It was the drawing that led me to architecture, the search for light and astonishing forms.

Architecture is invention.

Of course, I have given my engineers some headaches over the years, but they go with me. I have always wanted my buildings to be as light as possible, to touch the ground gently, to swoop and soar, and to surprise.

Life is more important than architecture.

I think of myself as no more than 60. What I could do at 60, I can still do now.

In architecture it isn't enough to just have the right building that works well. It can also be beautiful. It can also be different. It can create surprise. And surprise is the main thing in a work of art. [] I like and respect Brasí­lia very much. It is a simple city, a rational one. I always defend the urban design of Brasí­lia

What attracts me are free and sensual curves. The curves we find in mountains, in the waves of the sea, in the body of the woman we love.