Definition

Proper noun: - Louis Henri Sullivan: An American architect, recognized as a pioneer of modern architecture, particularly for his early steel-framed skyscrapers and his influential design principle "form follows function."

Usage

• As a subject or object: The name is used to refer to the historical figure, his work, or his ideas.
  • Louis Henri Sullivan is often called the "father of the skyscraper."
  • The auditorium was designed by Louis Henri Sullivan.
  • We studied the philosophy of Louis Henri Sullivan in class.

Advanced Usage

• "A Sullivan building": Used adjectivally to describe architecture characteristic of his style.
  • The ornate terra cotta details are a hallmark of a Sullivan building.

Variants and Related Words

• Sullivanesque (adj): Describing architectural designs that reflect or imitate the style of Louis Sullivan, particularly the use of organic, intricate ornamentation on steel-framed structures.
  • The building's facade features Sullivanesque decorative patterns.

Synonyms

• Louis Sullivan (the more common shortened form of his name).
• The father of the skyscraper (a common epithet).

Related Phrases

• "Form follows function": The famous axiom coined by Sullivan, expressing the principle that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function.
  • The architect adhered to Sullivan's maxim that form follows function.

Noun

1. United States architect known for his steel framed skyscrapers and for coining the phrase `form follows function' (1856-1924)