Author(s): Aurora Cuito

Architecture

Charles Rennie Mackintosh (Glasgow 1868-Londres 1928), Scottish architect and designer, had a great influence on twentieth century architecture and decoration. He graduated from the Glasgow School of Art but soon abandoned the affected Victorian style to embrace one based on simplicity and geometrical shapes. The project for the Glasgow School of Art (1897-1899) established his reputation. This rationalist building juxtaposes long, delicate curves against its rectangular structure; it was extended by adding a library (1907-1909). Mackintosh is also famous for his interior design and furniture creations, which combined traditional Scottish elements with the subtlety of the Art Nouveau movement. His influence can be seen on the designers of the Secession of Vienna, and on the development of the Modern Movement. Despite his success he virtually ceased to practice architecture and turned to watercolor painting. First published October 2002.