erik gunnar asplund tribute day

Since I'm so down on modern architecture most of the time I thought it would be good to start discussing some examples of good and timeless design. Since it's a Sunday, its appropriate to feature the Woodland Chapel, which exemplifies the best of both classical and modern design. It is a transcendent work of art and space, and it is so modest and unpretentious that the more profound aspects of its design don't immediately reveal themselves. From the outside, it is a geometrically clever pastiche of two ancient building forms--a pyramid sits on top of a four column front Greek temple. Inside the building there is a small Pantheon.

The two major plan spaces are golden section rectangles, more or less. The structure of the building appears to be mostly wood, in keeping with the location and craft traditions of the region.

It is architecturally pure and unambiguous in its character and purpose. Whether used as a space for ceremony or individual contemplation it stands out as one of the most successful buildings of the 20th century.