Etienne-Louis Boullee

• Etienne-Louis Boullee was a visionary

French neoclassical architect whose
work greatly influenced contemporary
architects.
• Developing a distinctive abstract
geometric style inspired by classical
forms.
• His work was characterized by the
removal of all unnecessary
ornamentation, inflating geometric
forms and repeating elements such as
columns in huge ranges.
 IDEAS FOLLOWED
• Boullée promoted the idea of making
architecture expressive of its purpose, and
frequently employed symbolism.
• He emphasized the properties of geometric
forms and their effect on the psychology of
the viewer.
• He made a dramatic use of light and shadow
to heighten the effect of geometric forms, and
brought out the potential of mystery in
building.
• His focus on polarity (offsetting opposite
design elements) and the use of light and
shadow was highly innovative, and continues
to influence architects to this day.
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NEWTON
• Basically the building is a large sphere and
represents both the land and Newton’s
discoveries.
• Its access can be gained through the base
• Its surface is skillfully perforated so that sunlight
can enter during the day can create the picture of
the night sky.
• At night a great source of artificial light in the
centre portrays the daytime image.
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