Ospedale degli Innocenti Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ospedale degli Innocenti - Essay Example Ospedale degli Innocenti is one of the great architectural masterpieces by Filippo Brunelleschi. The building is located in Florence, Italy. Its title is translated as a hospital of innocents and often referred as a foundling hospital in literature. Built during 1419–1451 to serve as an orphanage and hospital for children, the building represents clear influences of new architecture which came to replace dominant gothic motifs (GÃ ¼nther, 2010). The building was finished after the death of the architect. It is absolutely symmetrical and orderly organized which is typical for ancient Roman buildings. Inner courtyard of Ospedale degli Innocenti reminds Roman forum plan. It has an open space surrounded by arcades which create some private space in urban settings. Rectangular and square forms dominate the space. Columns are very important elements of traditional Roman architecture. In order to stress the symmetry of the building, all columns have equal distance between them. Cori nthian capitals add ornamentation to the building. Moreover, Brunelleschi designs fluted pilasters which are aimed at decorating the building and keeping the same order of symmetry (LaChiusa, 2002). This arcade on the ground floor of the building becomes the distinguishing feature of the building and makes it easy to recognize. Rounded arches which enclose the arcade create more space for decorum (LaChiusa, 2002). Overall, the exterior of the building shows that the architect was inspired by classical Roman architecture.