Essay, concept - Simplicity

2020-04-27

From a design point of view, simplicity is simple and clear in form. Minimalism, which seeks simplicity in the art or architecture world, tells the story of minimizing artistic techniques or adaptations to express something close to the essence. It is not a wrong story. Because there is indeed an aspect of that. However, we think there is a distortion in the motive. For now, minimalism is more likely an intuitive idea about survival.

low-cost refugee houses


The most minimal houses are built in the post-war or devastated land that has suffered natural disasters. They built most efficiently and economically to secure immediate safety and escape the climate. It is because it has to be done in terms of time and cost. Except for the currently developing countries, most countries are already overloaded. In short, the economy is unprecedentedly difficult. In many sectors, supply has long exceeded demand. What comes to mind at this time is the economy.

Economical carries much meaning. The word "economic" used to mean "just right," but now it is used to mean "cheap." In this era, cheap is correct. The fact that all concepts are as cheap as relative is also relative and that there is no cheapness in scientific concepts that encompasses all objects. However, the economic thing we believe works with the rationality. It does not just end with a "feeling this is all right." We believe the things that benefit us from a macro perspective are reasonable. Benefits from a micro perspective often harmful in the longer-term.

St. Peter's Basilica in Rome


Back to the start, minimalism in design is, after all, "economization without one's depreciation." Like this, minimalism becomes visually simple, taking away the decorations. Furthermore, we see the essence of the exclusion of decoration. We have no choice but to pursue the essence because what we have left is the essence, not that we eagerly pursue the essence.

Because the essence is all we can have, for humans, decorations cost astronomical amounts of money. With the construction of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome suffers from several economic crises. If we look at the scale, decoration, and arch-shaped roof of the cathedral with its colorful Saint Peter, we are overwhelmed by its grandeur and splendor. At this time, if we do not have enough money, we do not get rid of unnecessary things, but leave things that should be. It will take away all the decorations. Moreover, naturally, the scale is reduced. Excluding the decoration is because it is as empty as a large house that is empty without any furniture.

Ando Tadao, The church of light