video record
Media not available in the Digital Archive
Description
Despite the achievements of the modern movement, the majority of between the wars architecture remained traditional. Sut there were degrees of tradition. Here Dr. Geoffrey Baker examines the class...ical tradition represented by such buildings as Manchester City Library and Liverpool Cathedral, the less traditional Scandinavian municipal style - and demonstrates the contrast between these and the modern buildings which were appearing. The programme culminates in a detailed study of the conservative modernism epitomised by the Royal Institute of British Architects building built by Grey Wornum in London and opened in 1934s a- symbol of the restrained excellence appreciated by the profession.
Metadata describing this Open University video programme
Module code and title: A305, History of architecture and design 1890-1939
Item code: A305; 21
First transmission date: 20-09-1975
Published: 1975
Rights Statement:
Restrictions on use:
Duration: 00:24:30
+ Show more...
Producer: Miriam Rapp
Contributor: Geoffrey Baker
Publisher: BBC Open University
Keyword(s): Liverpool Cathedral; Manchester City Library; RIBA building; Wornum
Subject terms: Architecture; Architecture, modern; Royal Institute of British Architects--Building, structures, etc
Footage description: Quote from Giles Scott, attacking certain aspects of the modern movement. Similar quote from T. Hughes calling for a more traditional British style of architecture Baker looks at some of the problems, such as variety of styles, the continued influence of classicism etc. Stills of various 1930s buildings including Manchester City Library. The importance of Beaux Arts ideals is stressed through the influence of the Rome Scholarship. Baker mentions some pros and cons for Beaux Arts architecture. The influential position of Charles Reilly is outlined. Various quotes, with relevant still are given from Reilly's 1931 book on British architecture. The first two are A. J. Davis and W. Curtis Green. Lutyen's Viceroy's palace in New Delhi is shown, followed by numerous stills of Liverpool Cathedral. Baker outlines the monumentality of such designs. He also looks at the continuing traditional country house designs, again to show how little the modern movement had caught on. Baker also mentions the middle path, influenced by certain buildings in Scandinavia and the Netherlands. The competition for the new RIBA headquarters in 1932 is described. Baker analyses and criticises the designs which were placed second and third, by Rees and Thomas. Plans of their designs are shown. The winning design by Grey Wornum is looked at in detail. Baker describes the exterior first, including the sculptures on the facade and the main entrance doors. This leads on to the entrance hall and stairs. Numerous stills accompany his description of this accepted style. The interior is analysed in detail - the central stairs, the main halls, decorative panels, the library and council chamber. More stills and quotes from contemporary reviews, especially Charles Reilly. Baker sums up by quoting reactions from professional journals, including two perceptive critical reviews.
Master spool number: 6HT/71668
Production number: 00525_3171
Videofinder number: 1765
Available to public: no