Colourful Constructions

Ancient buildings are often thought to be made of plain white or grey stone, but many were originally quite colourful. Architects used materials like painted wood, stucco, terracotta, and marble to add vibrant hues. The Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, although it looks white today, once had colourful columns in red, blue, and gold, with painted sculptures. Gottfried Semper's work, planned in 1836, aimed to explore the use of colour in architecture, including Greek, Roman, and Christian designs.

John Outram's Isle of Dogs water pumping station uses colour to transform industrial architecture into a work of art. His vibrant colour choices and playful ornamentation, like exaggerated columns and geometric shapes, create a whimsical, layered aesthetic alongside the patterned brick facade. The Postmodern architectural movement of the late 20th century embraced colour as a means of reviving historical references and creating visually stimulating environments or buildings. 

The Clore Gallery extension showcases Stirling's subtle integration of colour, using a warm palette of yellow, pink and blue to harmonise with the Tate Britain's original architecture and define architectural features. The interior design utilises colour to differentiate spaces and create a welcoming atmosphere.

The white exterior of the MAC reflects the Brazilian sun, further emphasised by the museum's location amidst the natural landscape and blue waters of Guanabara Bay. A winding red ramp leads to the main exhibition spaces creating a dynamic transition from the exterior and interior. The use of red is associated with energy, creativity and passion, contrasting with its surroundings, enhancing the museum's visual appeal, fostering a sense of connection between art and nature.