Pierre Jeanneret
Early Life and Education
Pierre Jeanneret was born on March 22, 1896, in Geneva, Switzerland. He grew up in a family that valued education and culture, which significantly influenced his future career. Jeanneret attended the École des Beaux-Arts in Geneva, where he studied architecture. His education at this prestigious institution laid the foundation for his future contributions to modern architecture.
Collaboration with Le Corbusier
Pierre Jeanneret is best known for his long-term collaboration with his cousin, Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, a pioneer of modern architecture. The partnership between the two began in 1922 and lasted until 1940. Together, they developed numerous architectural projects that have had a lasting impact on the field.
Villa Savoye
One of their most famous collaborations is the Villa Savoye, located in Poissy, France. Completed in 1931, this modernist villa is a prime example of Le Corbusier's "Five Points of Architecture," which include pilotis (supports), a flat roof terrace, an open floor plan, horizontal windows, and a free façade design. Jeanneret played a crucial role in the design and execution of this project, which remains a landmark in modern architecture.
Chandigarh
In the 1950s, Jeanneret moved to India to work on the design and construction of Chandigarh, a new capital city for the Indian state of Punjab. Le Corbusier was appointed as the chief architect, and Jeanneret served as his deputy. Jeanneret was responsible for designing many of the city's public buildings, including the High Court, the Secretariat, and the Legislative Assembly. His work in Chandigarh is considered one of his most significant contributions to architecture.
Architectural Philosophy
Jeanneret's architectural philosophy was heavily influenced by the principles of modernism. He believed in the use of new materials and construction techniques to create functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings. His designs often featured clean lines, open spaces, and an emphasis on natural light. Jeanneret was also a proponent of sustainable architecture, advocating for the use of local materials and environmentally friendly construction methods.
Furniture Design
In addition to his architectural work, Pierre Jeanneret was also an accomplished furniture designer. He collaborated with Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand on a series of iconic furniture pieces that are still highly regarded today. One of their most famous designs is the LC4 Chaise Longue, which epitomizes the modernist approach to furniture design with its sleek lines and functional form.
Later Years and Legacy
After completing his work in Chandigarh, Jeanneret returned to Switzerland, where he continued to work on various architectural projects. He passed away on December 4, 1967, in Geneva. Jeanneret's legacy lives on through his numerous contributions to modern architecture and design. His work continues to inspire architects and designers around the world.