Where Style Meets Design

What is meant by “Form Follows Function” and why does it matter?

This phrase, often heard in reference to architectural design, refers to the purpose of a building. The way the building is constructed should be in line with how it will be used. The building’s purpose, in essence, should be the starting point for the design. This concept was first proposed by Louis Sullivan (1856-1924) in his Chicago-based architectural firm and was generally applied to all things architectural for many years. Until, that is, a young employee of Sullivan’s named Frank Lloyd Wright revised the axiom to say “Form and function are one.” His vision and construction of the Guggenheim Museum is a primary example of this idea. 

While we at Permacast Concrete Fencing & Walls admire great architecture, we also believe that everything we build should embody its main function and purpose. The primary purpose of our precast concrete walls and fencing is to protect a community while providing beautiful, long-lasting privacy and security. Our walls and fences surround housing developments where residents expect a high level of safety as well as peace and quiet. Since we can control the density of our precast concrete, sound is absorbed, making it an ideal surrounding to a peaceful neighborhood. And, since precast concrete can be molded and shaped into virtually any design, the color, texture, and beauty of our walls is as versatile as the imagination. 

Furthermore, the concrete walls surrounding a housing development should be sustainable in harsh weather conditions. Our precast concrete resists fires, high winds, insects, mold and anything else Mother Nature throws its way. This reduces the need for repair and, in turn, insurance costs. Thanks to these weather-resistant qualities, Permacast Precast Concrete Fencing & Walls is able and ready to stand the test of time. 

So, while the purpose and functionality of Permacast Precast Concrete Fencing & Walls is quite different than that of the Guggenheim, we have to say we fully agree with Frank Lloyd Wright. Form and function are one, and you can find both in our amazing precast concrete designs.