In simple terms, the quote suggests that architecture is a sophisticated discipline where forms are meticulously arranged in spaces filled with light. It highlights the importance of design and form within architectural creation, emphasizing how structures interact with natural light to enhance their aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Digging deeper into this statement, Le Corbusier implies that architecture transcends mere construction; it is an intellectual pursuit rooted in artistic principles. The phrase "learned game" indicates that architectural design requires knowledge and skill, much like a chess match or any other strategic endeavor. By mentioning the importance of light, he underscores the dynamic interplay between built structures and their natural environment. Light not only illuminates but also defines space, altering perceptions as it moves throughout the day. This highlights how architects must consider the ever-changing quality of light when designing buildings to achieve a sense of magnificence that is both correct in its technical execution and beautiful in its visual impact.
Le Corbusier, one of the most influential figures in 20th-century architecture, was born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris in Switzerland. Known for his innovative designs and writings on urban planning, he helped shape modern architectural theory and practice with works like Villa Savoye and the Unité d'Habitation. His philosophy emphasized functionalism and a return to basics in design principles, which is reflected in his view of architecture as an interplay between form and light.
