architecture: analysis and criticism; Modernism

Le Corbusier: Influence by 'Industrial Revolution', he envisioned the destruction of the entire north bank of the Seine to build equally spread residential high-rises within a green open park
C.I.A.M (Congrès Internationaux d'Architecture Moderne):An avant-garde association of architects,searching for a universal architectural language in order to advance both modernism and internationalism in architecture. Looking for rational, functional planning strategies.
PublishedThe Athens Charter in 1933: proposal for zoned and rigid functional cities, with citizens to be housed in high, widely spaced apartment blocs. Green belts would separate each zone of the city. Had profound influence on public authorities and urban design till today.

'finer grains' zoning - as an answer to increasing criticism, more categories and mixed-used areas were developed (neighborhood>building>floor). The modernist apartment design is also rigid.

It is time for architecture to respond to the communication developments:
> speed, wireless, portable tools are available 24/7
> The work environment has been tremendously influenced, as well as leisure, education and home.
> personal scale: 'you don't have to be anywhere to do everything' (McLuhan)