Meaning:
The quote "To create architecture is to put in order. Put what in order? Function and objects." by Le Corbusier encapsulates the essence of his architectural philosophy and approach to design. Le Corbusier, whose real name was Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, was a Swiss-French architect, designer, and urban planner who is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern architecture. He was a prolific writer and thinker whose ideas continue to influence architectural discourse and practice to this day.
In this quote, Le Corbusier emphasizes the fundamental principles of architecture: the organization of space and the relationship between function and form. For Le Corbusier, architecture was not merely about creating aesthetically pleasing structures, but rather about organizing space in a way that serves the functions it is intended for. He believed that the architect's role was to bring order to the built environment by carefully considering the needs and activities of the people who would inhabit the space.
The notion of putting "function and objects" in order speaks to Le Corbusier's commitment to designing buildings and spaces that are both efficient and purposeful. He was a proponent of the idea that form should follow function, meaning that the design of a building should be dictated by its intended use and the needs of its occupants. This approach led him to develop a series of principles known as the "Five Points of Architecture," which included concepts such as pilotis (supports), flat roofs, open floor plans, horizontal windows, and free façades, all of which were aimed at maximizing the functionality and usability of the spaces he created.
Le Corbusier's emphasis on order and functionality also reflected his belief in the potential for architecture to contribute to social progress and improve the quality of life. He was deeply invested in the idea of creating efficient, affordable, and adaptable housing solutions to address the pressing urban challenges of his time. This led him to develop concepts such as the "Unité d'Habitation," a modular housing design that aimed to provide a high standard of living for a large number of people in a relatively small space.
Furthermore, Le Corbusier's approach to putting "function and objects in order" extended beyond individual buildings to encompass the planning and organization of entire cities. He was a vocal advocate for urban planning that prioritized efficiency, rationality, and the well-being of inhabitants. His influential book "The City of Tomorrow and Its Planning" outlined his vision for reimagining urban environments to better serve the needs of their residents, emphasizing the importance of green spaces, efficient transportation systems, and the separation of industrial and residential areas.
In conclusion, Le Corbusier's quote "To create architecture is to put in order. Put what in order? Function and objects." encapsulates his belief in the fundamental principles of architecture: the organization of space, the relationship between function and form, and the potential of design to improve the quality of life. His ideas continue to shape the way architects approach their work, serving as a reminder of the enduring importance of considering the practical needs of users and the larger societal implications of architectural design.