In my own work, I'd say I'm a classicist, but I look everywhere for my solutions. I don't study the toilet-living habits of my clients, although that's a popular approach. First, I think of every building in history that has been similar in purpose. Then I think of the functional program - that's a major part of the study.

The future of architecture is culture.

I like the thought that what we are to do on this earth is embellish it for its greater beauty, so that oncoming generations can look back to the shapes we leave here and get the same thrill that I get in looking back at theirs - at the Parthenon, at Chartres Cathedral.

I hate vacations. If you can build buildings, why sit on the beach?

I call myself a traditionalist, although I have fought against tradition all my life.

Houston is undoubtedly my showcase city. I saved all my best buildings for Houston.

There's no worse feeling than seeing my buildings and realizing the mistakes.