Organic Architecture

4/5/2007

It would make the people different who inhabited that space.

-William Cronon, Historian

So here I stand before you preaching organic architecture: declaring organic architecture to be the modern ideal and the teaching so much needed if we are to see the whole of life, and to now serve the whole of life, holding no ‘traditions’ essential to the great TRADITION. Nor cherishing any preconceived form fixing upon us either past, present or future, but—instead—exalting the simple laws of common sense—or of super-sense if you prefer— determining form by way of the nature of materials.

-Frank Lloyd Wright, An Organic Architecture, 1939

What the building achieves with perhaps more drama than any other single private residence is the placement of man in relation to nature.

- Frank Lloyd Wright, Architect

Proper Sun and Wind Orientation:     Cross-ventilation

                                                            Passive solar gain

                                                            Sun shading devices

Lanai:                                                  open to elements on three sides

Lofty Roof and High Ceiling:                        releases hot air and drains off heavy rain

White Paint:                                        reflects heat

Use of local materials

Frank Lloyd Wright used the word "organic" to describe his philosophy of architecture. It was an extension of the teachings of his mentor, Louis Sullivan, whose slogan, "form follows function", became the mantra of modern architecture. Wright changed this phrase to "form and function are one," claiming Nature as the ultimate model.

Organic Architecture is not a style of imitation, but rather, a reinterpretation of Nature's principles to build forms more natural than nature itself.

Organic architecture is also an attempt to integrate the spaces into a coherent whole: a marriage between the site and the structure and a union between the context and the structure.

More than green, beyond individual, Organic Architecture describes a way of thinking about design that transcends the common, everyday buildings around us.

ecological + individual = organic

While Organic Architecture does describe environmental concerns, it also embodies the human spirit, transcending the mere act of shelter into something which shapes and enhances our lives.

While Organic Architecture does describe an expression of individuality, it also explores our need to connect to Nature.

Just as in Nature, Organic Architecture involves :

•         respect for natural materials

•         blending into the surroundings

•         honest expression of the function of the building