The first principle of architectural beauty is that the essential lines of a construction be determined by a perfect appropriateness to its use.
Gustave EiffelRead
Ah, bien je prétends que les courbes des quatre areêtes du monument, telles que le calcul les a fournies, donneront une grand impression de force et de beauté._x000D_ _x000D_ Well, I think the curves of the four pillars of the monument, as the calculations have provided them, give it a great sense of force and beauty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the interplay of mathematical precision and aesthetic beauty in design.
Gustave Eiffel emphasizes that the curves of the pillars in his monument are not just a result of artistic vision, but are also grounded in precise calculations. This blend of strength and beauty reflects the idea that great architecture marries functionality with aesthetic appeal, showcasing how science and art can coexist harmoniously.
Themes
ArchitectureBeautyDesignEngineeringMathematics
In practice
Example use cases
In a presentation about architectural design, to illustrate the importance of both beauty and strength in structures.
More from Gustave Eiffel
All quotes →It seems to me that it had no other rationale than to show that we are not simply the country of entertainers, but also that of engineers and builders called from across the world to build bridges, viaducts, stations and major monuments of modern industry, the Eiffel Tower deserves to be treated with consideration.
Gustave EiffelRead
Can one think that because we are engineers, beauty does not preoccupy us or that we do not try to build beautiful, as well as solid and long lasting structures? Aren't the genuine functions of strength always in keeping with unwritten conditions of harmony? ... Besides, there is an attraction, a special charm in the colossal to which ordinary theories of art do not apply.
Gustave EiffelRead
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