About Buildings + Cities 87 — Carlo Scarpa — 1/4 — Not Every Architect is an Artist
Sep 15, 2021
The hosts discuss the enigmatic architecture of Carlo Scarpa and his unique urban condition. They explore his distinct style, criticisms, and influence on aspiring architects. They also delve into Scarpa's early career, design philosophy, and his use of materials in visually striking buildings. The discussion includes his obsession with light in designing unique galleries and museums, as well as the elements of the classic Scarper exhibition space.
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Cycling Trip Finds Scarpa Knockoff
- Luke and George recall sheltering from rain outside a shop copying Scarpa's office detail in Verona during a cycling trip.
- The shop reproduced Scarpa's characteristic architrave in cheap pine, showing how his style gets copied locally.
Architecture As Intensified Detail
- Carlo Scarpa concentrated intense attention on tiny architectural moments and details rather than large urban programmes.
- His work feels like amplified 'buildinginess' where doors, windows and skirting boards become theatrical objects.
Designing At Human Scale
- Scarpa forces designers to work at human scales, focusing on elements no smaller than the hand.
- His mastery of drawing and process taught generations to consider fine-grain design decisions seriously.