Form Follows Feeling: Exploring the Emotional Landscapes of Mexican Architecture

A whimsical title for an insightful exploration, “Form Follows Feeling: Explorations in Mexican Architecture,” edited by the esteemed Dr. Alejandro García-Contreras, invites us to journey beyond the austere lines and measured proportions often associated with architectural discourse. This beautifully curated volume delves into the heart of Mexican design, revealing how emotional resonance plays a crucial role in shaping spaces that transcend mere functionality.

Published in 2018 by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), this impressive tome is not your typical coffee table book filled with glossy photographs and superficial descriptions. Instead, it presents a compelling tapestry of essays, interviews, and case studies penned by renowned architects, historians, and sociologists from Mexico and beyond.

The Architects’ Souls Laid Bare:

One of the most striking aspects of “Form Follows Feeling” is its willingness to peel back the layers of architectural practice, revealing the inner workings of the creative mind. Through insightful conversations with leading figures like Tatiana Bilbao and Alberto Kalach, we gain access to their design philosophies, inspirations, and the emotional journeys that inform their work. Bilbao’s emphasis on social responsibility and her commitment to designing for marginalized communities resonates deeply, while Kalach’s poetic approach to space and light evokes a sense of wonder and contemplation.

Beyond Concrete and Steel:

The book transcends geographical boundaries by exploring the interplay between Mexican architecture and broader cultural currents. For example, the chapter “Colonial Echoes: The Persistence of Tradition in Modern Design” delves into how elements from Mexico’s colonial past continue to influence contemporary architects. We witness the subtle reinterpretation of arches, courtyards, and decorative motifs, seamlessly integrated into modern structures. This juxtaposition of old and new highlights the dynamism of Mexican architecture, its ability to evolve while honoring its roots.

Themes Woven Through Space:

“Form Follows Feeling” is organized thematically, allowing readers to explore specific areas of interest in depth. Some key themes include:

A Visual Feast for the Senses:

Complementing the rich textual content are stunning photographs and architectural drawings. The images showcase the diversity of Mexican architecture, from vernacular structures to cutting-edge contemporary designs. Whether it’s the intricate geometric patterns adorning a colonial church or the sleek lines of a modern museum, each image invites us to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship embedded within these spaces.

A Treasure Trove for Architecture Enthusiasts:

“Form Follows Feeling: Explorations in Mexican Architecture” is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Mexican design. Its insightful essays, captivating interviews, and stunning visuals make it a truly engaging read. This book transcends disciplinary boundaries, inviting readers from diverse backgrounds—architecture students, historians, sociologists, and simply those with a passion for understanding the human experience through built environments—to delve into the emotional landscapes that shape Mexican architecture.

Let’s be honest: who wouldn’t be captivated by a title like “Form Follows Feeling”? It whispers promises of an architectural journey unlike any other, one where logic takes a backseat to emotion, and the spaces we inhabit become reflections of our deepest selves. This book is not merely a collection of facts and figures; it’s a testament to the power of architecture to move us, inspire us, and connect us to something larger than ourselves.