Marinus Jan Granpré Molière facts for kids

Marinus Jan Granpré Molière (born in Oudenbosch on October 13, 1883, and passed away in Wassenaar on February 13, 1972) was a very important Dutch architect. He is known for his traditional style of building and for planning new towns.

Who Was Granpré Molière?

Marinus Jan Granpré Molière was a leading figure in Dutch architecture. He taught at the Delft University of Technology, which is a famous school for engineers and architects. He was seen as the person who started the Traditionalist School in architecture.

What Was the Traditionalist School?

The Traditionalist School was a way of thinking about how buildings should look and be built. Architects in this school believed in using older, more classic building styles. They often focused on local traditions and materials. They wanted buildings to fit well into their surroundings and look timeless, rather than following very modern or experimental designs.

Designing New Towns and Areas

Granpré Molière was also very involved in planning large areas, not just single buildings. He led many urban projects, which means he helped design entire new towns or parts of cities.

• One of his big projects was the Wieringermeer, starting in 1927. This was a new piece of land created from the sea. He helped plan how towns and farms would be laid out there.
• Another major project was the North East Polder, which began in 1937. This was also new land reclaimed from the sea, and Molière played a key role in designing its communities.

These projects were about creating functional and beautiful places for people to live and work in newly formed landscapes.

An Architect at the Olympics

Did you know that art used to be part of the Olympic Games? Granpré Molière's work was featured in the architecture event at the 1924 Summer Olympics. This shows how highly regarded his architectural designs were, even on an international stage.

Images for kids

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  Villa Eversweg 2, a house designed by Molière in Nijmegen.

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  The Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Breda.

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  A pumping station in Nijmegen.

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  Van Lawick van Pabststraat 33, a building in Arnhem.