Serge Chermayeff 8 October 1900 – 8 May 1996) was a Russian-born British architect, industrial designer, writer, and co-founder of several architectural societies, including the American Society of Planners and Architects. In 1940, Chermayeff emigrated to the United States where he joined Clarence W. W. Mayhew as associate architect, helping Mayhew design his own residence. In 1946, he was recommended by Walter Gropius to become the president of the Institute of Design in Chicago.
De La Warr Pavilion (Bexhill-on-Sea)
source: artreview
The Modernist and International Style building was designed by the architects Erich Mendelsohn and Serge Chermayeff and constructed in 1935. Seventy years ago, Mendelsohn dubbed the sleek, streamlined form of the pavilion a “horizontal skyscraper.”
Photo: YCDI2020
Today, the building does not look dated at all — its form remains iconic, simple, and bold. Inside there is a feeling of glamour and spaciousness despite the building’s modest footprint.
source: visiteastbourne
The aesthetics employed in the International Style proved especially suited to the building, tending towards streamlined, industrially-influenced designs, often with expansive metal-framed windows, and eschewing traditional brick and stonework in favour of concrete and steel construction.
Photo: Brian Hession
Amongst the building’s most innovative features was its use of a welded steel frame construction, pioneered by structural engineer Felix Samuely.
source: https://bartonengineers.co.uk/de-la-warr-pavilion
In 2005, after an extensive restoration, the De La Warr Pavilion reopened as a contemporary arts centre, encompassing one of the largest galleries on the south coast of England.
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