Marcel Breuer - 20th Century Modernism
Twentieth-century designer and architect Marcel Breuer (1902-1981) changed modern architecture and interiors. He even influenced “modern” furniture with several now classic designs.
His innovative aluminum and leather strap chair, designed in 1925, was very popular but not called the “Wassily” chain (named after the Italian manufacturer) until its re-release in the 1960s and again was exceptionally popular. The chair is considered a modern classic. The Cesca chair was probably copied more than any other chair in the 1970s and 80s, showing up in kitchens and dining rooms across America.
But designing buildings, homes, university buildings, corporate offices, churches, and museums are are considered some of the best works of 20th century Modernism, by a man considered on of the fathers of the movement.
He taught at Germany’s famous Bauhaus school of design and later at Harvard University’s architecture school after moving to the U.S.
The exhibit, Marcel Breuer: Design And Architecture at the National Building Museum covers all periods of his career including furniture, interiors, architectural work and materials. It includes drawings and photos, plans, videos and a searchable database to further research Breuer’s work.
The exhibit at the National Building Museum is one of Washington’s least visited but visually beautiful museums. It was originally the Pension Building, a place where in the late 1800s, hundreds of government clerks wrote pension checks for Civil War veterans. The building’s focal point is the massive 12-story atrium surrounded by huge faux-marble columns, which makes for a great photo op. The atrium has been used for several Presidential inaugural balls.
Additionally, across the street is the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, another great photo op.
Marcel Breuer: Design And Architecture
National Building Museum
401 F Street NW
Washington, DC 20001 (map it)
202-272-2448
Dates and Times - Through February 17, 2008. the museum is open daily 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., except Sundays when the museum opens at 11:00 a.m.,
Tickets - Admission to the museum is free, but a $5 donation is suggested.
Nearest Metro Subway Station - Judiciary Square - Red line, the station is adjacent to the museum, or use the DC Circulator.
Parking - Metered street and paid garage parking is available.
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1 Comment
With greater awareness of the Marcel Breuer’s monumental legacy, a deeper appreciation for his career contribution(s) seems to be growing steadily. This new interest in his life’s work has prompted key individuals - around the world - to take on a number of compelling, though challenging, preservation efforts. I myself have founded one such effort, for the Breuer designed Atlanta-Fulton Central Public Library. And though the site is well-preserved, it is nonetheless, currently under-threat of possible demolition.
Clearly, this is not an option.