Title Kahn's Fireplaces as Independent Object in the middle of Space
Authors Hong, Ye-Eun ; Nam, Sung-Taeg
DOI https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK_PD.2020.36.4.3
Page pp.3-11
ISSN 1226-9093
Keywords Louis Kahn; Fireplace; Genel House; Fisher House; Servant Element; Independent Object
Abstract The fireplace has been inseparable from the wall. Therefore, the fireplace, which is independently revealed in the living room, is unusual and exceptional. According to the concept of "Served-Servant space" by Louis Kahn, "Servant space" is conceived as an inhabited thick wall and completely separated from "Served space." The fireplace is an apparent servant element, but in Fisher house, it is considered as the single, remarkable and major element composing the house. Paradoxically, this scene of the living room is in conflict with Kahn's ideas on "Servant space." This study sheds new light on the independent fireplace in the conflicting relationship and suggests the similarities with the contemporary cases-Le Corbusier & Philip Johnson-in terms of the stand-alone "Servant element." In the end, the independent fireplace of the Fisher house has transformed into an essential element of the house, as Kahn said that "I feel it[fireplace] represents the presence of a man and therefore is of home."