2. About
● known for his modernist and postmodernist designs
● Stirling's work did incorporate historical references and
playful elements
● he operated within a slightly different context and style
compared to Venturi and Scott Brown
3. Sir James Frazer Stirling
(1926-1992)
● Born in Glasgow, Scotland
● Studied from Liverpool University
● 1956-1992, architectural practice (with James
Gowan and later with Michael Wilford)
● Works mainly in England, US and Germany
● His classroom projects mainly based on Classicism
of Ecole des Beaux Arts
● But he himself was concentrated on International
style
● 1970s Buildings in US show contextualism
● His German projects, including Staatsgalerie are
postmodern
● Pritzker Prize in 1981
5. James Stirling
1926-1992
He was one of the earliest architects to use
technology and new materials in architecture, but he
always believed that the humanistic approach has to
be given more importance
Started with International style (1950s)-small scale
houses and housing complexes all built with traditional
bricks and traditional English forms of warehouses,
factories, barns etc.
Modern-functional, austere(no ornamentation) and
with volumes defined by clean spaces and lines.
But these were very humane in scale and style
Communal vitality and integration in terms of space
and circulation.
In the 1970s, James Stirling's architecture shifted from
small-scale to large, incorporating neoclassical
elements alongside his revised modernist style, seen
in dramatic urban projects.
6. Worked with Lyons, Israel & Ellis before partnering with
James Gowan
Influenced by Le Corbusier's later designs and the theories
of the Smithsons
Started a trend towards brick and exposed concrete in
architecture
Early designs prioritized concept over aesthetic and
utilitarian needs
Later works leaned towards Post-Modern classicism,
appearing more formal
Criticized for shifting his fundamental architectural
principles
Collaborated with Michael Wilford from 1971 onwards
Expanded into larger projects such as museums, galleries,
libraries, and theaters
James Stirling
8. Design Philosophy
Contextualism: Designing in response to historical,
cultural, and physical contexts.
Historical References: Incorporating historical
elements playfully and ironically.
Formal Innovation: Using bold shapes, asymmetry,
and complex compositions.
Materiality and Detailing: Paying attention to
materials for expressive purposes.
Color and Contrast: Employing vibrant colors for
visual impact and personality.
Function and Programmatic Innovation:
Designing for specific uses with user experience in
mind.
Rejection of Dogma: Embracing an eclectic and
open-ended approach to design.
9. Major
Projects
The Engineering Building at
the University of Leicester
(1959-63)
The Neue Staatsgalerie in
Stuttgart, Germany (1977-
84)
The Clore Gallery extension
to the Tate Britain in London
(1980-87)
10. In an article written in 1979 for Contemporary Architects, Stirling said, "I
believe that the shapes of a building should indicate—perhaps
display—the usage and way of life of its occupants, and it is therefore
likely to be rich and varied in appearance, and its expression is
unlikely to be simple...in a building we did at Oxford some years ago, it
was intended that you could recognize the historic elements of
courtyard, entrance gate towers, cloisters; also a central object
replacing the traditional fountain or statue of the college founder. In
this way we hoped that students and public would not be disassociated
from their cultural past. The particular way in which functional-
symbolic elements are put together may be the "art" in the
architecture."
..."If the expression of functional-symbolic forms and familiar
elements is foremost, the expression of structure will be secondary,
and if structure shows, it is not in my opinion, the engineering which
counts, but the way in which the building is put together that is
important."
12. ART GALLERY ADDITION,
STAATSGALERIE, STUTTGART
• Architect: James Stirling
• Location: Stuttgart, Germany
• Construction Period: 1977 - 1983
• Building Type: Art Museum
• Construction System: Stone Cladding
• Style: Post-Modern
13. Design & Features
New Building (Neue Staatsgalerie):
● Postmodern Aesthetic: characterized by its playful forms,
eclectic mix of materials, and vibrant colors.
● Complex Composition: design for the New Building
features a complex composition of interlocking geometric
volumes, varied rooflines, and asymmetrical facades,
creating dynamic and visually intriguing spaces.
● Materials: concrete, steel, glass, and colored panels,
adding texture and visual interest.
● Color and Detailing: use of bold colors, particularly the
bright red color of the main entrance, which contrasts with
the neutral tones of the Old Building.
● Interior Spaces: Inside, the museum provides spacious
galleries with ample natural light, creating an inviting and
immersive environment for visitors to experience art.
14. Design & Features
Old Building (Alte Staatsgalerie):
● Classicism: The Alte Staatsgalerie, designed by Gottlob
Georg Barth in the Neoclassical style, serves as a historical
contrast to Stirling's postmodern addition.
● Historical Context: The juxtaposition of the Old and New
Buildings reflects Stuttgart's architectural history,
showcasing a dialogue between traditional and
contemporary design.
18. Purpose of Addition: The addition included a new gallery extension, a
chamber theater, and a music school, expanding the functions of the
Staatsgalerie.
Integration with Site: The design had to incorporate a pedestrian walk
diagonally across the property without compromising building security,
showcasing Stirling's thoughtful approach to site integration.
Initial Reception: The design initially faced criticism in the German press due
to its departure from classical modernist principles, but it later gained
recognition for its innovative reinterpretation of architectural traditions.
References and Influences: The design references existing buildings, both
old and new, rewarding close study. It draws inspiration from classical
museums like Shinkel's Altes Museum in Berlin but introduces new elements
like the open-air circular court, creating a modern and public-friendly space.
19.
20. CREDITS: This presentation template was created by Slidesgo, and
includes icons by Flaticon, and infographics & images by Freepik
Thanks!
