HIGH-TECH

"High-Tech architecture exalts and exploits new technologies for both practical purposes and visual impact, using forms and materials expressive of modern industrial technology rather than traditional building materials" (Dempsey 274).

Architectural Review devoted an issue to High-Tech in 1983. High-Tech architecture involves collaboration between the architects and civil engineers. The most prominent architects are British: Sir Norman Foster (1935- ) and Sir Richard Rogers (1933- ). But see also Anthony Hunt Associates. Influences include the Futurists, Expressionists, and especially Buckminster Fuller.

See:

Reliance Control Factory, Swindon (1965-66, demolished 1991) -- Norman Forster and Richard Rogers. The beginning of High-Tech, with "restrained elegance" and "structural directness" (Dempsey 274).

Georges Pompidou Centre, Paris (1971-1977) -- Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. A surrealistic evocation of Jean Tinguely's kinetic artworks.

Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Headquarters (1979-1986) -- Norman Foster and Partners. The rocket-launcher look was influenced by "sources outside the traditional building industry, such as 'military establishments coping with mobile bridges to take tank loadings'" (qtd. in Dempsey 274).

Sydney Opera House (1956-1974) -- more Expressionist than High-Tech but created by Ove Arup and Partners, a prominent High-Tech firm.

Lloyd's Building, London (1978-1986) -- Richard Rogers Partnership.

Hong Kong International Airport (1992-1998) -- Foster and Arup.

Millennium Dome, Greenwich (1996-1999) -- Richard Rogers Partnership with Ove Arup. The roof is made of Teflon-coated fiberglass.

Millennium Bridge (2000) -- Foster and Arup.

e-House2000 -- Michael McDonough: "a high-tech, web-based, environmentally appropriate house, located near the Catskills in New York, and developed in collaboration with engineers, builders, manufacturers, scientists and environmentalists, applies some techniques pioneered by the High-Tech architects" (Dempsey 275).

Works Consulted

Dempsey, Amy. Art in the Modern Era: A Guide to Styles, Schools & Movements. NY: Harry N. Abrams Inc., Pub., 2002. 274-275.