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.
Interpretation
Buildings should serve a greater purpose in the community beyond their physical presence.
Cesar Pelli emphasizes the importance of architecture not just as a discipline focused on designing buildings, but as a profession with a responsibility to contribute positively to society. He believes architects have the opportunity to create spaces that enhance public life and serve the community, urging them to fulfill their roles with a broader vision in mind.
In practice
During a lecture about sustainable architecture, one might use this quote to inspire future architects.
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 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!
There is a danger when every building has to look spectacular; to look like it is changing the world. I don't care how a building looks if it means something, not to architects, but to the people who use it.
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.
A profound design process eventually makes the patron, the architect, and every occasional visitor in the building a slightly better human being.
Light creates ambience and feel of a place, as well as the expression of a structure.
Most of the wonderful places in the world were not made by architects but by the people.
I don't know why people hire architects and then tell them what to do.
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