Truth to Materials in Modern Architecture
like a painting, a sculpture, a particularly stunning piece of furniture or even a viewplane that serves to complement and set off a design envelope."
In this regard, Chung adheres to a second fundamental principle of modern architecture, "truth to materials," meaning that the true nature or natural appearance of the material should be seen rather than concealed or altered to represent something else.
In using natural materials such as objets d'art within the context of modern design settings, Chung often places wood on vertical surfaces, where they are more likely to attract eyeballs. He recognizes grain as an essential consideration when choosing a particular type of wood, marble, sandstone or other natural material.
"If it is a material with a strong grain that is likely to pop, I will use it sparingly," he says. "If it is a more quiet grain, I might use more of it."
Chung often pairs materials that have contrasting hues, textures and grains. Such unusual pairings evoke nature and add qualities that depart from direct functionality, such as mood, atmosphere, intensity of life and even natural characteristics, he believes.
In one residential application Chung paired a rich, glossy walnut wood with wenge (Millettia laurentii). Wenge is notable for its extremely dark brown color, distinctive black streaks and figures, and its low luster. He then added creamy beige travertine on the floors and walls to create a bold, striking contrast in the masculine-themed room.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'truth to materials' mean in modern architecture?+
It is a fundamental principle meaning that the true nature or natural appearance of a material should be seen rather than concealed or altered to represent something else.
Why does Chung place wood on vertical surfaces in modern design?+
Chung places wood on vertical surfaces because they are more likely to attract eyeballs, allowing natural materials to function as objets d'art within modern design settings.
How should wood grain influence material selection in interior design?+
Grain is an essential consideration when choosing wood or other natural materials. Materials with strong grain that is likely to pop should be used sparingly, while materials with quieter grain can be used more generously.
Why pair materials with contrasting hues, textures and grains?+
Unusual pairings of contrasting materials evoke nature and add qualities beyond direct functionality, such as mood, atmosphere, intensity of life and natural characteristics.
What are the characteristics of wenge wood (Millettia laurentii)?+
Wenge is notable for its extremely dark brown color, distinctive black streaks and figures, and its low luster.
What materials did Chung combine in a masculine-themed residential room?+
Chung paired rich, glossy walnut with wenge, then added creamy beige travertine on the floors and walls to create a bold, striking contrast.