The Language of Architecture at Eindhoven University of Technology: Exploring Rudolf Olgiati’s Work

Delicately crafted models by twelve students at Eindhoven University of Technologywill be the feature of an exhibit on Rudolf Olgiati called Die Sprache der Architektur (The Language of Architect).  Oligiati was a Swiss Architect of the mid-20th century whose work has been attributed to the New Objectivist Movement.  His work, which largely featured single family homes, brought a modernist aesthetic to the tradition of the mountainous Grisons of eastern Switzerland.

More on this exhibit after the break.

Oligiati is valued for his ability to honor the traditions of Grison architecture, while bringing the universality of structure and modern construction to a united aesthetic.  These projects reflect a sensitivity to the formal and ideological values of a traditional architecture.  The models presented by the students of Eindhoven University are built out of white clay, wood and slate and evoke the architectural language of Oligiati’s projects.

The project, run by studio director Jan Schevers, was inspired by a conversation with architect Peter Märkli on the idea of architectural language.  The research studio conducted an analysis of Olgiati’s work in the village of Flims in Switzerland where many of his buildings are located.  The study gave the students a working knowledge of architectural tools that were later used in the design of a holiday home, using the language of an admired architect and reapplying it to contemporary design.

The exhibition opened on November 27th with lectures and discussions.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Project Credits:

Jan Schevers, Studio Tutor

Participating Students:

Mark Gijsbers
Barak Gul
Tom Haagen
Christian Hazeleger
Christopher Ho
Bas Jansen
Ilse Kampers
Jorrit Klaver
Sam de Koning
Luuk de Rouw
Loes Smeets
Willemke Snijders