The Influence of Rococo on architecture may not be overly dominant, but it still provides a refreshing new perspective in the world of architecture. In fact, it’s somewhat challenging to distinguish between Baroque and Rococo architecture. However, upon closer inspection, Rococo-designed architecture appears more relaxed, light, and graceful. Just like the metal and porcelain ornaments coveted by socialites of the time, Rococo-era furniture also became a symbol of social status eagerly pursued.
Furniture and architecture styles in the hands of Rococo underwent significant changes, especially with the addition of comfort and flexibility as their main features. In earlier times, residents of a house had to adhere to strict classical architectural rules that dictated the identity and rigid function of each room in a house. Instead of prioritizing the comfort and needs of the occupants, classical rules often forced inhabitants to adapt to pre-existing spaces.
These classical rules also made room-supporting elements rigid. In this context, furniture tended to emphasize the strength and sturdiness of its construction rather than its comfort. It was this rigidity that Rococo challenged and transformed. Furniture became highly flexible, easily movable, and could be composed with other elements according to the owner’s desires. Additionally, furniture was required to stand on its own, unlike in previous eras where furniture construction relied on the walls of the house or room for support.
One revolutionary piece of furniture born during the Rococo era is the Fauteuil Chair. To achieve ergonomic comfort, Rococo-era furniture underwent various modifications in design and form. During this period, several specialized chair types emerged, such as the Fateuil Chair, Voyeuse, and Berger en Gondola. Some of these chair types have remained popular even to this day, including Cushioned Detached Arms, Lengthening of the Cushioned Back (Hammerhead), and Loose Seat Cushion.
Although Rococo primarily influenced personal spaces, it did make its mark in architecture. The artistic color influence of Rococo on architectural styles may not be dominant, but it still provides a fresh perspective. At first glance, it can be challenging to distinguish between Baroque and Rococo architectural styles. However, a deeper examination reveals that Rococo-designed architecture appears more relaxed, light, and graceful. Meanwhile, the ornamental design forms present in Baroque are also seen in Rococo design. The significant difference lies in the design of decorative elements, with Baroque favoring symmetrical forms while Rococo is dominated by asymmetrical ones.
Furthermore, Rococo made valuable contributions to the world of architecture. In this regard, Rococo style brought about significant changes, especially in the functionality of spaces within buildings. This style emphasized the importance of private and personal spaces within a building. This is in contrast to the Baroque style, which tended to favor spacious and large rooms over partitioning spaces to create a sense of privacy.
Source:
- “Rococo style (design) – Britannica Online Encyclopedia”. Britannica.com. Retrieved 24 April 2012.
- Rococo – Rococo Art. Huntfor.com. Retrieved on 2011-05-29.
- “A Brief History of Rococo Art | artnet News”. artnet News. 2013-07-15. Retrieved 2017-06-23.
- Rococo Architecture. Artsz.org (2008-02-21). Retrieved on 2011-05-29.
- Rococo Architecture – History of Rococo Architecture – Definition of Rococo Architecture. Architecture.about.com. Retrieved on 2011-05-29.www.wikipedia.org
