The first principle of architectural beauty is that the essential lines of a construction be determined by a perfect appropriateness to its use.
Interpretation
Architectural beauty should reflect the purpose of the structure.
Gustave Eiffel emphasizes that the beauty of architecture is inherently linked to its functionality. The design should not only be aesthetically pleasing but must also serve its intended purpose effectively, with every line and form chosen to enhance its usability. This principle underlines the importance of harmony between form and function in creating structures that are both beautiful and practical.
In practice
Using this quote in a presentation about architectural design principles.
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.
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.
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.
White... is not a mere absence of colour; it is a shining and affirmative thing, as fierce as red, as definite as black... God paints in many colours; but He never paints so gorgeously, I had almost said so gaudily, as when He paints in white.
For me the true business of photography is to capture a bit of reality (whatever that is) on film...if, later, the reality means something to someone else, so much the better.
I do not aspire to be in fashion. For what is in fashion, goes out of fashion _x000D_ If, on the contrary, your work is contested today, it doesn't matter. _x000D_ For when it is finally understood, it will be for eternity.
I had to get my camera to register things that were more important than how poor they were--their pride, their strength, their spirit.
Whatever your style or subject matter, in the end, film-making is about searching for authenticity - that is what the audience will divine.
Sometimes I sound like gravel, and sometimes I sound like coffee and cream.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.