ARCHITECTURE USA 1980
Further images
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 1
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 2
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 3
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 4
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 5
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 6
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 7
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 8
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 9
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 10
)
Mr. Pei’s addition to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, known as the East Building,
is made from massive blocks of Tennessee marble arranged around a triangular courtyard.
It was a rare example of a modernist structure that appeared so permanent and well crafted
that even lovers of traditional architecture were smitten.
Credit...Carol M. Highsmith/Buyenlarge
National Gallery of Art East Building, Washington DC, USA, 1978
I.M.Pei divided the trapezoidal site into two and design designed triangular buildings
joined by a central atrium.
In plan, section, and elevation, the interlocking volumes merge inseparably in a spatial dialogue
of rigorous geometry, technical innovation, and exacting craftsmanship.
Three flexible towers are organized around a light-filled central atrium,
providing space for exhibitions of different scales.