INTERNATIONAL MODERNISM AND THE PERCEPTION OF IDSTORIC SIGNIFICANCE
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Date
1998-08
Authors
Falsetto, Paul M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
International Modernism, the predominant architectural style of postwar America, established a new system of aesthetics strikingly dissimilar from those of previous decades. Today these Modernist buildings are experiencing strong opposition regarding their consideration as historic resources. This thesis explores the history and theory behind the Modernist aesthetic, identifying specific features that inherently conflict with the general perception of the style's historic significance.
A survey was conducted to gather opinions on typical Northwest Modernist buildings that exhibit a variety of materials, forms and levels of articulation. Architects, preservationists and members of the general public ranked twenty-four images of buildings based both on general preference and their perception of historic significance, recording specific features that affected their choices. Results showed a clear preference for buildings using more traditional materials and massing, and a strong relationship between the buildings which respondents preferred and those they considered to be historically significant.
Description
212 pages
Keywords
International Modernism, historic style, postwar era, historic preservation, historic significance