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About this quote

What does it mean?
The aesthetic and historical value of a great space outweighs physical convenience.
In plain terms
Beauty matters more than having nice bathroom nearby.
What can you take from it?
Prioritize experience over convenience in design choices.

Where it applies

  • building design
  • travel
  • historical sites

Putting it to work

  • value atmosphere over amenities
  • choose inspiring spaces

Questions to consider

  • When is discomfort acceptable?
  • What defines a great space?

Another view

Basic comfort is often necessary for accessibility.

More from Philip Johnson

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  2. Architecture is surely not the design of space, certainly not the massing or organization of volumes. These are ancillary to the main point, which is the organ…

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  3. The duty of the artist is to strain against the bonds of the existing style.

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