Architecture of Enlightenment

 Beginning in the late 17th century and continuing through the 18th century the period of enlightenment saw great adaptations within architecture due to the great advancements in science and technology, as well as the period also seeing advancements in politics and knowledge. Set in motion by revolution in certain countries and the steep rise in others, it saw Europe as a whole excel as a society. An example can be shown in France which saw the Revolution take place in 1789, this saw power be taken from the church and monarchy which allowed new ideas to be implemented in all aspects, not only politics, but also in design.

During the period the rise of Etienne-Louis Boullee was seen, with his own iconic thought process and vision, he followed his fathers footsteps into Architecture. His main focus was on neo-classical design, which saw unnecessary design elements removed and stripped to their basic needs with a focus on keeping symmetry and variety. An example of his work shows off the era of enlightenment focusing on the accomplishments of Sir Isaac Newton, the cenotaph he created used the reflection of light to create a glow, which was a new development within design, and was made on a huge scale. I found this extremely interesting as the first projects have created during my time on my Architecture course have involved some sort of light projection and this was one of the first to effectively implement it.

Another key designer is Ledoux, from his work it was the beginning of what we take for granted, the design of his theatre allowed everyone to be able to sit down, something that in modern day is very much the norm, but during this period it was almost unheard of. Prior to this only the wealthy were able to sit in the theatre, with the less wealthy having to stand at the front of the stage with the upper class seated behind and above. This design came in 1784 which was not long before the revolution, which went hand in hand with this design and the idea of equality between classes. 

Through this period, the combination of ethics and Architecture went hand in hand. This can be seen through the develop of science causing new techniques as well as new aesthetic being achieved, as well as the development of society creating a greater ideal of equality, which required design to change in order to complement the needs.