Author Monica Sharma

Blog No. 02

Website Exclusive

07th July, 2023

FAMOUS QUOTES

FAMOUS QUOTES BY GREAT ARCHITECTS

LOUIS KAHN

Louis Kahn (1901-1974) was an American architect known for his monumental and evocative designs. He is considered one of the most important architects of the 20th century and a master of modern architecture. Kahn's work is characterized by a poetic and spiritual quality, achieved through his use of light, materials, and geometric forms.

Kahn's design philosophy was deeply rooted in his exploration of space, light, and the inherent qualities of materials. He believed that architecture should respond to the essential nature of its site and the needs of its users. He sought to create buildings that harmonized with their surroundings and evoked a sense of timelessness.

Some of Kahn's most notable works include the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, California, the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, and the National Assembly Building in Dhaka, Bangladesh. These buildings showcase his mastery of natural light, use of geometric forms, and integration of landscape.

Despite his significant contributions to architecture, Kahn's career had periods of struggle and obscurity. He often faced financial difficulties and struggled to find projects. However, his reputation grew after his death, and his work continues to be celebrated and influential today.

MIES VANDE ROHE

Mies van der Rohe, born Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, was a German-American architect and one of the pioneers of modern architecture. He was born on March 27, 1886, in Aachen, Germany, and passed away on August 17, 1969, in Chicago, United States.

Mies van der Rohe is known for his minimalist approach to architecture, emphasizing clean lines, open spaces, and the use of modern materials such as steel and glass. He believed in the principle of "less is more" and aimed to create buildings that expressed simplicity and clarity.

One of Mies van der Rohe's most famous works is the German Pavilion, also known as the Barcelona Pavilion, which he designed for the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, Spain. It is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture, characterized by its open plan, the use of luxurious materials, and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Another notable project by Mies van der Rohe is the Farnsworth House, built in 1951 near Plano, Illinois, United States. It is a single-story glass house that exemplifies his minimalist style and blurs the boundaries between the interior and the surrounding natural environment.

Mies van der Rohe served as the last director of the Bauhaus, an influential German design school, from 1930 until its closure in 1933. He then emigrated to the United States, where he became the head of the architecture department at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. During his time there, he designed the campus and several buildings, including the iconic Crown Hall, which is regarded as a masterpiece of modern architecture.

Mies van der Rohe's work had a significant impact on the development of modern architecture, and his ideas continue to influence architects and designers to this day. His elegant and minimalistic designs have become iconic symbols of the 20th-century architectural movement.

FRANK GEHRY
Frank Gehry, born Frank Owen Goldberg on February 28, 1929, is a prominent Canadian-American architect known for his innovative and unconventional designs. He has become one of the most celebrated and influential architects of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Gehry was born in Toronto, Canada, and later moved to Los Angeles, California, where he established his architectural practice. He initially studied at the University of Southern California and then attended the Harvard Graduate School of Design, where he earned his Master's degree in architecture.

Gehry gained international recognition for his design of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, completed in 1997. The museum's titanium-clad curvilinear structure, often described as resembling a ship or a sculpture, became an architectural icon and a symbol of urban revitalization. The success of the Guggenheim Bilbao brought Gehry worldwide acclaim and established his reputation as a master of contemporary architecture.

Many of Gehry's buildings are characterized by their distinctive sculptural forms and use of unconventional materials. He often employs complex geometries and curvilinear shapes, challenging traditional notions of architectural design. Some of his other notable projects include: Walt Disney Concert Hall (Los Angeles, California, USA): Completed in 2003, this concert hall is renowned for its striking stainless steel exterior and acoustically exceptional interior.

Dancing House (Prague, Czech Republic): Designed in collaboration with Vlado Milunić, this postmodern office building, completed in 1996, stands out with its dynamic and curving shape.

Fondation Louis Vuitton (Paris, France): Completed in 2014, this contemporary art museum showcases Gehry's signature style with its billowing glass sails.

Gehry's designs have often sparked controversy and debate, with critics arguing that his buildings prioritize form over function. Nevertheless, his work has had a profound impact on the field of architecture and has inspired a new generation of architects to explore unconventional design approaches.

In addition to his architectural practice, Gehry has also been involved in teaching and lecturing at various institutions. He has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1989, which is often considered the highest honor in the field of architecture.

Frank Gehry continues to be an active and influential figure in the world of architecture, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions with his innovative designs.

WINSTON CHURCHILL

Winston Churchill, widely regarded as one of the greatest statesmen of the 20th century, is primarily known for his political and leadership roles rather than his architectural endeavors. While Churchill was not professionally trained as an architect, he had a keen interest in architecture and played a significant role in shaping the design and construction of various buildings and monuments during his time in power.

During World War II, Churchill was instrumental in the reconstruction efforts of the war-torn areas in the United Kingdom, particularly London. He appointed architect Lord Reith to oversee the post-war reconstruction projects, which included the restoration and rebuilding of damaged buildings. Churchill emphasized the importance of preserving the architectural heritage of the country while also incorporating modern designs where necessary.

One of the most famous architectural projects associated with Churchill is the construction of the Churchill War Rooms in London. These underground bunkers, located beneath the Treasury building, served as the nerve center for the British government's operations during the war. Churchill recognized the significance of these rooms and ordered their preservation after the war. Today, the Churchill War Rooms serve as a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the wartime operations and Churchill's leadership.

While Churchill's architectural involvement was primarily related to strategic planning, restoration, and preservation rather than designing structures himself, his influence and vision played a crucial role in shaping the architectural landscape of post-war Britain. His commitment to preserving historic buildings and creating functional spaces for the government's operations left a lasting impact on the architectural heritage of the country.

DANIEL LIBESKIND

Daniel Libeskind is an internationally renowned architect known for his innovative and distinctive designs. He was born on May 12, 1946, in Łódź, Poland. Libeskind's work is characterized by its bold geometric forms, sharp angles, and dramatic interplay of light and shadow.

Another significant project by Libeskind is the master plan for the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site in New York City after the September 11 attacks. His design, known as the "Memory Foundations," includes the iconic One World Trade Center (Freedom Tower), the 9/11 Memorial, and the Museum Pavilion.

Libeskind has designed numerous other buildings and cultural institutions around the world. Some of his notable works include the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco, the Royal Ontario Museum's Michael Lee-Chin Crystal in Toronto, and the Grand Canal Theatre (now the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre) in Dublin, Ireland.

Daniel Libeskind's architecture is known for its ability to evoke emotional responses and tell stories through spatial experiences. His designs often challenge conventional notions of form and function, creating dynamic and thought-provoking spaces that engage with their surroundings and historical contexts.

Remembering Famous Quotes by Great Architects… - 6

Remembering Famous Quotes by Great Architects… - 7

CHARLES EAMES

Charles Eames was not primarily an architect, but rather a designer and architect who made significant contributions to modern furniture design and industrial design. He is best known for his groundbreaking work in furniture design, particularly in collaboration with his wife, Ray Eames.

Charles Ormond Eames Jr. was born on June 17, 1907, in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. He studied architecture at Washington University in St. Louis and later at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan. In 1940, he established the Eames Office with his wife Ray Eames, whom he married in 1941.

Together, Charles and Ray Eames are known for their innovative use of new materials, particularly plywood, in furniture design. They created iconic designs such as the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood Chair, and the Eames Wire Chair. Their furniture designs combined aesthetics, comfort, and functionality, and they were pioneers in the use of molded plywood and other innovative manufacturing techniques.

In addition to furniture design, Charles and Ray Eames also worked on various architectural projects. They designed and built their own home, known as the Eames House or Case Study House No. 8, in Pacific Palisades, California, in 1949. The house is a landmark of modernist architecture and reflects their design principles of simplicity, functionality, and integration with nature.

While Charles Eames is primarily known for his contributions to design and furniture, his work encompassed a wide range of disciplines, including architecture, graphic design, film, and exhibition design. His innovative approach and enduring designs have had a significant influence on modern design and continue to be celebrated and emulated today.

NORMAN FOSTER
Norman Foster, also known as Lord Foster of Thames Bank, is a British architect and designer. He was born on June 1, 1935, in Reddish, Stockport, England. Foster is known for his innovative and influential architectural designs, characterized by their sleek and modernist aesthetic.

Foster studied architecture at the University of Manchester and later received a master's degree from the Yale School of Architecture in the United States. In 1967, he established his own architectural firm, Foster Associates, which eventually became Foster + Partners. The firm has since gained global recognition for its diverse range of projects spanning various sectors, including commercial, cultural, educational, and transportation.

Foster's architectural style is often characterized by the integration of advanced technology, energy efficiency, and sustainable design principles. His buildings are known for their striking structural designs, extensive use of glass, and incorporation of natural light. Some of his most notable projects include:The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) Headquarters in Hong Kong: Completed in 1986, this iconic skyscraper is renowned for its innovative design, featuring a steel framework and a high-tech glass curtain wall.

The Millennium Bridge in London: Completed in 2000, this pedestrian bridge spans the River Thames and provides a link between the City of London and the Tate Modern gallery. It is a suspension bridge with a unique design that offers panoramic views of the city.Norman Foster's contributions to the field of architecture have earned him numerous accolades and awards. He has received the Pritzker Architecture Prize, which is considered one of the highest honors in architecture. Foster was also awarded the prestigious Prince of Asturias Award in the Arts category.Beyond his architectural work, Foster has been involved in urban planning and design, contributing to projects such as the master plan for the redevelopment of Berlin's Potsdamer Platz and the design of the Masdar City development in Abu Dhabi, which aims to be a sustainable city.Norman Foster's career and architectural vision have had a significant impact on the built environment, and his designs continue to inspire and shape the field of architecture worldwide.

Remembering Famous Quotes by Great Architects… - 8

Remembering Famous Quotes by Great Architects… - 9

OSCAR NIEMEYER

Oscar Niemeyer (1907-2012) was a renowned Brazilian architect known for his innovative and influential contributions to modern architecture. He is considered one of the pioneers of modernist architecture and is celebrated for his distinct style characterized by flowing lines, bold curves, and the integration of architecture with nature.

Niemeyer was born on December 15, 1907, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He studied architecture at the National School of Fine Arts in Rio de Janeiro and began his career working in his father's typography office. In the 1930s, Niemeyer became involved with a group of architects and intellectuals who embraced modernist principles, which greatly influenced his design approach.

One of Niemeyer's most significant projects was his collaboration with architect Le Corbusier on the design of the Ministry of Education and Health building in Rio de Janeiro. This project, completed in 1943, showcased Niemeyer's talent for creating striking modernist designs that blended functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Niemeyer's most famous project is the design of the buildings for the capital city of Brazil, Brasília. In 1956, Niemeyer was appointed as the chief architect for the construction of Brasília, a new planned city intended to serve as the country's capital. He designed numerous iconic buildings in Brasília, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Congress, and the Palácio do Planalto (the presidential palace). His designs for Brasília helped to shape the city's unique architectural landscape and earned him international acclaim.

Throughout his career, Niemeyer completed numerous projects worldwide, including museums, cultural centers, and public buildings. His works are characterized by their sculptural quality, with buildings appearing as if they are molded from concrete and shaped by the surrounding environment.

Oscar Niemeyer received numerous awards and accolades for his architectural achievements, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1988, which is considered one of the highest honors in the field of architecture.

Niemeyer continued to work on architectural projects well into his nineties. He passed away on December 5, 2012, in Rio de Janeiro, leaving behind a rich legacy of architectural innovation and a profound impact on the field of modernist architecture.

ZAHA HADID
Zaha Hadid was a renowned architect known for her innovative and groundbreaking designs. She was born on October 31, 1950, in Baghdad, Iraq, and passed away on March 31, 2016, in Miami, Florida, United States.Hadid was widely recognized for her distinctive and futuristic architectural style, characterized by fluid forms, bold curves, and geometric complexity. Her designs often pushed the boundaries of conventional architecture, creating dynamic and visually striking structures.Some of Zaha Hadid's notable works include:

Vitra Fire Station (1993) - Weil am Rhein, Germany: This project was one of Hadid's first major commissions and helped establish her reputation as an influential architect. The fire station features angular geometries and sharp lines, showcasing her signature style.

Heydar Aliyev Center (2012) - Baku, Azerbaijan: The Heydar Aliyev Center is an iconic cultural center known for its flowing, white forms. It houses a variety of facilities, including a conference hall, museum, and exhibition spaces.

London Aquatics Centre (2012) - London, United Kingdom: Designed for the 2012 Olympic Games, the Aquatics Centre features a wave-like roof and a stunning interior. It has become a prominent landmark in LondonZaha Hadid's work earned her numerous accolades and awards, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize (2004) and the Stirling Prize (2010, 2011). Her contributions to the field of architecture continue to inspire and influence architects worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.

FAMOUS QUOTES

FAMOUS QUOTES BY GREAT ARCHITECTS

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