ABSTRACT
The chapter discusses Jerzy Sołtan’s educational theory and his reading of modern architecture. It discusses his vision of architecture in relation to the idea of synthesis of arts and to the concept of beauty, which he linked first to Le Corbusier’s concepts of ineffable space and Modulor measurement system based on harmonic diagrams and regulating lines, and second to the importance of programme in designing. It explains the difference between architecture and building through the criticism of functionalism as opposed to much broader rationalism in architecture, which included interdisciplinary influences and more poetic and visual content. Within this context, it relates to Team 10’s architectural theory with issues such as systems and participatory architecture. Finally, the chapter concentrates on the core of modernism, “grassroots architecture”, as defined by Sołtan, referring to cubist ideas and references to history of architecture. At the same time, it deeply criticises the International Style as a formalist deviation of modern architecture leading, to the criticism of the whole tendency by postmodern architects. Following Sołtan’s ideas, the chapter concludes with an opening on modern architecture as projected towards the future and a key aspect of building a new culture.
