Event 1: A. Quincy Jones- Building for a Better Living at the Hammer Museum

I was fortunate enough to attend the A. Quincy Jones exhibit concerning architecture for modern, better living at the Hammer museum.  Something that I found particularly interesting about A. Quincy Jones is that he not only designed several homes in Los Angeles for the growing middle class, but he also designed office buildings, churches, schools, as well as libraries.

Outside of the exhibit at the Hammer Museum

            The things differentiate A. Quincy Jones from other architects is his ability to interact with several designers and to build from “the inside out”. He is inspired by nature, and tries to incorporate this into his projects. To me, it is clear that his homes and building have a signature modern look, yet Jones strives to achieve this look while still maintaining a green, efficient design. He achieved this by utilizing lightweight materials and positioning the buildings in line with the natural surrounding terrain. This allowed for access to light, ventilation, air, and views.

The museum provided me with this brochure depicting some of Jones' designs. Jones is additionally recognized for his intricate detailed drawings of house plans. He definitely was not one for simple blueprints!

            I would recommend this exhibit to anyone who is interested in seeing architecture in a new light. I believe that we often think “green homes” sacrifice open, light-filled layouts. A. Quincy Jones contradicts this assumption, and what I enjoy most it that A. Quincy Jones breaks the typical “architect” stereotype in that he tries to maintain the surrounding terrain in it’s natural state as much as possible. In fact, the surrounding terrain is often incorporated into his design, combining modern living with nature. In my opinion, A. Quincy Jones certainly pointed architecture in a new direction of modern, green living.

The museum did not allow me to take pictures of things within the exhibit itself, so I've included other images of Quincy's work:

An office space designed by A. Quincy Jones. He wanted a sense of nature and relaxation even in a business setting!
<http://museumpublicity.com/2013/07/21/hammer-museum-presents-a-quincy-jones-building-for-better-living/>

 

A home designed by A. Quincy Jones. Notice the incorporation of nature in his desgn.
<http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/la-times-home-garden-roundup-0-12-76667>

            In context with the course, it is evident that mathematics is needed to achieve Jones’ modern design. Yet, it is clear that he incorporates the use of his mathematical architecture around the artistic natural landscape surrounding it.

Myself and a staff member at the Quincy Jones exhibit.