Meaning: "Each building has to be beautiful, but cheap and fast, but it lasts forever. That is already an incredible battery of seemingly contradictory demands. So yes, I'm definitely perhaps a contradictory person, but I operate in very contradictory times." - Rem Koolhaas, Architect

This quote by renowned architect Rem Koolhaas encapsulates the complex and often conflicting nature of architectural design and construction in the modern world. Koolhaas, known for his innovative and thought-provoking approach to architecture, acknowledges the multitude of demands placed upon architects and their creations. In this quote, he highlights the challenging balance between beauty, cost, speed, and durability that architects must navigate in their work.

The first demand Koolhaas mentions is that "each building has to be beautiful." This speaks to the artistic and aesthetic considerations that are integral to architectural design. Beauty in architecture encompasses a wide range of elements, including form, proportion, materials, and spatial experiences. Architects strive to create buildings that not only serve their functional purpose but also inspire and uplift those who interact with them.

The second demand, "but cheap and fast," addresses the practical and economic aspects of building construction. In a world where time and money are often limited resources, there is a constant pressure to deliver projects within tight budgets and timelines. This can present a significant challenge for architects, as they must find ways to balance cost-effectiveness and efficiency without compromising the quality and integrity of their designs.

The final demand, "but it lasts forever," emphasizes the long-term durability and sustainability of buildings. Architecture is a lasting form of expression, and structures are expected to endure for generations. This requirement introduces considerations of resilience, longevity, and environmental impact, pushing architects to design with an eye toward the future and the impact their work will have on the built environment over time.

Koolhaas acknowledges that these demands may appear contradictory at first glance. The pursuit of beauty may seem at odds with the constraints of cost and speed, while the imperative for longevity adds another layer of complexity to the equation. However, he suggests that these contradictions are not only inherent in the practice of architecture but also reflective of the broader societal context in which architects operate.

Indeed, the modern world is characterized by rapid technological advancements, economic pressures, and environmental concerns, all of which shape the way buildings are conceived, designed, and constructed. Architects like Koolhaas are tasked with navigating these complex and often conflicting forces, seeking innovative solutions that reconcile seemingly contradictory demands.

In conclusion, Rem Koolhaas' quote serves as a poignant reflection on the multifaceted nature of architectural practice. It encapsulates the inherent tensions between beauty, cost, speed, and longevity that architects must contend with in their work. By acknowledging and embracing these contradictions, Koolhaas challenges the status quo and encourages a more nuanced and holistic approach to architectural design and construction.