Dearq

Dearq | eISSN 2215-969X

Ephemeral Transparency: Glass as a Reflective Screen and Opaque Veil in the New National Gallery

No. 21 (2017-07-01)
  • Deniz Balik
https://doi.org/10.18389/dearq21.2017.08

Abstract

This article evaluates the dilemma between intentions and outcomes, based on the transparency debate that has recently resurfaced, by undertaking a critical reading of essential architectural history texts. Using the New National Gallery by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, in Berlin, as the central focus, it argues that, in reality, transparent buildings do not always allow clear vision, free flow, circulation, connection, and accessibility. As a result, the building challenges modern notions by presenting glass as an ephemeral and temporal reflective screen and a condensed opaque veil due to its context and content.

Keywords: transparency, glass, climate, reflection, Mies van der Rohe

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