HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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NAME ROCHELLE MAE S. EQUIPADO YEAR AND SECTION: 2A

ROCOCO ARCHITECTURE

Geographical Location

Rococo architecture, originating in early 18th-century Paris and later adopted in France, Germany, and Austria, is
characterized by its lightness, elegance, and exuberant use of curvaceous, natural forms in ornamentation.
Decorative elements featured delicate interlacings of "C" and "S" shapes, as well as shell motifs. Asymmetrical
designs were prevalent, with pastels, ivory white, and gold as dominant colors. This architectural style spread to
various European regions, including northern Italy, Central Europe, and Russia. It reached its peak in southern
Germany and Austria from the 1730s to the 1770s, remaining a significant part of their cultural landscape. Rococo
also found its way into Genoa, Sardinia, Sicily, and Venice, where it adapted to regional variations. In some cases, it
blended French elegance with southern German and Baroque influences, particularly in religious architecture. In
summary, Rococo architecture, originating in 18th-century France, had a widespread influence, notably in Germany
and Austria, while adapting to regional characteristics.

Geological Conditions

Rococo architecture, originating in 18th-century Paris and spreading across France and Europe, is known for its
ornate, flamboyant, and intricately detailed design. This style emphasizes lightness, elegance, and the abundant use
of natural forms in ornamentation, featuring delicate interlacings of "C" and "S" shapes, shell motifs, and
asymmetrical designs. Light pastels, ivory white, and gold are dominant colors. Rococo buildings often have simple
exteriors, with interiors completely dominated by ornamentation, aiming to make a strong initial impression. In
churches, complex floor plans with interlocking ovals and grand stairways are common, offering various viewpoints
of the decoration. Rococo architecture spread to various European regions, including northern Italy, Austria,
HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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southern Germany, Central Europe, and Russia. In summary, Rococo architecture is a highly decorative style,
characterized by its intricate detailing, lightness, and theatrical design, focusing on impressing and awe-inspiring
upon first sight, with interiors richly adorned.

Climate

In the early 18th century, Paris had a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average
annual temperature was around 12°C, with July temperatures reaching about 19°C, and January temperatures
dropping to about 5°C. Unfortunately, this period was marred by natural catastrophes, such as bad harvests, famine,
and severe winters. For example, in 1708-1709, a harsh winter with temperatures below -20°C caused the Seine
River to freeze from January to April, making grain deliveries impossible. The second half of the 18th century saw
climate fluctuations in France, leading to crop failures, livestock losses, and widespread hunger. Overall, while the
climate in Paris was temperate, the era was marked by hardships due to natural disasters.

Religion

Rococo architecture, originating in 18th-century Europe, notably in France, is a secular style characterized by
elaborate decoration, asymmetry, and a playful design approach. It was commonly employed in palaces and
aristocratic residences, reflecting the preferences of the upper classes. While religion did influence art and culture
during this period, Rococo architecture itself is not linked to any specific religious tradition.

Social and Political

The Rococo period, emerging in the 18th century, was intricately linked to the social and political climate of the
time, marked by stability in Europe. Rococo architecture, a visual representation of the European aristocracy's tastes,
featured opulence with intricate ornamentation, asymmetry, and playful design elements. This opulence reflected the
privileged class's desire for luxury. Rococo's whimsical designs offered an escape from previous formal styles. It
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mirrors the cultural, social, and political dynamics that influenced 18th-century Europe.

Historical

Rococo architecture, flourishing in the 18th century, drew from historical architectural influences, primarily
Baroque architecture known for opulence and intricate ornamentation. Elements of Rococo design were influenced
by the Italian Renaissance, emphasizing proportion and classical motifs, resulting in graceful and harmonious
proportions in Rococo buildings. By combining these influences, Rococo architecture became a distinct style with
whimsical, ornate, and often asymmetrical designs, reflecting 18th-century European tastes and values.

Architectural Character

Rococo architecture is known for its ornate, whimsical design featuring asymmetry, curved lines, and delicate
ornamentation. It employs intricate stucco work, plaster moldings, and carved wood, often with natural motifs like
shells and flowers. Interiors have light pastel colors, creating an airy and intimate atmosphere. Rococo designs
prioritize creating cozy spaces, in contrast to earlier monumental structures. This style exudes elegance and grace,
reflecting the refined tastes of the European aristocracy in the 18th century.

Example of Buildings
HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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1. Catherine Palace (St. Petersburg, Russia): Catherine Palace is an exquisite example of Rococo
architecture, known for its magnificent blue and white facade adorned with gold accents. The palace's
opulent interior, including the stunning Amber Room, features lavish stucco work, gilded moldings,
and intricate decorations, showcasing the grandeur of the Russian imperial court.
HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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2. Queluz National Palace (Quelez, Portugal): Queluz National Palace is a Rococo gem in Portugal,
characterized by its graceful pastel-colored facade and beautifully landscaped gardens. The interiors
of the palace are renowned for their charming, light-hearted decor, capturing the essence of 18th-
HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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century European aristocratic living.
HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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3. Linderhof Palace (Ettal, Bavaria, Germany): Linderhof Palace, nestled in the Bavarian Alps,
epitomizes the opulence of Rococo design. The palace boasts an ornate facade and interiors rich in
gilded details, chandeliers, and delicate stucco work. It's a testament to the eccentricity and luxurious
taste of King Ludwig II of Bavaria.

a. Plan

Rococo architecture breaks away from the strict symmetry of earlier styles, favoring fluid and asymmetrical floor
plans. Rooms seamlessly connect, encouraging social interaction and intimacy. A central axis guides movement but
with a more organic and meandering quality, creating dynamic and socially-oriented spaces.

b. Walls

Rococo architecture stands out in its treatment of walls with lavish ornamentation, including intricate stucco work,
plaster moldings, and carved wood. Delicate and whimsical motifs like scrolls, shells, flowers, and foliage bring
playfulness and fantasy to the decor. The use of curved forms and strategically placed mirrors adds movement and
light, making the walls dynamic and visually captivating, distinguishing Rococo from earlier architectural styles.

c. Openings

Rococo architecture departs from traditional openings by favoring rounded, arched forms that lend grace and fluidity
to spaces. It emphasizes maximizing natural light through larger, delicately adorned windows that create an airy
atmosphere. The strategic placement of openings enhances flow and picturesque views, while mirrored surfaces
amplify light and the sense of space. These design choices depart from earlier, more formal arrangements and
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contribute to the unique charm of Rococo architecture.

d. Roofs

Rococo architecture distinguishes itself in roof treatment by favoring Mansard roofs, offering additional attic space
for comfort and visual appeal. These roofs are often adorned with decorative elements like dormers and balustrades,
enhancing the overall whimsical character. The use of curves in roof design adds grace and movement, departing
from earlier rigid profiles. Additionally, Rococo may incorporate pavilions or cupolas with domed or bell-shaped
roofs, contributing to its playful and fanciful aesthetic. Overall, Rococo architecture's roof design is a unique and
visually captivating feature of the style..

e. Columns

Rococo architecture breaks from classical column conventions, favoring slender and ornate columns with delicate
motifs like scrolls and shells. It often includes pilasters for both aesthetics and structure, providing rhythm and
verticality. Rococo columns are integrated into the overall decorative scheme, often painted, gilded, or adorned with
stucco work, allowing for a more imaginative approach that aligns with the style's whimsical nature. This sets
Rococo apart with its unique column design.

f. Moldings

Rococo architecture departs from earlier styles in its approach to moldings, favoring ornate, flowing designs
inspired by nature. These moldings are whimsical and playful, in contrast to earlier formal styles. They often have a
three-dimensional quality, adding depth and texture and enhancing the interplay of light and shadow. Rococo
moldings are part of a larger decorative scheme that creates a sense of unity and coherence in interior spaces.
Overall, Rococo moldings are characterized by their elaborate, nature-inspired motifs, depth, and integration into the
overall decorative scheme, contributing to the extravagant and fanciful Rococo aesthetic.
HOA 212: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 2

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g. Ornaments

Rococo architecture is known for its ornate and intricate ornamentation, often drawing inspiration from nature.
These delicate and whimsical motifs, like shells and flowers, are meticulously applied to surfaces, creating a rich
visual tapestry. In contrast to earlier austere styles, Rococo's ornaments reflect playfulness and fantasy. A variety of
materials, including stucco, wood, plaster, and metalwork, are used, enhancing the design's sumptuousness. The
ornaments guide the eye, create focal points, and integrate mirrors for added luminosity, contributing to the dynamic
and extravagant spirit of Rococo architecture.