Approach Quote by Rem Koolhaas
“There are essentially two possibilities. One is to be, shall we say, an average architect and do the same thing everywhere. The other is to let yourself be inspired and even changed by the unique qualities of the place where you're building. We always try to take the second approach.”
About This Quote
Design should respond to a site's unique character, not repeat generic solutions.
In simple terms: Let place inspire design.
Key Takeaway
Adapt design to context.
Themes
architecture
contextual design
inspiration
Mood
inspired
practical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- building projects
- renovations
Key Concepts
site specificity
creative adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you persuade stakeholders to embrace site‑specific ideas?
- What aspects of a place spark your creativity?
A Different Perspective
Clients may demand standardized designs.
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![“The beauty of my profession [architecture] lies in its randomness and surprise. And don't think I can choose my projects. I have to build what's offered to me.” quote by Rem Koolhaas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/712/rem-koolhaas-5371_architecture_the-beauty-of-my-profession-architecture_97486.jpg)
![“Nigeria [in 1990] was all rumour, an unbelievable amount of rumour - largely about crime and almost mythical manifestations of evil.” quote by Rem Koolhaas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/72f/rem-koolhaas-5371_amount_nigeria-in-1990-was-all-rumour-an-unbeli_125862.jpg)
