Dictionary of Modern Architecture: Organic

The Sydney Opera House, designed by Jørn Utzon, winner of the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2003

Photo by David Messent, courtesy of Jørn Utzon/Utzon Architects and the Pritzker Prize Committee

Frank Lloyd Wright said that all architecture is organic, and the Art Nouveau architects of the early twentieth century incorporated curving, plant-like shapes into their designs. But in the later half of the twentieth century, Modernist architects took the concept of organic architecture to new heights. By using new forms of concrete and cantilever trusses, architects could create swooping arches without visible beams or pillars.

Organic buildings are never linear or rigidly geometric. Instead, wavy lines and curved shapes suggest natural forms.