Improving architecture for wellbeing with Luis Barragan colour theory
B.L. van der Windt (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Vincent Baptist – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
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Abstract
Luis Barragán (1902 - 1988) is a famous Mexican architect who once said: “I believe in an ‘emotional architecture.’ It is very important for human kind that architecture should move by its beauty; if there are many equally valid technical solutions to a problem, the one which offers the user a message of beauty and emotion, that one is architecture.” (Ambasz, p. 8, 1976) This statement highlights the essence of this thesis. The thesis examines the innovative use of color by architect Luis Barragán and its potential to inform modern design methodologies to improve human well-being.
Luis Barragán's architecture is highly distinctive and is characterized by bold and striking color palettes. The colors and lighting were cleverly placed to give the users a specific experience. Another quote he said is: “My house is my refuge, an emotional piece of architecture, not a cold piece of convenience.” (Ambasz, p. 8, 1976) This philosophy is the foundation of his architecture.
The impact of Barragán's use of color in architecture was extraordinary, as he created emotional and spiritual spaces that manipulated the perception of spaces and promoted the well-being of the users. He believed that: “any work of architecture which does not express serenity is a mistake,” emphasizing his focus on creating calming spaces in an increasingly chaotic world (Ambasz, p. 8, 1976).
By examining the methods of Luis Barragán and the lasting impact of his architecture, the goal of this thesis is to outline future directions for improving well-being through the use of color in architecture.