How Architects changed the category Modern Architecture over time

What is it about?

This study tells the story of the formation and changes made to what is considered part of modern architecture between 1870 and 1975. It shows that new category formation was driven by groups of architects with distinct clientele that made different demands and cared about different aspects because of the institutions to which they belonged. “Modern architects” fought over what social codes should guide “modern architecture.” The conflict became a source of creative tension for modern architects that followed. The conflict was resolved by expanding what was considered modern architecture over time.

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Why is it important?

Our findings show how categories and logics interact in the production of culture. We also capture how a new category emerges and becomes settled when it becomes a "big tent" open to the contribution of diverse others that were previously excluded.