At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, the so called ‘fin de siecle’ period, many architects in Europe, Russia and the USA developed their own styles within the Art Nouveau movement. The expanding railway network would have enabled them to travel and see other architect’s work. It is presumed that there was contact between individuals as there is a lot of common ground. The use of botanical lines and variations on the ‘whiplash’ are much repeated. Cutting edge engineering was used to create delicate structures previously not possible.
The architects involved thought of themselves not just as architects but more designers of full project. Victor Horta and Josef Hoffmann, in particular, insisted on being involved at every level of the build, furniture, decoration……..everything. Hoffmann famously insisted on designing the clothes and slippers for the owners to wear when in their house the Palais Stoclet!
As well as the grand mansions of the very wealthy the architects catered for the growing numbers of the middle class who wanted something up to date in the growing suburbs of Europe and elsewhere.
Those interested in Art Nouveau Architecture might like to look at the work of the following. This will, undoubtedly, lead onto the discovery of the work of many others, less well known.
The Others in no particular order include.
Blue links have more information.
Antonín Balšánek and Osvald Polívka Czechoslovakia
LLuiss Domenech I Montaner Spain
Joseph Maria Olbrich Austria
Charles Rennie Mackintosh Scotland
Lev Nikolayevich Kekushev Russia
Franz Schechtel (aka Fyodor Osipovich Schechtel) Russia
There are many Others….!
Art Nouveau Architecture edited by Frank Russell covers a lot of ground. Click the link below to find sources.