The 70s were an era of abundance for architecture. What is 70s Architecture Called? Well, to an extent, it all depends on who you ask. Some may call it “friendly-modern” or “erratically-eclectic” or “thoroughly-classic”. It’s the term used to describe the flurry of new and exciting architectural creativity experienced in the 1970s, when the world was seemingly more flush with financial security than at any other time in history. Large-scale building projects were undertaken, new forms of construction and design technology were developed, and city skylines were transformed as a result.
Structures built in the 70s often utilized a bold and distinct aesthetic, favoring curves and shapes that risd up above their surrounding environment. It was the height of Postmodernism and its influence can be seen in the many daring projects built during the decade. The style influenced more than just the built environment – it impacted music, art and fashion, too. In this way, the 70s was characterized by an explosive and creative phenomenon in which a variety of ideas were born into reality.
What is 70s Architecture Called? International Style, as championed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, was the dominant style of the 60s and carried on into the 70s, until it started to be forgotten in favor of a different brand of Modernism. This new movement was based on the idea of defamiliarization and resulted in the emergence of Postmodernism and Structuralism. Buildings were conceptualized in various innovative ways, and these architectural experiments, along with Pop Art, formed the beginnings of the 70s architectural landscape.
The popular belief of the time was that architecture should be fun and youthful, so the 70s architects of the day took this ideology and ran with it. This new form of expression can be best seen in structures such as the CN Tower in Toronto and the iconic Sydney Opera House in Australia. Other prominent examples of this era include the Atlantic Terminal and London’s Barbican Centre. Each of these sites displays a unique stylistic language, based upon a combination of concrete, steel, glass and form-shifting shapes.
What is 70s Architecture Called? It is often thought of as a hybrid of a range of movements from the 1960s, including Structural Expressionism, Brutalism, Minimalism and many other styles. In addition to this, there was a period of heightened eco-friendliness and experimentation with environment-friendly and energy-efficient forms. Architects such as Richard Rogers, Norman Foster and Zaha Hadid are credited with introducing these ideas into the commercial and private sector.
It could be argued that the influence of the 70s Architecture can still be felt today. In cities across the world, there are a wide variety of architectural styles to be seen and the legacy of the 70s Architects is still apparent. In addition to this, the development of technological advances, such as 3D printing, AI, and robotics, have allowed Architects to access further opportunities, as well as allowing for the creation of new styles and forms.
Architectural Fads
What is 70s Architecture Called? It is also labeled a period of architectural fads. There was an emphasis on quick and distinctive structures, often centerpieces in public areas of cities. Examples of such structures include the Space Needle in Seattle, the Sydney Opera House in Australia and the CN Tower in Canada. While such structures still draw massive crowds, they are more of a sight-seeing experience than more practical, user-oriented structures.
The designs of the 70s Architects seemed to go against the grain of modern-day architecture. Their creativity and experimentation set the stage for a new wave of architecture, one less focused on the formulaic and predictable aesthetics of the modernist era.
Though such expressive architectural styles are still criticized by some, the majority of people recognize the incredible effort put forth by the 70s Architects and their recognition of the potential for the two-dimensional approach to the form of architecture. Such designs are thought of as statement architectures and are often marked by their creative and daring approach.
The Lasting Legacy
What is 70s Architecture Called? It can simply be defined as an intense period of architectural creativity, a temporary respite from the rigidity of modernism. The 70s Architectural Movement was part of a global shift in style and values, and was experienced on many levels. It had an incredible impact on the built environment and remains relevant today.
The lasting legacy of the 70s will remain in the ever-evolving landscape of the world’s cities and architecture. Architects of the 70s pioneered new trends in design, pushed boundaries, and experimented in ways not seen before in architectural history. The resurging interest in reviving the creative designs and forms of this era makes it clear that it is still inspiring new forms and styles today.
Future Perspectives
What is 70s Architecture Called? Architecture during the 70s was radical, passionate and full of creativity. This can still be seen in projects today, with prominent tastemakers such as Norman Foster, Zaha Hadid, and Mecanoo, who are all creating structures that draw inspiration from the period. Although this kind of architecture is no longer a dominant force, its influence is still present in the form of strong contemporary architectural styles.
The 70s Architectural Movement has also left its mark on the world at large. It was a period of creative expression which saw society shift from the previous era of architectural conformity. It has taught us that in order to truly create a new architectural style, one must go beyond prescribed conventions and trust in their own creative ability. This legacy still stands as highly applicable to the current state of design today.
Constructive Criticism
What is 70s Architecture Called? Critics of the 70s Architecture point out the fact that the period was marked by a trend of quick and cost-effective construction, often resulting in a short lifespan for projects, such as the World Trade Center in New York. They also criticize the fact that many of the period’s expressive architectures, while incredibly ambitious and iconic, were often not very practical in terms of everyday usage. Furthermore, the fact that this style of Expressionism had its roots firmly in the realm of Pop culture and was not necessarily embraced by the establishment means that its influence will always be limited in terms of widespread application.
On the other hand, those who are more tolerant of this style argue that it is pure expressionism and should be judged in its own right. They state that the period allowed for greater freedom in architectural and urban design and provided people with iconic urban landmarks. Furthermore, due to the fast-tracking of construction many commercial projects were completed quickly, leading to an increased rate of growth and redevelopment in cities across the globe.
Final Thoughts
What is 70s Architecture Called? An era of bold experimentation and creative expression, during which time Postmodernism and Structuralism developed into their mature and fully articulated forms. The link between the built environment, fashion and music of the period made architecture more accessible, with iconic structures being erected in numerous cities across the globe. While the movement is often criticized for its lack of practicality, its legacy remains apparent and continues to inspire the work of modern Architects.
