Deborah Ascher Barnstone Knihy

One of the most enduring myths about modernist architecture is that it was characterized by pure white walls. The Color of Modernism challenges this notion by showcasing the vibrant use of color in modern architectural treatises, polemics, and buildings. Focusing on early 20th-century Germany, a pivotal period for modernism, it explores various scientific and artistic color theories promoted by the German avant-garde, including figures like Bruno Taut, Walter Gropius, and Hans Scharoun. German color theory significantly influenced the modern movement, serving as a key case study for an international phenomenon that affected architects worldwide, such as Le Corbusier and Alvar Aalto. The book provides accessible introductions to the evolution of color theory in philosophy, science, and the arts, highlighting innovative uses of color in architecture and urban design during this era. More than just a historical correction, it invites readers into a colorful exploration of psychology, the paranormal, sensory perception, and pleasure, revealing how these elements shaped the modern movement. This work will transform the understanding and discussion of the early modernist period.