Life is more important than architecture.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
I deliberately disregarded the right angle and rationalist architecture designed with ruler and square to boldly enter the world of curves and straight lines offered by reinforced concrete... This deliberate protest arose from the environment in which I lived, with its white beaches, its huge mountains, its old baroque churches, and the beautiful suntanned women.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Niemeyer's quote highlights his rejection of traditional architectural methods in favor of more organic forms inspired by his surroundings.
Oscar Niemeyer expresses his intentional choice to move away from conventional architecture characterized by right angles and rational design. Instead, he embraces the fluidity and dynamism of curves and organic shapes, which he feels are more reflective of his environment's natural beauty, including its landscapes and cultural influences. This sentiment reveals his belief that architecture should be more than just function; it should resonate with the essence of its surroundings and capture the spirit of its location.
Themes
ArchitectureDesignCurvesNatureEnvironment
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about innovative building techniques, one could quote Niemeyer to emphasize the importance of embracing organic design.
More from Oscar Niemeyer
All quotes →We need to feel that life is important; we need that fantasy so we can live a little better.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
Here, then, is what I wanted to tell you of my architecture. I created it with courage and idealism, but also with an awareness of the fact that what is important is life, friends and attempting to make this unjust world a better place in which to live.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
When you have a large space to conquer, the curve is the natural solution.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
I was attracted by the curve — the liberated, sensual curve suggested by the possibilities of new technology yet so often recalled in venerable old baroque churches.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
Curves are the essence of my work because they are the essence of Brazil, pure and simple.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
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