description Hannes Meyer Overview
Hannes Meyer (1889–1954) was a Swiss architect who served as the second director of the Bauhaus school, succeeding Walter Gropius from 1928 to 1930. Meyer emphasized functionalism and the social purpose of architecture, coining the phrase 'the needs of the people instead of the need for luxury' and reorganizing the Bauhaus curriculum around scientific and technical training. He was dismissed from his position by the Dessau city council in 1930 and succeeded by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
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Who was Hannes Meyer?
Hannes Meyer was a prominent Swiss architect who is best known for serving as the second director of the influential Bauhaus school of design. He took over the position in 1928 after the founder, Walter Gropius, stepped down from the role.
What was Hannes Meyer's architectural philosophy?
Meyer was a staunch advocate for functionalism, famously coining the design principle that form should follow function. He shifted the Bauhaus curriculum heavily toward architecture, mass production, and designing practical solutions for the working class rather than luxury aesthetics.
Why did Hannes Meyer leave the Bauhaus?
Meyer was dismissed from his position as Bauhaus director in 1930 by the mayor of Dessau due to growing political pressure. His overt Marxist political views and the rising tide of conservative opposition in Germany made his position untenable.
What are the most famous buildings designed by Hannes Meyer?
One of his most celebrated architectural projects is the Petershof (also known as the Laubenganghäuser), an apartment block in Dessau, Germany, designed to provide affordable, functional housing. He also collaborated closely with Hans Wittwer on the design of the League of Nations building in Geneva.
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