Absolute Quote by Thom Mayne
“Architecture is the beginning of something because it's - if you're not involved in first principles, if you're not involved in the absolute, the beginning of that generative process, it's cake decoration.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Architecture Forum, 2019
True design must start from fundamental principles, not superficial decoration.
In simple terms: Design should begin with core ideas, not just looks.
Key Takeaway
Focus on foundational concepts in design.
Themes
design
principles
creativity
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
professional
When to use this quote
- concept development
- design workshops
- client briefings
Key Concepts
architecture
philosophy
systems thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What core principle guides your creative work?
- How do you balance function and form?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on aesthetics can dilute purpose.
![“In the worldly life, due to maadakta (intoxication of the ego of ‘I am Chandubhai’), one has completely lost awareness of everything about one’s self. Everything in the worldly life is nothing but intoxication. The food is intoxicating, the senses are intoxicating. [Therefore] Go to the one, who…” quote by Dada Bhagwan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b3/dada-bhagwan-31_absolute_in-the-worldly-life-due-to-maadakta-into_3662.jpg)
