Kitsch Quote by Adolf Loos
““I will not subscribe to the argument that ornament increases the pleasure of the life of a cultivated person, or the argument which covers itself with the words: “But if the ornament is beautiful! ...” To me, and to all the cultivated people, ornament does not increase the pleasures of life. If I want to eat a piece of gingerbread I will choose one that is completely plain and not a piece which represents a baby in arms of a horserider, a piece which is covered over and over with decoration. The man of the fifteenth century would not understand me. But modern people will. The supporter of ornament believes that the urge for simplicity is equivalent to self-denial. No, dear professor from the College of Applied Arts, I am not denying myself! To me, it tastes better this way.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Ornament and Crime, 1908
Loos argues that ornamentation does not enhance life’s pleasure; simplicity is preferred even in everyday items.
In simple terms: Ornament is unnecessary; plain is better.
Key Takeaway
Choose simplicity over decorative excess.
Themes
simplicity
design
aesthetics
modernism
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
design
When to use this quote
- interior design
- product design
- consumer choices
- architectural planning
Key Concepts
functionalism
anti‑ornamentation
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you find beauty in plain objects?
- How does ornament affect perceived value?
A Different Perspective
Simplicity may be perceived as cold or lacking cultural expression.
