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Walking Tour of the University of Toledo Main Campus - -- International Style

Index

Page 3 of 5

International Style

International Style dates to 1932 when the Museum of Modern Art exhibited the works of modern architects from 15 different countries, all showing similar design elements in their work. The critics dubbed the style "Internationalism" because its features seemed to cross national boundaries. This style was based upon straight planes. While the style is often used in skyscrapers, horizontal space is as important as vertical. Functionalism, simplicity, balance, regularity, and flexibility in planning were also components of this style.

5. Engineering-Science Building

Architects: Bellman, Gillett, and Richards. Date Completed: 1960. Cost: $2 million  

Engineering-Science BuildingEngineering-Science BuildingEngineering-Science Building During ConstructionEngineering-Science Building During Construction

 

 

               

 

 

 

 

 

Designed by the same firm and only one year apart, the Student Union and the Engineering-Science Building differ greatly in style. The Engineering -Science Building is the first UT academic building to completely abandon the Gothic tradition in favor of the International Style. It seems natural that a building dedicated to teaching the newest technology would have a structure of modern design. The Engineering-Science Building reflects America's desire for education to move ahead in the post-Sputnik era, severing ties to history and the Gothic World.

Features to note:

  • Flat roofs have entirely replaced peaked ones.
  • Glass and steel are prominently used on the facade.
  • There is no unnecessary ornamentation.
  • The building is symmetrical in layout.
  • The four front columns are devoid of ornamentation.
  • The Dana Auditorium addition is circular, showing mechanical and geometric influence.
  • Later additions to the building continue the International Style, with flat, sleek surfaces.

 

6. Snyder Memorial

Architects: Richards, Bauer, and Moorhead. Date Completed: 1964. Cost: $1.69 million

Snyder MemorialSnyder Memorial

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the post-Sputnik emphasis on education, it was necessary to educate more teachers. Snyder Memorial, built with an endowment from Walter and Grace Snyder, is home for the College of Education and Allied Professions. It is an excellent example of the 1960s brand of Internationalism.

Features to note:

  • Sleek black glass and steel are the prominent building materials.
  • The top portion of the building is larger than the base. This is another common element of Internationalism, showing that modern structural design could allow a heavy top to be supported by a smaller base.
  • Flat roofs.
  • The vertical planes are emphasized over the horizontal, following the skyscraper model.

 

Other Buildings of the International Style

Dowd-Nash-White Quadrangle

Dowd-Nash-White QuadrangleDowd-Nash-White Quadrangle

 

 

 

 

 

 

Health Education Center

Architects: Britsch, Macelwane, Poseler and Lubeck. Date Completed: 1969. Cost: $1.6 million

 

Parks Tower

Architects: Schauder and Martin. Date Completed: 1971.Cost: $7.1 million

Parks TowerParks Tower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Student Union (1972 addition)

Architects: Richards, Bauer, and Moorhead. Date Completed: 1972. Cost: $3.6 million