Deutscher Werkbund Movement

The Deutscher Werkbund Movement began in Munich, Germany and then later developed in Vienna, Austria and Berlin, Germany. It was similar to the Arts and Crafts Movement in the sense of protesting against artistic establishment. However, they did use machines during this time. There was a lot of collaboration between the designer and product manufacturer during the design process in order to increase the quality of the design outcome.

The Vienna Secession was an important part of this period. This was when artists, sculptors and architects all protested against historicism. They were housed in the Secession Building built by Joseph Olbrich. The building was very simple but the gold accents made it unique.

One of the participants of the Secession was Otto Wagner. He was a man from Austria and taught at the Vienna Academy. He designed furniture that reflected his style and architecture.

This is one of the chairs he designed. It has metal braces and usually aluminum or brass shoes. It is very sophisticated and defined.

Josef Hoffmann was also a participant in the Vienna Secession. He was an architect and designer that designed furniture, textiles and glass work.

This is the Morris chair designed by Josef Hoffmann. They usually have a laquered back and a light caned seat.

Current Applications:

This is a link to a video about Otto Wagner and his work. It is a little lengthy but gives some good insight to what his designs were like. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EF2IPZC2sio

Responses:

I looked at Allison's blog and I liked how she put a lot of focus on the chairs during this period. It helped me understand how each one was different and the characteristics of each. Also, she did a good job at explaining the history of the movement.

I also looked at Ali's blog and her pictures of the current applications were just amazing. I love that style and would definitely have my house designed like that. Her explanation of the Secession building was also very informational and helpful!