Synopsis 2

1. BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN ARCHITECTURE
THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM
(ARC61303)
SYNOPSIS: REACTION PAPER (MARCH 2018)
Name: Teoh Jun Xiang ID No.: 0322099
Lecturer: Mr. Nicholas Ng Tutorial Time: 10 – 12pm
Reader/Text Title: In The Cause for Architecture Synopsis No: 2
Author: Frank Lloyd Wright
Frank Lloyd Wright’s article “In The Cause for Architecture”, which was published in the Architectural Record
in 1908, stood out as it was his first attempt to summarize his design philosophy. As the pioneer of organic
and modern architecture, Wright was one of the first architects to break from eclecticism.
Wright began his writing by highlighting his first propositions: simplicity and repose, which he believed are
traits that define the true value of art. “Architecture is a scientific art.” (Wright, 1908, p. 57). As such, the final
characteristics of this art should be simple yet functional. The author further suggested that works should
continue to embody this trait in the future, to become more articulated without the need of excessive and
meaningless architectural elements (Wright, 1908, p. 57). Indeed, it is agreeable that, at times, less is a bore.
In addition, the author emphasized on individualism, which is the expression of one’s identity in an
environment (Wright, 1908, p. 52). Contrary to the negative effects of individualism discussed in Simmel’s
essay, Wright encouraged the idea in hopes that America will someday develop its own architectural identity
and refrain from the use of repetitive European architectural style (Wright, 1908, p.53). One must acknowledge
that it was his determination that led to the development of modern architecture as we know today.
Lastly, the author defined the meaning of organic contextual architecture, which is to allow buildings to evolve
naturally from their context (Wright, 1908, p. 52). We are encouraged to understand the organic nature of the
users, the building and its site in order to develop a harmony between them. By doing so, the building and its
natural context will function as a carefully considered whole, thus maintaining the integrity of these elements.
In a nutshell, the development of simple contextual architecture, as encouraged by Wright, could be taken
into consideration when designing buildings. However, its full realization in today’s construction industry may
not be completely applicable due to the emergence of new architectural philosophies and differing contextual
characteristics. Nonetheless, his contributions to the development of modern architecture is praiseworthy.
Word Count: 344 words Mark Grade
Assessed by: Date 23/5/18 Page No. 2