Modernists wished to get away from a historical tradition. Architecture stands frozen in a surreal timelessness . Fixed objects act as receptacles for varying program, responding to technology and culture of the time. Necropolis Cemetery of San Cataldo Modena Hierarchy A grave is a house for the corpse. The cemetery is a city for the graves.
Formal elements repeat.
The Manhattan skyline requires an architectural envelope for its components. The programs are always changing and must fit within the envelope. Form does not follow function. With repetition of elements, forming a historical continuity, sometimes architecture begins to mimic itself, not being true to its own timeframe. In order to best exemplify a piece the architecture should contrast and therefore compliment the surrounding through variable use of materials and forms.