My projects have typically taken a long time to complete. Buildings might take on average about five to seven years to finish,… — I. M. Pei Accepted Copy Share Image
When I got the opportunity to do the new wing [the Schauhaus] for the German Historical Museum, for instance, I didn't see… — I. M. Pei Accepted Copy Share Image
I believe that architecture is a pragmatic art. To become art it must be built on a foundation of necessity. — I. M. Pei Architecture Copy Share Image
Qatar does not have much history, it's a new emirate. So I couldn't draw on the history of the country; its history… — I. M. Pei Architecture Copy Share Image
I didn't want to think about a project that I couldn't finish. That's a kind of temptation. One has to realize one's… — I. M. Pei Kids Copy Share Image
Contemporary architects tend to impose modernity on something. There is a certain concern for history but it’s not very deep. I understand… — I. M. Pei Architect Copy Share Image
You cannot defend your design without knowing what you're designing for. — I. M. Pei Design Copy Share Image
I was born in Suzhou, a city not very far from Shanghai. It's a very interesting town - there is a long… — I. M. Pei Art Copy Share Image
Architecture is the very mirror of life.You only have to cast your eyes on buildings to feel the presence of the past,… — I. M. Pei Architecture Copy Share Image
I've been active all my life. In 1990 I retired from my firm, I.M. Pei & Partners, and for two years I… — I. M. Pei Active Copy Share Image
At home, I have a wife, fortunately, and my children are all grown, and I have many grandchildren. I spend weekends with… — I. M. Pei Adore Copy Share Image
I haven't taken any new projects in the past years - I told myself, if I cannot live long enough to finish… — I. M. Pei Enough Copy Share Image
François Mitterrand was a student of architecture, he had done a lot of research before he called me. He said, "You did… — I. M. Pei Architecture Copy Share Image
It is not an individual act, architecture. You have to consider your client. Only out of that can you produce great architecture.… — I. M. Pei Abstract Copy Share Image
I cannot work and listen to Wagner at the same time, nor Mahler, nor Beethoven's late quartets. I enjoy listening to Chopin's… — I. M. Pei Enjoy Copy Share Image
Many of the projects I'm most proud of are tall buildings, especially the housing projects. In New York I have two: one… — I. M. Pei Building Copy Share Image
At the beginning, I thought the best Islamic work was in Spain - the mosque in Cordoba, the Alhambra in Granada. But… — I. M. Pei Architecture Copy Share Image
On a daily basis, my home life is very simple. I spend about 2 hours every morning reading the newspaper. As my… — I. M. Pei Assistants Copy Share Image
I know something about the civilization of China, with my background, obviously, and I think I know something about American history. But… — I. M. Pei American history Copy Share Image
I want to bring out the best in a community and contribute something of permanent value. — I. M. Pei Community Copy Share Image
