Architecture Quote by Annabelle Selldorf
“Tension is an interesting quality - and architecture must have it. There should be elements of the inexplicable, the mysterious, and the poetic in something that is perfectly rational.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Architecture Talk, Annabelle Selldorf, 2015
Architecture should blend rational structure with mystery, poetry, and the inexplicable to create depth.
In simple terms: Design needs mystery and poetry alongside logic.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the unknown in design.
Themes
architecture
creativity
balance
Mood
inspired
thoughtful
Type
design
philosophical
When to use this quote
- building design
- urban planning
- public spaces
- art installations
Key Concepts
aesthetic theory
design philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can mystery be balanced with usability?
- What elements make a space feel poetic?
A Different Perspective
Too much mystery can hinder functionality.
![“When you identify with an organization and you want to do stuff [but] you get this inexplicable 'no' - a lot of people get off the end and think, Well, God must have said no to me. No! The organization just said no to you. Find what it is that you were made to do and get on it! Go do what you were…” quote by Bob Goff](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e0f/bob-goff-1182_ends_when-you-identify-with-an-organization-a_140468.jpg)
