Group 32 (Groep 32) was a Dutch group of architects from the 1930s that arose as a breakaway from the functionalist associations De 8 and Opbouw. The group felt that functionalism had gone too far and wanted more room for form, baroque and classical elements.
Background
In the 1920s and 1930s, functionalism (the New Building movement) dominated modern Dutch architecture: plain, businesslike and without superfluous ornament. A number of architects, including Arthur Staal, found this approach too dogmatic and too bare. They founded Group 32 to let the past have a voice in design again.
Characteristics
The architecture associated with Group 32 differs from strict functionalism through:
- Curved lines and walls — flowing forms instead of rigid rectangles
- Baroque and classical influences — attention to plasticity and detail
- Reconciliation with the past — historical forms were allowed again
- Expressive facades — sometimes given classical or seventeenth-century elements
A well-known architect of this direction is Sybold van Ravesteyn, whose work is marked by playful, curved forms. The group forms an interesting counter-movement within Dutch modernism.
Related Terms
- Functionalism
- Modernism
- New Building movement
- Amsterdam School
- Building style
More guides and plans available at fredsdiyplans.com