This is one of my absolute favorite works by Rohe. Built in 1929, the German/Barcelona Pavilion was built as part of the Barcelona International Exposition where architects from various countries gathered to both help with urban development and experiment with various different architectural designs. This building, the German’s section of the exhibit, was all class and as fancy as could be. The building included an array of various materials including red onyx, marble, and travertine.
An interesting thing I read about the story behind the building was Rohe’s plans for it. He wanted it to be a comfortable place where people could walk through it and unwind. One of my favorite aspects of the building that I believe contributes to his intention for that, is its open space. I love the unique design of the building, where it allows a lot of sunlight to enter as well as open doorways that lead to the outside. It avoids what many buildings tend to do, which is reinforce the feeling of being in an enclosed space and set apart from nature. The way Rohe designed it, it seems like the building is a part of it, where the tall clear windows, outside pools, and greenery make it feel like a part of the environment. Beside the pool outside, there is also a sculpture by the Georg Kolbe and adds to the artistic aspect of the building and its beautiful architecture.
After the completion of the building, it became an area for reception space for industrial exhibits and events by the German government.
http://www.miessociety.org/legacy/projects/the-barcelona-pavilion/#7
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barcelona_Pavilion#/media/File:Barcelona_Pavilion_contrast.JPG
https://www.facebook.com/56200560378/photos/a.56393110378.90553.56200560378/10150235303370379/?type=3&theater