Journal of Spatial Futures

Journal of Spatial Futures

Blog Article

Abstraction of Colorful Light

Philip Johnson on Great Architecture

Architectural Design

All architecture is shelter, all great architecture is the design of space that contains, cuddles, exalts, or stimulates the persons in that space. — Philip Johnson

What is Great Architecture?

Buildings are all over the place, but not all buildings are architecture. In the above quote, Philip Johnson talks about the point where a building becomes great architecture, taking an occupant to another level where a space actually “touches” a person. Through the senses, emotion, cognition and even spiritual moments — a great building has qualities that “move” you.

I think that as architects we should strive to achieve such qualities in our work, going beyond the programmatic to reach a type of language that speaks through our style. Great architecture most usually exhibits this type of quality, conveying to occupants in renewed ways or simply reminding them of something they have felt before.

Either way, great architecture taps into human experience — uncovering and creating that which inspires and often stirs our soul.

Image Credit: © bee721 | Flickr

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Plus, get the

Sensory Design Guide

On the 24 Laws of Architectural Perception


SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE


Join DESIGN FUTURECAST to get special VIP Access to Maria Lorena Lehman's design guide, podcast, and newsletter including news of her latest art and design works, book publications, creative design processes, new inspirations, teaching resources, and upcoming exhibitions.


All delivered directly to your email inbox.

Advisory

Unlock world-class design insight, strategy, and refinement through personalized advisory offerings that help architects, designers, and futurists elevate their work into iconic, future-shaping legacies.
Rotating Quantum Key
Futuristic Portal Image

Advisory

Unlock world-class design insight, strategy, and refinement through personalized advisory offerings that help architects, designers, and futurists elevate their work into iconic, future-shaping legacies.
Rotating Quantum Key
Futuristic Portal Image

Advisory

Unlock world-class design insight, strategy, and refinement through personalized advisory offerings that help architects, designers, and futurists elevate their work into iconic, future-shaping legacies.
Rotating Quantum Key
Futuristic Portal Image