Christian Norberg Schulz was an architectural visionary who incorporated the ideas of philosophy into architecture with particular reference to the work of Martin Heidigger. He also wrote extensively on architectural history particularly on the Italian baroque period where some buildings feature prominently in his writings. He also experienced a shift in thought from the psychological to the phenomenological which greatly influenced his later architectural theories.
Norberg-Schulz espoused the fact that a building has to blend with the philosophy of its surroundings if it is to succeed aesthetically. This type of thinking is reinforced by modernism and cubism as demonstrated in the works of architects such as Renzo Piano (London’s Shard) and Norman Foster (Berlin Arts Centre) where form takes precedence over surroundings.
Norberg-Schulz’s works are also very much imbued with this architectural philosophy. The design of the Oslo Opera House is a case in point where the uncanny structure seems to blend differently with the sea in the port although one can also feel a sense of vast space. His writings on baroque architecture especially the ones dealing with the Vatican are very much in keeping with tradition and aesthetic style also demonstrating a deep and innate understanding of all that went on in those times. His reference to Bernini as one of the giants of Baroque architecture holds well today especially with his discussion of the Vatican as a hugely towering achievement.
The Norwegian architect brings an innate understanding to the major works of the baroque period which largely remain very relevant today. His architectural studies are thus important for those who wish to continue specializing in the subject.
References:
Baroque Architecture Rizzoli, Milan, 1979
