Manifesting the Ideology of Monumentality through case of Louis Kahn’s Buildings. National Assembly Hall, Dhaka.

Abstract

The dissertation discusses on monumentality. Several modern architects, including Louis I. Kahn, initially used the word “monumentality” during the Modern Movement. It was a method of expression that was opposed to the functionalist modernism that had previously ruled and ignored residential building. After the Second World War, it was evident that the functionalist Modern Movement was ill-equipped to deal with the shifting socio-political landscape. Kahn changed his focus after having this realization to large-scale and institutional structures, which ultimately determined his professional path and established his rep utation as a significant player in the field of modern architecture. Together with other contemporary architects, Louis I. Kahn developed “monumentality” as a reaction to functionalist modernism. As a result, Kahn concentrated on large-scale and institu tional projects, such as the Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad and the National Assembly Hall in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The structure exhibits Kahn’s definition of “monumentality” through inventive struc tural systems and expressive shapes that inspire collective memory. It also represents the cultural and socio-economic backdrop of the area. The National Assembly Hall in Dhaka is a notable example of Kahn’s approach to monumental architecture, contrib uting significantly to the architectural discourse. It demonstrates his ability to create contemporary symbols rooted in regional history and culture while preserving tradi tional elements - an excellent testament to Louis I. Kahn’s legacy.