Bauhaus is a German word meaning “house” or “construction.” Initially, the term referred to an architectural school, but today Bauhaus is most commonly associated with the style of design and décor that became popular in Germany in the early 20th century. It focuses on creating functional designs that are also visually pleasing.
The Bauhaus movement was founded in Weimar, Germany, in 1919 by Walter Gropius, an architect, and artist. Gropius recognized that revolutions in the fields of fine arts, crafts, and decorative arts were stepping stones to a world that was more creative, more beautiful, and more practical.
It even lauded simplicity, function, and logic. It also emphasized that décor contributes to the aesthetics of a building or room and its practical use. The style is called “Modern” because it was born in the same era as other 20th-century modernist trends in Europe and the United States.
In the philosophy of Bauhaus design, form and function must be one, for each is dependent on the other. This is why in every room where form takes a back seat to function, it is reflected within the décor.
The Bauhaus-style decor is simple, clean, concise, and smooth. The majority of its designs are geometric and asymmetrical. While traditional furniture has many decorative details, its variants have fewer, but they are more critical, serve more practical functions, and are often more sculptural in shape.
Known for its bright colors and bold patterns, it presents a minimalist look emphasizing symmetry and simplicity. Bauhaus furniture also features straight lines, squares, rectangles, and sharp, angular forms, images that most people are familiar with.
Bauhaus also emphasizes harmony, balance, and symmetry. If one element bears too much weight, the design is inappropriate. When the room is off-balance, the user’s attention may be diverted from its function.
It is a style that carries the essence of modernism. However, unlike other modernist types, it is also an accessible style. This is because it still allows the use of traditional elements (such as wood and metal) while maintaining the Modernist design principles.
Basic Design Principles of Bauhaus
1. There Are No Restrictions.
Bauhaus items are unadorned, and the design is always simple. Since there are no restrictions, the user can create a look that is either glamorous or minimalist.
2. Emphasis on Form.
Bauhaus emphasizes form, function, and purpose. In the Bauhaus style, it is simple and pared down. The style provides optimum comfort, ease, and convenience when it comes to function.
3. Use of Natural Materials.
Bauhaus design uses natural and raw materials. It is not about pretentiousness. Case in point, Bauhaus furniture is often made up of natural materials, such as wooden tables and chairs and metal frames. This makes the designs rustic and charming.
4. Eliminating Unnecessary Elements in a Design.
Unnecessary decorative designs are often removed since they stick to their simplicity and minimalism. Clean lines and smooth surfaces even characterize the furniture design.
5. Functionality Is Key.
The Bauhaus design emphasizes that every design, every shape, every line, and color must have a function in a particular space. Usage and purpose were a pretty reasonable approach when this style was first established, so this shouldn’t come as a surprise at all.
6. Emphasis on Space.
The Bauhaus design uses space to its maximum potential. This is the principle that drives the home’s functionality, as it should. Anything that occupies the free space in excess is considered unnecessary clutter.
Conclusion
Overall, the Bauhaus-style decor definitely made its mark in the history of prominent designs. Even though it was established many decades ago, it still made itself timeless because of how it is still implemented by modern interior and fashion designers.
If you want to use it for your home, feel free to do your own research and apply a couple of touches indoors that will significantly show the positive impact of the Bauhaus-style decor!
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