When we think of Michelangelo we think of his David, la Pietà, the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, but we don’t immediately think architecture! But when I googled most famous architects there he is in the top 10.
Construction on the Laurentian Libray began in 1525. This library which houses over 11,000 manuscripts and 4,500 books was commissioned by the Medici and pope Clement VII. One of its purposes was to demonstrate that thee Medici’s were no longer merchants but members of the intellect. Slight plug for Netflix, if you haven`t seen Medici: Masters of Florence consider watching it – quite nicely done series.
Michelangelo designed this vestibule which features columns, recessed niches, and a staircase whose steps it is said flow down as if made of lava.
He designed the upper storey of the Farnese Palace including its impressive cornice.
In 1546 he designed the complex pavement of the Campidoglio.
1547 he was tasked with completing the dome of St.Peter’s Basilica. Such as it was with buildings of this magnitude they are started with one architect and finished by another. Michelangelo designed the dome, and after his death one of his pupil’s finished it. Its design is such that it has been used as a model for other domes: Saint Paul’s in London, Les Invalides in Paris, and the Capitol building in Washington.
