Charles Rennie Mackintosh

Architecture Scottish 1868 – 1928 100 quotes

A Scottish architect, designer, water colourist and artist, he was a leading figure in the Art Nouveau movement and the Glasgow School.

Quotes by Charles Rennie Mackintosh

Modern architecture must respect tradition while embracing innovation.

Lecture 1910

The artist must be free to express without constraint.

Essay 1897

In every building, there should be a touch of the poetic.

Interview 1906

Life is too short for ugly buildings.

Witty remark 1908

The soul of a nation is in its architecture.

Speech 1912

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication in design.

Personal reflection 1903

We are all influenced by the rose; it teaches us grace.

Letter 1895

Architecture is the art of building a home for the human spirit.

Lecture 1907

Do not follow trends; create your own path.

Interview 1914

The line is the soul of form.

Essay 1894

In silence, the true beauty of design reveals itself.

Personal reflection 1911

Craftsmen are the unsung heroes of civilization.

Speech 1909

A good chair is a trial on the human form.

Book excerpt 1899

The future belongs to those who honor the past.

Letter 1915

Art without passion is merely decoration.

Interview 1902

Let your work speak; words are for the mediocre.

Witty remark 1905

Nature is the greatest architect.

Lecture 1896

In design, less is often more profound.

Essay 1913

The Scottish spirit lives in bold lines and subtle curves.

Speech 1900

True innovation comes from deep tradition.

Personal reflection 1904