Mies van der Rohe

Architecture German-American 1886 – 1969 94 quotes

A German-American architect, he was one of the pioneers of modern architecture, known for his minimalist designs and the aphorism 'less is more'.

Quotes by Mies van der Rohe

Architecture should speak for itself.

Lecture 1956

The true work of art is born from the artist: a spontaneous, instinctive expression of sensibility.

Writing 1930

The column is the starting point of architecture.

Speech 1951

Life is too short to build ugly buildings.

Witty remark

The essence of architecture is structure.

Essay 1947

We create spaces for human experience.

Lecture 1959

Materials must be used honestly.

Interview 1963

The building must be a living thing.

Writing 1925

Architecture is frozen music.

Attributed

I strive for clarity in design.

Speech 1952

The future of architecture is in steel and glass.

Essay 1937

Every detail matters in the grand design.

Professional observation 1964

Architecture reflects the spirit of the age.

Lecture 1928

Simplicity requires courage.

Interview 1955