Architects Dictums
An architect dictum is a statement of opinion or belief of a person in designing buildings or structures. If you are a student or like knowing this kind of information then take the quiz. Enjoy.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
“Form follows beauty.”
- A.
SAARINEN, EERO
- B.
PERRET, AUGUSTE
- C.
NIEMEYER, OSCAR
Correct Answer
C. NIEMEYER, OSCARExplanation
This statement suggests that Oscar Niemeyer believes that the design of a form should be influenced by its aesthetic appeal. In other words, the beauty of a structure should dictate its shape and design. This aligns with Niemeyer's architectural style, which is known for its sleek and curvilinear forms that often prioritize visual harmony and elegance.Rate this question:
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- 2.
“Less is more.”
- A.
NERVI, PIER LUIGI
- B.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
- C.
MAILLART , ROBERT
Correct Answer
B. LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHEExplanation
The phrase "Less is more" is often associated with Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a renowned architect and designer. This principle emphasizes the idea that simplicity and minimalism can have a greater impact and create a stronger aesthetic. Mies van der Rohe's architectural style was characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and a focus on functionality. He believed in stripping away unnecessary ornamentation and letting the essential elements speak for themselves. This phrase has since become a motto for many designers and artists who embrace the concept of simplicity and understated elegance in their work.Rate this question:
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- 3.
“The house is a Machine to live in.”
- A.
LE CORBUSIER
- B.
KORUKAWA, KUSHO
- C.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
Correct Answer
A. LE CORBUSIERExplanation
Le Corbusier is the correct answer because he is the architect who famously stated that "The house is a Machine to live in." This quote reflects his belief in functionalism and the idea that architecture should prioritize efficiency and practicality. Le Corbusier's designs often incorporated modern materials and technologies, and he aimed to create spaces that were both comfortable and efficient for the inhabitants. His ideas had a significant influence on modern architecture and urban planning.Rate this question:
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- 4.
“Architecture is the art of how to waste space ”
- A.
GROPIUS, WALTER
- B.
JOHNSON, PHILIP CORTELYOU
- C.
ALVAR, AALTO
Correct Answer
B. JOHNSON, PHILIP CORTELYOU -
- 5.
“Supply and demand regulate architecture form”
- A.
GROPIUS, WALTER
- B.
LE CORBUSIER
- C.
LOOS , ADOLF
Correct Answer
C. LOOS , ADOLFExplanation
Adolf Loos believed that architecture should be determined by the functional needs of the users rather than being influenced by decorative or ornamental elements. He emphasized simplicity and practicality in design, rejecting unnecessary embellishments. This approach aligns with the idea that supply and demand, or the functional requirements of a building, should dictate its form. Loos' architectural philosophy contrasts with the ideas of Gropius and Le Corbusier, who were both proponents of modernist architecture but had different approaches to design.Rate this question:
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- 6.
"Art and Architecture, the new unity"
- A.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT
- B.
WALTER GROPIUS
- C.
FRANK GEHRY
Correct Answer
B. WALTER GROPIUSExplanation
Walter Gropius is the correct answer because he was a prominent architect and founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany. The phrase "Art and Architecture, the new unity" refers to the principles of the Bauhaus, which aimed to unite art and architecture in a functional and modern way. Gropius played a key role in promoting this concept and his work greatly influenced the development of modern architecture.Rate this question:
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- 7.
"Modern Architecture need not to be Western."
- A.
LE CORB
- B.
KENZO TANGE
- C.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT
Correct Answer
B. KENZO TANGEExplanation
Kenzo Tange is the correct answer because he was a Japanese architect who played a significant role in the development of modern architecture in Japan. He incorporated traditional Japanese design elements into his work, demonstrating that modern architecture does not have to be limited to Western influences. Tange's designs, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, showcase his ability to blend modernity with cultural context, proving that modern architecture can be diverse and inclusive.Rate this question:
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- 8.
"All architects want to live beyond their deaths."
- A.
PHILLIP JOHNSON
- B.
EERO SAARINEN
- C.
WALTER GROPUIS
Correct Answer
A. PHILLIP JOHNSONExplanation
Phillip Johnson is the correct answer because he is known for his desire to leave a lasting impact through his architectural designs. He believed that architecture should have a timeless quality and that architects should strive to create buildings that would be remembered long after their deaths. This aligns with the statement given in the question, which suggests that all architects share this desire to leave a lasting legacy.Rate this question:
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- 9.
"Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood."
- A.
WALTER GROPUIS
- B.
KENZO TANGE
- C.
DANIEL BURNHAM
Correct Answer
C. DANIEL BURNHAMExplanation
Daniel Burnham is the correct answer because he is the one who originally said the quote, "Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood." This quote emphasizes the importance of ambitious and grand plans, suggesting that smaller plans lack the ability to inspire and motivate people. Burnham was an influential American architect and urban planner, known for his work on the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago and his contributions to the development of modern city planning.Rate this question:
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- 10.
"Architecture must meet three requirements; strength , beauty and unity."
- A.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT
- B.
MARCUS VITRUVIUS POCIO
- C.
EERO SAARINEN
Correct Answer
B. MARCUS VITRUVIUS POCIOExplanation
Marcus Vitruvius Pollio was a Roman architect and engineer who lived during the 1st century BC. He is known for his work "De architectura," which outlined the principles of architecture. In this work, he stated that architecture should have three essential qualities: firmitas (strength), utilitas (functionality), and venustas (beauty). These principles have influenced architectural theory and practice throughout history. Therefore, the given quote aligns with the ideas of Marcus Vitruvius Pollio and his belief that architecture must meet the requirements of strength, beauty, and unity.Rate this question:
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- 11.
“Architecture is invention.”
- A.
SAARINEN, EERO
- B.
PERRET, AUGUSTE
- C.
NIEMEYER, OSCAR
Correct Answer
C. NIEMEYER, OSCARExplanation
Niemeyer, Oscar is the correct answer because he is known for his innovative and groundbreaking architectural designs. He was a Brazilian architect who played a major role in the development of modern architecture. His designs were characterized by their organic forms and the use of reinforced concrete. Niemeyer's work was considered inventive and he was highly influential in shaping the field of architecture. Both Saarinen, Eero and Perret, Auguste were also renowned architects, but they are not specifically associated with the concept of architecture as invention.Rate this question:
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- 12.
“Architecture is the will of an epoch translated into space.”
- A.
LATROBE , BENJAMIN H.
- B.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
- C.
MAILLART , ROBERT
Correct Answer
B. LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHEExplanation
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was a renowned architect known for his modernist designs and his famous quote "Architecture is the will of an epoch translated into space" reflects his belief that architecture is a reflection of the values, aspirations, and spirit of a particular time period. This means that architecture is not just about creating functional spaces, but also about capturing the essence of the era in which it is built. Mies van der Rohe's statement emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural, social, and political context in order to create meaningful and relevant architectural designs.Rate this question:
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- 13.
“Architecture begins where engineering ends”
- A.
LOOS , ADOLF
- B.
BREUER, MARCEL LAJOS
- C.
GROPIUS, WALTER
Correct Answer
C. GROPIUS, WALTERExplanation
The quote "Architecture begins where engineering ends" is attributed to Walter Gropius. This statement suggests that architecture goes beyond the technical aspects of engineering and encompasses the artistic and creative elements of design. Gropius, as the founder of the Bauhaus school, emphasized the integration of art, craft, and technology in architecture, highlighting the importance of aesthetics and the overall experience of a building. This quote reflects Gropius' belief that architecture should not be limited to functional considerations but should also strive to create meaningful and inspiring spaces.Rate this question:
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- 14.
“Architecture seizes upon space, encompasses space and is space itself.”
- A.
MENDELSOHN, ERICH
- B.
NERVI, PIER LUIGI
- C.
SAARINEN, ELIEL
Correct Answer
A. MENDELSOHN, ERICHExplanation
This statement suggests that architecture is not just a physical structure, but it also has a profound impact on the space it occupies and becomes an integral part of it. Mendelsohn, being an architect, is likely to have made this statement as a reflection of his belief in the transformative power of architecture.Rate this question:
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- 15.
“Form does not necessarily follow function.”
- A.
WRIGHT, FRANK LLOYD
- B.
GAUDI, ANTONIO
- C.
SAARINEN, ELIEL
Correct Answer
B. GAUDI, ANTONIOExplanation
Gaudi, Antonio is the correct answer because his architectural style is known for its intricate and ornate designs that prioritize aesthetics over practicality. Unlike the other two architects listed, Gaudi's buildings often feature unique shapes, vibrant colors, and detailed decorations that may not always serve a specific functional purpose. This statement suggests that Gaudi's work challenges the idea that form should always be dictated by function in architecture.Rate this question:
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- 16.
“Architecture starts when you carefully put two bricks together. There it begins.”
- A.
NIEMEYER, OSCAR
- B.
NERVI, PIER LUIGI
- C.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
Correct Answer
C. LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHEExplanation
This quote suggests that architecture begins with the careful assembly of two bricks. It implies that the essence of architecture lies in the thoughtful arrangement and construction of even the smallest elements. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a renowned architect known for his minimalist and modernist designs, is often associated with this philosophy of architecture. His emphasis on simplicity and the importance of every detail aligns with the idea expressed in the quote.Rate this question:
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- 17.
“Cube within a cube.”
- A.
LOOS , ADOLF
- B.
LE CORBUSIER
- C.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
Correct Answer
B. LE CORBUSIERExplanation
The phrase "Cube within a cube" is a concept often associated with the architect Le Corbusier. It refers to his design principle of creating buildings with a modular, geometric form, where smaller cubes are nested within larger cubes. This approach can be seen in many of Le Corbusier's iconic works, such as the Villa Savoye and the Unité d'Habitation. The other architects mentioned, Loos and Mies van der Rohe, were also influential in the modernist movement, but they are not specifically known for the "cube within a cube" concept.Rate this question:
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- 18.
“Truth is indispensible to Architecture & architectural lie concepts.”
- A.
PERRET, AUGUSTE
- B.
NIEMEYER, OSCAR
- C.
LE CORBUSIER
Correct Answer
A. PERRET, AUGUSTEExplanation
Auguste Perret believed that truth is essential to architecture, while also recognizing the importance of architectural lies or concepts. This suggests that he valued honesty and authenticity in architectural design, but also acknowledged the need for creativity and innovation in the field. Perret's approach to architecture likely involved a balance between truth and artistic expression, resulting in designs that were both functional and visually appealing.Rate this question:
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- 19.
“Every great architect is –necessarily- a great poet. He must be a great original interpreter of his time, his day, his age.”
- A.
WRIGHT, FRANK LLOYD
- B.
GAUDI, ANTONIO
- C.
SULLIVAN, LOUIS
Correct Answer
A. WRIGHT, FRANK LLOYDExplanation
Frank Lloyd Wright is the correct answer because the quote suggests that a great architect must also be a great poet and interpreter of their time. Wright was known for his innovative and original designs that were influenced by nature and the surrounding environment. He was able to create buildings that not only functioned well but also harmonized with their surroundings, making him a great interpreter of his time and age. Therefore, based on the given quote, Wright fits the description of a great architect who is also a great poet and interpreter.Rate this question:
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- 20.
“Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will not die.”
- A.
BURNHAM, DANIEL
- B.
MAILLART, ROBERT
- C.
NERVI, PIER LUIGI
Correct Answer
A. BURNHAM, DANIEL -
- 21.
“Architecture starts when you carefully put two bricks together. There it begins.”
- A.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
- B.
POCIO, MARCUS VITRUVIUS
- C.
JOHNSON, PHILIP CORTELYOU
Correct Answer
A. LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHEExplanation
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe is the correct answer because he is the architect who made the statement about architecture starting when two bricks are carefully put together. This quote highlights Mies van der Rohe's belief in the importance of attention to detail and the fundamental building blocks of architecture.Rate this question:
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- 22.
“A bldg. is the combination of different geometric figures.”
- A.
MENDELSOHN, ERICH
- B.
GROPIUS, WALTER
- C.
LATROBE , BENJAMIN H.
Correct Answer
C. LATROBE , BENJAMIN H.Explanation
The question states that "A bldg. is the combination of different geometric figures." Out of the three options given, Benjamin H. Latrobe is the most relevant because he was an architect known for his work in designing and constructing buildings, including the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. His expertise in combining different geometric figures in architectural design makes him the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 23.
“Architecture is a social art.”
- A.
BREUER, MARCEL LAJOS
- B.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
- C.
SAARINEN, EERO
Correct Answer
A. BREUER, MARCEL LAJOSExplanation
The correct answer is BREUER, MARCEL LAJOS. This is because Marcel Breuer was an architect known for his innovative designs and his belief that architecture is a social art. He believed that architecture should be responsive to the needs of society and should enhance the human experience. His work often incorporated elements of functionality and simplicity, and he was a key figure in the development of modernist architecture.Rate this question:
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- 24.
“Form follows function- that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.”
- A.
WRIGHT, FRANK LLOYD
- B.
NIEMEYER, OSCAR
- C.
LUDWIG, MIES VAN DER ROHE
Correct Answer
A. WRIGHT, FRANK LLOYDExplanation
This quote suggests that Frank Lloyd Wright believed that form and function should be inseparable and work together harmoniously. He believed that the design and appearance of a building should not be separate from its purpose and function, but rather should be integrated in a way that creates a spiritual connection. This approach to architecture emphasizes the importance of the overall aesthetic and experience of a space, rather than simply focusing on its practicality or utilitarian aspects.Rate this question:
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- 25.
“Nature & Architecture are two different things.”
- A.
BREUER, MARCEL LAJOS
- B.
LE CORBUSIER
- C.
MENDELSOHN, ERICH
Correct Answer
A. BREUER, MARCEL LAJOSExplanation
The correct answer is BREUER, MARCEL LAJOS. This is because the question states that "Nature & Architecture are two different things," implying that there is a distinction between the two. Marcel Breuer, known for his modernist architectural designs, often integrated natural elements into his designs, blurring the boundaries between nature and architecture. Therefore, he can be seen as someone who challenges the notion that nature and architecture are separate entities.Rate this question:
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- 26.
"A house is like a flower pot."
- A.
Richard Josef Neutra
- B.
Eero Saarinen
- C.
Alvar Aalto
Correct Answer
A. Richard Josef NeutraExplanation
Richard Josef Neutra is the correct answer because he is the architect who made the statement comparing a house to a flower pot. His philosophy was that a house should be an organic and harmonious part of its environment, much like a flower pot is a vessel that nurtures and supports the growth of a plant. Neutra believed in creating homes that seamlessly integrated with nature and provided a sense of balance and tranquility.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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