20th Century Architecture

About the course

Explore the architecture that shaped the modern world, from the clean lines and geometric forms of the Bauhaus, to the expressive, nature-inspired designs of Art Nouveau. 

Whether you want to deepen your understanding of modern architecture, enrich your practice or simply learn more about the buildings and ideas that have transformed our surroundings, this five-week course offers an engaging introduction to the period’s key movements, architects and debates. 

Beginning with the architectural roots of modernism in the late 19th century, we’ll trace the emergence of revolutionary new ideas across Europe and beyond. You’ll explore the artistic influence of Jugendstil and the pioneering work of the Bauhaus, alongside the ground breaking designs of Le Corbusier, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and other leading figures who helped define the International Style. 

Led by Dr John Heintz, an enthusiastic and respected architectural academic, this course will delve into the contrasting approaches to design in the 20^th Century, from simple functional forms to elaborate ornamsent inspired by the natural world. You’ll discover how new materials and construction technologies expanded architectural possibilities, and meet the people behind some of the modern era’s most beloved buildings. 

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of 20^th century architecture and a new understanding of the social, technological and cultural forces that shaped it, and the confidence to recognise the distinctive approaches of its major movements and architects.

• When? Thursday evenings (Thurs 19 Nov – Thurs 17 Dec) to fit easily around a busy workweek 

• Where? Design West on the city’s historic waterfront 

• Who? Taught by architectural academic Dr John Heintz 

• Suitable for? Anyone with an interest in Architecture and Design  

Fees and Information 

Fees 

• Course fee: £125 

Duration 

• Thursday evenings: 6:15pm – 8:00pm 

• 19 Nov – 17 Dec 

Location 

• The Assembly at Design West, 16 Narrow Quay, BS1 4QA 

• The Assembly is on the first floor and is fully accessible via a lift in The Architect. 

Course Materials 

Students to bring with them: 

Note taking materials 

About Design West’s Learning Programme

20th Century Architecture is part of a series of lifelong learning courses at Design West. The programme aims to cover subjects in and around our built environment and other arts and culture subjects. 

If there is a course you would like to see, or teach, then get in touch! 

Email hires@designwest.org.uk and let’s start something new.