Mies van der Rohe

Renowned for his guiding principle "less is more," Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886–1969) is celebrated as a pivotal figure in modern architecture and a significant influencer in the aesthetics and urban design of the twentieth century. Mies van der Rohe's architectural philosophy centered around the pursuit of truth through pure forms and proportions. Leveraging advances in contemporary technology and materials, he aimed to achieve a minimalist purity, as demonstrated in iconic works like the Seagram Building and the Farnsworth House. While some critics viewed his stark approach as a catalyst for monotonous, utilitarian urban landscapes, others regard Mies van der Rohe as a master of timeless elegance.This book highlights more than 20 of Mies van der Rohe's projects from 1906 to 1967, showcasing his innovative practice and influential impact across America and Europe. Part of the Basic Art Series, which began in 1985 and has become the best-selling art book series, each volume in TASCHEN's Basic Architecture collection provides an exploration of an architect's life and works. The series includes an introduction to the architect's significant projects in chronological order, insights into client relationships, architectural challenges, and solutions, as well as a comprehensive list of chosen works accompanied by maps pinpointing the locations of the most prominent buildings. Each book also includes roughly 120 illustrations, encompassing photographs, sketches, drafts, and plans.