we want to talk about
one of the great masters of architecture, Mies van der Rohe, whose innovative ideas marked a turning point. Join us as we explore one of the personalities who most influenced modern architecture, and discover how he
broke conventions by prioritizing simplicity over the prevailing trends of his time.
Who was Ludwig Mies van der Rohe?
Mies van der Rohe was born in the Kingdom of Prussia in 1886 and became a
highly influential architect and industrial designer. Can you believe that much of what we admire today emerged from something as simple as a form of expression? That was
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the most influential architects of the last century. He admired classical architecture but believed that living in the past would prevent progress. For this reason, the German
architect decided to innovate, leaving a legacy in a single aphorism: “
Less is more.”
Mies van der Rohe: Rationalism, International Style, or Modern Movement
Mies van der Rohe was a key figure in
promoting the Modern Movement, a series of trends that marked a break between two architectural eras. “Architecture is the will of an era translated into space…” was one of the
principles guiding his work. Understanding its meaning can be complex, but fortunately, we have an extensive portfolio of works that allow us to decipher it. Keep reading and be amazed by his projects!
Our top 5 Mies van der Rohe designs
We cannot build our thoughts if we don’t know the foundation… What did Mies van der Rohe mean by “less”? He believed it wasn’t necessary to include countless details, but rather to
express the spirit in each creation using various materials as
expressive elements. This approach made him a reference in architecture,
achieving a captivating simplicity in every glance, free from outdated obstructions. Discover below
our Top 5 of his designs.
1. Barcelona Chair (1928)
How can a chair become the icon of a movement? That was the power of the German pioneer’s vision. The
Barcelona Chair perfectly embodies the reconstruction era, featuring a graceful structure
designed by Mies van der Rohe and his collaborator, Lilly Reich.
2. German Pavilion, Barcelona International Exposition (1929)
Work in Barcelona was far from over for Ludwig. The German Pavilion was a magnificent project showcased at the
Barcelona International Exposition. It featured a
superb spatial organization designed by Mies van der Rohe, serving as a
presentation of the Modern Movement to the world.
3. S. R. Crown Hall (1956)
After relocating to a new continent,
Ludwig created one of his masterpieces in Illinois, Chicago. S. R. Crown Hall was designed for the Illinois Institute of Technology, allowing us to glimpse the
essence of his architecture perfectly.
4. Seagram Building (1954–1958)
The ambitious Seagram Building was a collaboration between
Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson, two visionaries who shaped and defined the Modern Movement. Located in
downtown Manhattan, New York, it was inaugurated in 1958. The building showcases the
radiant simplicity throughout every inch of its structure, which continues to captivate viewers today.
5. Neue Nationalgalerie (1962–1968)
This master couldn’t leave his hometown without leaving a mark, giving us the
Neue Nationalgalerie, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s final work. With the New National Gallery in Berlin, Mies van der Rohe revolutionized museum experiences, applying each of his design principles. The geometry of the Neue Nationalgalerie integrates seamlessly with the space, resulting in an
architectural marvel Ludwig never got to see, as he passed away shortly before its opening.
Behind Pictures, your render studio in Barcelona
At Behind Pictures, we firmly believe in the maxim “less is more,” a
legacy of Mies van der Rohe. If you’re thinking of renovating your home and want to bring a modernist touch but don’t know where to start,
don’t worry.
Contact us. At
Behind Pictures, we’ll listen to your ideas and
develop a project that aligns exactly with your vision.
We are your render studio in Barcelona!
