The concept of an "architect" is one of the oldest professions in the world. Whereas, some professions, such as a "lawyer", have their roots in Latin, "Archi - tecton" is actually a Greek word, and much older. Just knowing how old the profession is gives me hope that we will still exist for years to come, even if we are changing.
Santiago CalatravaThe architect is not only the director, but he is the composer. And, as a composer, the architect brings a sense of creativity to each building.
Santiago CalatravaFor me, architecture is an art the same as painting is an art or sculpture is an art. Yet, architecture moves a step beyond painting and sculpture because it is more than using materials. Architecture responds to functional outputs and environmental factors. Yet, fundamentally, it is important for me to stress the art in architecture to bring harmony.
Santiago CalatravaVitruvius, the great writer, architect and engineer, identified in his famous treatise on Architecture that the three values essential to any work of Architecture were: firmitas, utilitas, and venustas; or firmness, utility, and delight. Firmness meaning well built, solid and resistant; utility meaning useful and functional, and delight meaning beautiful.
Santiago Calatrava