Warning. Warning. Mop and bucket to poor seats of all architecture nerds!

If looking at these images leaves you somewhat confused, don’t worry – you are not alone. Inspired by Mies van der Rohe’s highly acclaimed Farnsworth House, this installation by Bik Van der Pol – a house with hundreds of butterflies – was chosen to inaugurate the new wing of the MACRO museum in Rome.

Conceived as a project which brings awareness to the current environmental issues, a house with hundreds of butterflies addresses the issues of increasing urbanization and climate change. The scientist consider butterflies as ‘indicator species’ due to their particular sensitivity toward environmental degradation. Recent decline of butterflies serves as an ‘early warning’ of current environmental conditions.

So what has Farnsworth House got to do with all this? It kind of actually does, in an arty-tangent-sorta way… Built in 1951, Farnsworth House emphasized the tight relationship between man and nature. “We should attempt to bring nature, houses, and the human being to a higher unity”, said Mies. This house is considered to be one of the most radically minimalist houses ever designed, with glass walls and open interior space which create a sense of intense connection with the outside (otherwise known as major architecture wank-phrase “Bringing the outside in”. Seriously – everyone stop saying that! *Spew!*)

This exhibition is on until 13th February. When in Rome…

 


[Images via SpaceInvading via designws.com]



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With a disarming blend of authority and approachability, Dana is a former refugee-turned-global design visionary. Through her multi-faceted work as a creative director, keynote speaker, editor, curator, interior designer and digital publisher, Dana empowers others to appreciate and engage with design in transformative ways, making the sometimes intimidating world of design accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the subject. Dana's been catapulted to the status of a stalwart global influencer, with recognition from industry heavyweights such as AD Germany, Vogue Living, Elle Décor Italia and Danish RUM Interiør Design, who have named as one of the Top True Global Influencers of the Design World and counted her among the most visionary female creatives on the planet. Her TEDx talk—"Design Can Change the Way You See the World"— will challenge and transform your understanding of design's omnipresent and profound influence. Through her vast experience in interiors, architecture and design, Dana challenges the prevailing rapid image culture, highlighting the importance of originality, sustainability, connecting with your values and learning to "see" design beyond the aesthetic.

2 Responses

  1. Peter Baldwin

    Wow that’s one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. And yes, ‘bringing the outside in’ is right up there with giving interiors a ‘bespoke feel’.

    Reply
  2. Oliver @ Sabi Style

    So not one to send the good people of the Lepidopterophobia Society when they next visit Rome…

    Its is however very cool and totally looks like an hommage to Farnsworth House.

    Can i add: “recontextualise” to the list
    “Bespoke feel”
    “Bringing the outside in”

    Reply

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