The architecture of Hans Hollein: Buildings and projects, 1954-1994. (Volumes I-III).

Abstract

Hans Hollein, the 1985 Pritzker Prize Laureate in Architecture, was chosen for this dissertation. The study fills a void in the knowledge base concerning the Viennese architect's work which is dramatically different from his contemporaries. The first of three objectives of the dissertation is to analyze Hollein's highly idiosyncratic architecture in terms of how and why he does what he does and to discern the meaning embodied in his built forms. By way of historical analysis using a chronological sequence, the complex character of his designs is examined. This investigation enumerates the experiences, events, and personalities which have influenced Hollein's development and suggests parallels and contrasts within the context of other contemporary works. The architect's designs are posed against a background which reflects the changing state of contemporary architecture, including the genesis of Post-Modernism. Within this frame of reference, exemplars of the architect's buildings are described and interpreted. The second objective of the dissertation is to document Hans Hollein's oeuvre (all of his architecture and interior architecture) in the form of a Catalogue including individual descriptions and visuals. The third dissertation objective is to create from international sources an annotated compilation of print and non-print resources both by and about Hans Hollein. The research for the dissertation involved five methods: (1) review of primary and secondary published sources, (2) personal interviews with Hans Hollein, (3) interviews with selected clients and Studio Hollein staff, (4) observation by the researcher of Hollein in his studio working environment, and (5) first-h and study of Hollein's completed buildings. The architecture of Hans Hollein is a multi-faceted expression which underscores his "alles ist architektur" (everything is architecture) philosophy. His hallmarks are invention and innovation. He believes that architecture must satisfy both the physical and psychological needs of people. His designs offer dramatic contrasts, purposely conceived ambiguity, and complexity that produces a mosaic of forms and meanings. Hollein's body of works to date exhibit an unusually high degree of craftsmanship, unique applications of materials, a respect for context, and an obvious relationship to fine art. "Holleinesque" architecture defies strict classification or categorization.