Form follows harmony

Abstract

In this thesis, it is being examined how music influenced the design strategy of two renowned architects: Le Corbusier and Steven Holl. The projects that are analyzed regard the Philips Pavilion in Brussels (1958) and the Stretto House in Dallas Texas (1989-1992). The design of the Philips Pavilion followed from a number of concept try-outs that led to the physical translation of a “Poème électronique”, created by Edgar Varèse and Le Corbusier. An analysis of this building shows how sound and design are inevitably interwoven with each other in a practical way and it states Le Corbusier’s opinion about the interference of music and architecture.

The Stretta House displays the design of a piece of music in a more philosophical way. The continuous and discontinuous tonal properties of the concert of Bèla Bartok (1937) “Music for String Instruments, Percussions and Celesta” are interpreted as horizontal and vertical structures. Roof form, window proportions, sizing and open and closed spaces display the different instruments used in the concert. A mathematical analysis brings together the idea of these two art pieces: A symphony and a residential house.

By discussing the used design methods and reviewing these two case studies, general differences and similarities can be stated about design techniques inspired by music over a time span of 30 years. Therefore, an imaginary discourse between Le Corbusier and Steven Holl, based on citations and true quotes, illustrates what could have happened if the two architects would have been working together on the design of the Stretto House. A crucial moment in the conceptual design phase of the Stretto House shows a breakthrough in linking the two arts. The result is a better understanding on what architectural designing with music entails. Therefore the following research question is asked:

“How can the implementation of musical elements contribute to an architectural design concept?”

Rhythm, proportion, harmony, unity, sound projection and other elements are key points that should be taken into account when designing. Holl and Le Corbusier strive to find a balanced interaction between order and disorder in their designs to create harmony. By comparing the definition of harmony in a musical structure with the definition in the field of architecture, new innovative ideas and alternative design approaches concluded in a reflection and conclusion of the imaginary discourse. There has been some experimenting with this concept before, so by reflecting on previous studies and critically analyzing the discourse between Le Corbusier and Steven Holl, a creative way of conceptual designing will be established. Learning from different arts like music opens possibilities to review and change existing design methods.