Eero Saarinen

Eero Saarinen

Eero Saarinen (August 20, 1910 – September 1, 1961) was a Finnish-American architect and industrial designer noted for his neo-futuristic style. He is best known for designing the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, and the TWA Flight Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Early Life and Education

Eero Saarinen was born in Kirkkonummi, Finland, to the renowned architect Eliel Saarinen and sculptor Loja Saarinen. In 1923, the Saarinen family emigrated to the United States, where Eliel became a professor at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Eero grew up in an artistic environment and was exposed to design and architecture from a young age. He studied sculpture at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris, France, and later attended the Yale School of Architecture, graduating in 1934.

Career

After completing his studies, Saarinen worked in his father's architectural practice, Saarinen, Swansen and Associates. He gained recognition in 1940 when he and his father won first prize in the "Organic Design in Home Furnishings" competition organized by the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

Notable Works

Saarinen's architectural style evolved over time, and he became known for his innovative use of materials and sculptural forms. Some of his most notable works include:

• Gateway Arch: Located in St. Louis, Missouri, the Gateway Arch is a 630-foot monument that serves as a symbol of westward expansion in the United States. Completed in 1965, it is the tallest arch in the world.

• TWA Flight Center: Designed for Trans World Airlines at John F. Kennedy International Airport, this terminal is celebrated for its futuristic design and innovative use of space. It opened in 1962 and is now part of the TWA Hotel.

• Dulles International Airport: Saarinen designed the main terminal of this airport in Washington, D.C., which opened in 1962. The terminal is known for its sweeping roof and spacious interior.

• Kresge Auditorium: Located at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, this auditorium is noted for its unique dome shape and was completed in 1955.

Design Philosophy

Saarinen's work is characterized by its attention to form and function, as well as its embrace of new technologies and materials. He believed in creating buildings that were both aesthetically pleasing and practical, often pushing the boundaries of traditional architectural design.

Legacy

Eero Saarinen's contributions to architecture have had a lasting impact on the field. His work continues to be studied and admired for its innovative approach and artistic expression. Saarinen's designs have influenced generations of architects and designers, and his buildings remain iconic landmarks.

Personal Life

Saarinen was married twice, first to sculptor Lilian Swann Saarinen, with whom he had two children, and later to writer Aline Bernstein Saarinen. He passed away on September 1, 1961, at the age of 51, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking architectural achievements.

References

• "Eero Saarinen: Shaping the Future," by Eeva-Liisa Pelkonen and Donald Albrecht.
• "Eero Saarinen on His Work," by Aline B. Saarinen.

External Links

• Architectural Digest: Eero Saarinen
• Museum of Modern Art: Eero Saarinen