LESS IS MORE

‘Less is more’ is a guideline of modern architecture and minimalism. It is related to functional designs that are reduced to their essential elements in an expression of utmost simplicity. Related with the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, it was an able trademark for his pursuit for design virtue. His “less is more” idea is present in his building designs known for simple lines and planes, including the Farnsworth House, the Seagram Building, and SR Crown Hall.

The deliberate logical contradiction helps make it important, however basically it signifies “the less muddled the design, the better.” The less of toning it down would be ideal is clear in crafted by Mies and other mid-century current planners, however the more signifies ‘better,’ with a note of pseudo-profound enthusiasm.

This architectural aphorism defines modernist ethic referring to reduced and distilled architecture and its components into simple forms. Its about integration of geometry and matter to express things cogently. To bring out success in any project, architectural decisions should be focused on maximizing the return. The ‘less is more’ approach in architecture requires categorizing the priority requirements and then doing it in the easiest way you can, ensuring that the key priorities are met technically with least set of decision points.

In today’s time the demand to use least resources without any compromise on comfort and beauty has risen the need to get inspiration from historical architecture. Success of any architectural structure, which is a product of imagination, creativity and invention, depends on harmony and proportion of its elements. Architecture has adapted to less is more based on necessity and economy of means.

Minimalism in architectural designs is striving to achieve harmony through simplicity. Itis commonly characterized by pure geometric forms, clean & straight lines, plain materials & colors, visual simplicity, repetition of forms, solids and voids. E.g Church of Light designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando has no exuberant décor rather just a double- height ceiling and clean lines, no big painting but only a cross across an entire façade. This is a great example where architect has attempted to bring nature and the built space together in such a manner that it is strikingly visible to the visitor.

The structures build on this approach are although basic in nature and form but are thoroughly designed keeping in mind every detail of functionality which is explicitly experienced and felt by the user or visitor.

The traditional Japanese and Zen styles are also based on minimalism. The traditional Japanese structures built in this style is characterized by sweeping main roofs, imposing tie beams, and earthen floors. The simplicity of the Zen design encourages thoughtful contemplation and awareness of one’s space

The world we live in is defined by architecture and design. The built environment defines our lives thus defining our objective for creating joyful living spaces and delivering awesome structures. But while doing this what needs to be kept in mind is “less is more”. We should learn from Leonardo da Vinci who said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”

Lego model Of Farnsworth House, Plano , Illinois , USA, designed by Ludwig Meis van der Rohe.