I'm a bad customer for my own buildings! If I'm choosing an apartment, I choose one about five or six stories high so that I can see the people, the trees, and the world on the street. Beyond that, I lose contact with the ground!
Interpretation
The quote reflects the importance of being connected to the environment and community in architectural design.
Cesar Pelli emphasizes the significance of human connection to the surroundings in architecture, using his preference for mid-rise buildings as an example. He believes that buildings should allow inhabitants to experience their environment and maintain a relationship with the ground and community rather than feeling isolated in tall structures.
In practice
In a discussion about urban planning, this quote can highlight the need for mid-rise buildings that promote community interaction.
I realize that having a style would be very beneficial for my practice from a marketing standpoint, but I can't do it. I believe my responsibilities as an architect are to design the most appropriate building for the place. Each place has a distinct culture and function, which for me requires an appropriate answer.
Architecture adds dimensions to my life that would be impossible to acquire if I retired. The beautiful thing about architecture is that every project is brand new. I am forced to renew myself with every project. Isn't that wonderful?
I'm particularly interested in the public role that all buildings play. I believe that we architects should try to go beyond our basic obligations to the public, and our opportunities to do so are many.
The space within becomes the reality of the building.
Architects design buildings; that's what we do, so we have to go with the flow; and, even though I'm still an old Leftie, global capitalism does have its good side. It's broken down barriers - the Berlin Wall, the Soviet Union - it's raised a lot of people up economically, and for architects, it has meant that we can work around the world.
It is difficult to design a space that will not attract people. What is remarkable is how often this has been accomplished.
Modern buildings of our time are so huge that one must group them. Often the space between these buildings is as important as the buildings themselves.
My passion and great enjoyment for architecture, and the reason the older I get the more I enjoy it, is because I believe we - architects - can effect the quality of life of the people.
If architecture is going to nudge, cajole, and inspire a community to challenge the status quo into making responsible changes, it will take the subversive leadership of academics and practitioners who keep reminding students of the profession’s responsibilities.
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