Patrick J. Quinn, FAIA, Professor Emeritus of Architecture at RPI will be speaking. Modern architecture is generally characterized by simplification of form and creation of ornament from the building's structure and theme. Early modern architecture began at the turn of the 20th century with efforts to reconcile the principles underlying architectural design with rapid technological advancement. Gaining popularity after World War II, architectural modernism was adopted by many influential architects and architectural educators, and continues as a dominant architectural style for institutional and corporate buildings into the 21st century. But what about domestic architecture? Mr. Quinn will provide historical context for the movement and discuss how this school of thought has been used in the design of residential buildings. Lecture will take place at RCHS. 2:00pm House Tour: Elwin Stevens Home, Brunswick, NY Elwin Steven's compound is situated on the bank of the Poestenkill adjacent to a picturesque waterfall. The property includes, in addition to the main residence: a detached woodworking shop, an arboretum, a two-bedroom guest house, a screen-enclosed gazebo, a clay tennis court, a barn, and a campanile with an antique bell cast at the Meneely Bell Foundry in Watervliet. A small hydro-power plant, currently inactive, is complete and ready to be put back in service with a bit of maintenance. All structures on the property were designed in the modernist architectural vocabulary by Mr. Stevens, who also participated in much of the construction work. Elwin Stevens was a member of the faculty of the RPI School of Architecture during the post-World War II period.
