MUSE
Luis Barragán
Architecture has the ability to make one gasp & pause due to its scale. It can draw your attention to spaces and details by mixing natural & man-made materials. Good architecture can transport you, and evoke a visceral feeling upon entering a space.
One element that is seldom tightly interwoven with architecture is colour. Not to say it doesn’t occur, but it’s often not essential to the vision of modern architects. It may be the reason that Luis Barragán stands so independently in a modern setting.
“One of Mexico's greatest architects, Luis Barragán…revolutionized modern architecture… with his use of bright colors reminiscent of the traditional architecture of Mexico.”
His own home has been recognised & is protected by UNESCO World Heritage, partly due to that bold use of colour, but mostly due to the combining of modern and traditional schools of thought. He established thinking focused on creating “architecturally harmonious surroundings and [to] avoid spoiling the natural landscape’s beauty.”
Barragán’s most notable works including Casa Gilardi, Cuadra San Cristobel & his aforementioned Casa Estudio, which epitomise his thinking and life work with complete integration of gardens, building and nature.
- Chloë Browne-Beck
It was too hard to choose one example of his work, so I’ve put a collection here. Our Pinterest board has many more images still. I thoroughly enjoyed deep-diving into the catalogue of Barragán’s work, and found particular joy in a selection of videos that walk, and dance you through his spaces virtually. Casa Gilardi owner Martin Luque is interviewed by Nowness, about its origins and living within the space. In Casa Estudio a contemporary dance group interact with the spaces. Music accompanies you through the quiet spaces of Casa Prieto by Arq Ziur.
For further reading, these articles were notable. An overview of Barragán’s work by Dwell. Casa Estudio details from ArchEyes. Striking visuals & French article of La Casa Pedregal from AD Magazine, France
The choice of which scarf to feature for Luis Barragán has simple criteria - bold use of colour, colour blocking, a mix of natural& man-made element, and something unique amongst its contemporaries.
Leah answers the above and evokes the spirit of Barragán. 100cm Square, 100% Silk Satin.