"The way of architecture is the quiet voice that underlies it and has guided it from the beginning"
About this Quote
Arthur Erickson's quote, "The way of architecture is the quiet voice that underlies it and has guided it from the beginning", speaks with the extensive and frequently understated essence that informs and directs the field of architecture. In these words, Erickson suggests that the real core of architecture is an enduring, practically imperceptible force that transcends the noticeable and concrete structures. This "quiet voice" can be analyzed as the basic concepts and philosophies that have shaped architectural practices since their creation.
Architecture, in its pure type, is more than simply the creation of structures; it is the embodiment of cultural values, societal needs, technological developments, and creative expression. The "quiet voice" Erickson refers to might represent the intrinsic intricacies of human experience that architecture seeks to address. This includes the need of providing shelter, the desire for beauty, the pursuit of innovation, and the respect for custom and history.
Erickson's use of the term "quiet" underscores the idea that architecture isn't constantly about grand gestures or popular designs. Rather, the most successful architectural works frequently emerge from subtlety and thoughtfulness, harmonizing with their surroundings and enhancing the human experience without overwhelming it. This voice guides designers to consider factors such as context, sustainability, and the emotional impact of an area.
Additionally, the idea that this voice has "directed it from the beginning" highlights the classic nature of these guiding concepts. In spite of progressing styles, technological shifts, and varying cultural contexts throughout history, a constant thread remains. This constancy ensures that architecture continues to serve its necessary function: to develop spaces that resonate on a human level.
In essence, Erickson highlights the delicate balance designers need to preserve between innovation and classic principles, emphasizing that attention to this "peaceful voice" is what ultimately specifies and enhances the constructed environment.
