An Ohio-based architect, Robert Tirgan serves as president of The Modern Edge, Ltd., in Columbus. In his work, he enjoys the challenge that comes with integrating architecture with organic forms and other works of art. Some of Robert Tirgan's other professional interests include architectural modernism, particularly the role of deconstructivism in architectural design.
Emerging in the late 20th century, deconstructivist architecture came to the public's attention thanks in large part to a show at New York's Museum of Modern Art. The exhibition entitled simply Deconstructivist Architecture featured the work of Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, Daniel Libeskind, and other avant-garde architects who were influenced by the deconstructivist ideas of the post-structuralist philosopher Jacques Derrida.
As the name suggests, deconstructivism is an architectural approach that attempts to take apart traditional forms (such as right angles and grids) in favor of fragmentation and the manipulation of a structure's surface. Deconstructivist architects incorporate non-rectilinear shapes and “irrational” design elements to distort the basic “bits and pieces” of architecture.
While some deconstructivist designs completely disregard visual logic and coherence, others feature a harmonious, natural flow that brings life to a physical structure. Some of the most well-known examples of deconstructivist architecture are the Walt Disney Concert Hall designed by Frank Gehry, the UFA Cinema Center designed by Coop Himmelblau, and the Vitra Fire Station designed by Zaha Hadid.
