Architecture of Libraries and Factories: Historical Perspectives

This lecture discusses the evolution of library architecture, focusing on significant examples such as the Altes Museum and the Library of Saint Genevieve. The instructor highlights the role of libraries as spaces for reading and exhibition, referencing historical figures like Michelangelo and Henry Labrouste. The lecture transitions to the architecture of factories, examining the rise of capitalism and its impact on industrial design. Key examples include the Ford Motor Company and various textile factories, illustrating how factory design optimized production and labor. The instructor emphasizes the shift from traditional materials to steel and concrete in factory construction, showcasing the influence of architects like Albert Kahn. The lecture concludes with a discussion on the aesthetic and functional aspects of modern factories, including the concept of unobstructed space and the importance of transparency in design.