Design After Modernism

This insightful work examines the evolution of design movements, focusing on how Design After Modernism redefines contemporary aesthetics and influences.

In Design After Modernism, Judith Gura delves into the evolution of design from the 1950s to the present, exploring the significance of various movements such as Bauhaus, Postmodernism, High Tech, and Green Design. With the turn of the twenty-first century, the notion of 'modern' is reexamined, tracing its roots back to the Middle Ages when it simply meant current events. By the eighteenth century, it had transformed into a stylistic term, primarily associated with the aesthetic that emerged from the Bauhaus and gained prominence in the mid-twentieth century. Despite its claim to offer freedom from stylistic constraints, Modern architecture and furnishings became formulaic, adhering to rigid specifications characterized by geometric forms and industrial production.

As Midcentury Modernism fades into history, the definition of Modernism has evolved, embracing a diverse array of design philosophies and materials. Today, design studios serve as experimental laboratories, where concepts often hold as much weight as the finished products. The boundaries between different design disciplines have blurred, allowing architects, interior designers, artisans, and even fashion designers to contribute to the creation of innovative interiors and furniture, which have begun to be viewed as art forms in their own right.

Design After Modernism provides a comprehensive overview of the last four decades of design, highlighting both expected and extraordinary developments. Gura identifies the myriad influences that have shaped contemporary design, showcasing iconic and noteworthy objects that reflect their time. While some designs have already achieved iconic status, the future appreciation of newer creations remains uncertain, inviting readers to ponder their lasting impact.