The paradox of a modernist craftsman
Marcel Breuer - the mass-produced craftsman masterpiece
H.V. Mirova (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Phoebus I. Panigyrakis – Mentor (TU Delft - Urban Design)
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Abstract
Marcel Breuer is an iconic figure not only in the world of architecture but also in design. The interesting turn in his career and his professional journey from a craftsman to a designer and later to an architect gives a very good example of the important role of craft in architecture. The following paper analyses selected projects from the different periods of his career development. A red thread is defined through the years in terms of design approach and style. His work is analysed and used as a starting point on a discussion about the current architectural development. The paper offers interesting comparative analysis and conclusions about the place of art and craft in architecture nowadays and the existing paradox between it and the industrialization and mass production taking place.