The TV series “Severance” has brought to light some architectural gems, including the midcentury modern ‘Severance’ set designed by architect Kaneji Domoto. Domoto, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, built the house in 1949 in Usonia, New York, following Wright’s Usonian principles of affordable, design-led family homes.
The Bier House, as it was named after its owners, features a cantilevered hearth, skylights made from fibreglass, and walls constructed from fieldstone. The design showcases a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces, a hallmark of organic architecture, emphasizing the central hearth as a focal point where characters gather during key scenes in the series.
Domoto’s architectural style, heavily influenced by Wright, incorporated natural materials like Cypress wood, concrete, and fieldstone, mirroring Wright’s preference for such elements. Despite Wright’s departure from the Usonian project where Domoto was involved, the architect went on to complete 700 projects, spanning both architecture and landscape gardening, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.
The Usonian project aimed to provide affordable homes to the middle class, focusing on the use of sustainable materials and a seamless integration of design with nature. Domoto’s work, particularly the Bier House, exemplifies these principles, showcasing a blend of functionality and aesthetics that characterize modern home architecture.
With “Severance” shedding light on this architectural marvel, viewers get a glimpse into the rich history and design philosophy underpinning midcentury modern homes. The legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright and his protégés continues to influence contemporary architecture, emphasizing a harmonious relationship between dwellings and their natural surroundings.
As the series captivates audiences with its intricate storyline, the architectural backdrop adds another layer of intrigue and sophistication. The fusion of design elements in the ‘Severance’ set underscores the enduring appeal of modernist architecture, resonating with viewers and design enthusiasts alike.
Through the lens of “Severance,” viewers are transported into a world where architectural marvels serve as more than mere backdrops but as integral components of the narrative. The Bier House stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of architects like Domoto, who continue to shape the landscape of modern home architecture with their visionary designs.
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