Notes on the Life and Designs of Louis Kahn

Introduction

Louis Kahn: An architect known for his impactful and geometric designs.
Legacy: Beyond buildings, Kahn's life story encompasses roles as a student, teacher, husband, and father.

Birth: Itzelayb Shmulowski born in 1901 in Estonia (then part of the Russian Empire).
Family Background: Poor Jewish family; father served as a paymaster in the Russian army and was also an artist.
Injury: At age 3, burned his face while playing with coals; carried scars for life.
Emigration: Family moved to the U.S. in 1906 due to the Russo-Japanese War.
Early Talent: Showed a gift for drawing; used burnt twigs and matches for art due to financial constraints.

Name Change: Family adopted the surname "Kahn" in 1915 to assimilate.
Art Scholarship: Received a full art scholarship but chose to work jobs to pay for architecture education instead.
Graduation: Graduated as an architect in 1924.

Early Career: Worked as a draftsman; partnered with notable architects but did not create many buildings early on.
Marriage: Married Esther Virginia Israeli in 1930; had a daughter, Sue Ann, ten years later.
Exploration: Influenced by International Style and Le Corbusier but still searching for his own style.

American Academy of Rome: Offered a residency in 1950, which led to a transformative experience across Europe.
Rediscovery: Inspired by ancient ruins and the play of light; aimed to create modern buildings that felt timeless.

Yale University Art Gallery: First building showcasing his new architectural style, completed in 1953.
Concrete Bath House: Key project in Trenton; marked a turning point in his design philosophy.
Richards Laboratory: Built in 1957-62; gained attention for its design despite functional issues.
Salt Lake Institute: Commissioned by Jonas Salk; praised as a masterpiece, completed in 1959.
IIM Ahmedabad: Completed in 1962, notable for its use of light and exposed brick.

Affair with Anne Griswold-Thing: Had a daughter, Alexandria; remained married to Esther.
Final Projects: Worked on the Parliament of Bangladesh until his death.
Death: Died of a heart attack in 1974 at Penn Station; tragic circumstances regarding his identity after death.
Financial Struggles: Despite accolades, faced financial difficulties towards the end of his life due to spending on projects.

Family Impact: Nathaniel Kahn, Lou's son, became a filmmaker and explored his father’s life in the documentary "My Architect."
Final Letter: Expressed the importance of collaboration and ambition in architecture.
Reflection on Architecture: Kahn's ultimate sacrifice was for his work, which he regarded as his greatest achievement.