Étienne-Louis Boullée

Architect known for neoclassical designs

Étienne-Louis Boullée - Architect known for neoclassical designs
Born

February 12th, 1728
297 years ago

Died

February 4th, 1799
226 years ago — 70 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

An influential French architect and educator, a key figure in the evolution of neoclassicism during the 18th century. Boullée proposed grand architectural concepts characterized by monumental simplicity and clarity of form. His designs often included vast interiors and symbolic architecture, meant to evoke strong emotions. Although many of his projects remained unbuilt, they significantly influenced architectural theory and practice. Boullée's work centered on the idea of architecture as a form of art rather than merely a functional craft. His writings, particularly 'Architecture, essai sur l'art', conveyed his vision of a new aesthetic in architecture that combined beauty and proportion. Several of his most notable projects included the Cenotaph for Isaac Newton, which exemplified his innovative approach to space and light.

Proposed the Cenotaph for Isaac Newton

Contributed to neoclassical architectural theory

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