Architecture has its own realm. It has a special physical relationship with life. I do not think of it primarily as either a message or symbol, but as an envelope and background for life which goes on in and around it, a sensitive container for the rhythm of footsteps on the floor, for the concentration of work, for the silence of sleep.
Peter ZumthorIf, early on, you know how things are put together, then you can build. The architect is in charge of making - he is not an artist.
Peter ZumthorMy relationship to plants becomes closer and closer. They make me quiet; I like to be in their company.
Peter ZumthorThere is still a real need for good quality architecture, not paper architecture, but the real stuff.
Peter ZumthorDesigning is a matter of concentration. You go deep into what you want to do. It's about intensive research, really. The concentration is warm and intimate and like the fire inside the earth - intense but not distorted. You can go to a place, really feel it in your heart. It's actually a beautiful feeling.
Peter Zumthor