Paper Summary:

This paper explains that the development of a postmodern architectural style can best be understood as a reaction to the modernist perception of art and architecture. The paper explains that, in the postmodern view, ornament is not seen as being extraneous and superfluous, but rather as a valid and important extension and addition to the meaning and the context of the architectural work. The postmodern style reintroduced the value of ornamentation as part of the eclectic and 'open ended' nature of postmodern and post-structural thinking. The paper describes this ornamentation in the work of Hans Hollein, Michael Graves and Robert Venturi. Several colored pictures are included with the paper.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Post Modernism
Ornament
Ornaments Role in Postmodern Architecture
Example of the Work of Robert Venturi
Example of the Work of Michael Graves
Example of the work of Hans Hollein
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Graves achieved international recognition for his design for a Portland Public Services Building in 1980. Another building that bears his unique postmodern stamp is Humana Corporate Headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky (1982). He is also well known for his creative extension to the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York (1985-87). Among his many other works is the Dolphin and Swan Hotels at Disney World in Orlando. These works also make extensive use of decoration and ornamentation."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Burke Nichols, K., and Burke, P. (Eds.). 1995. Michael Graves, Buildings and Projects, 1990-1994. New York: Rizzoli International Publications.
• Conway, H., & Roenisch, R. 1994. Understanding Architecture: An Introduction to Architecture and Architectural History. New York: Routledge.
• HANS HOLLEIN: Architect, Designer, Artist. Available: http://www.hollein.com/index1.php?lang=en&l1ID=1[23 August 2008]
• Hvattum, M. & Hermansen, C. (Eds.). 2004. Tracing Modernity: Manifestations of the Modern in Architecture and the City. New York: Routledge.
• Kearney, R. 1994. The Wake of Imagination: Toward a Postmodern Culture. London: Routledge.

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