Harry Seidler Quotes

Powerful Harry Seidler for Daily Growth

About Harry Seidler

Harry Seidler (1923-2006), an influential Australian architect of Austrian Jewish descent, was born on July 19, 1923, in Vienna, Austria. His parents, Hans and Hilda Seidler, were both architects who designed the renowned Israelitische Kultusgemeinde Wien (IKG) synagogue in Vienna before fleeing Nazi persecution in 1938. The young Harry was profoundly influenced by the modernist architecture movement, which thrived in Austria during his formative years. In 1938, the Seidler family immigrated to Australia and settled in Sydney. After completing his education at Fort Street High School, Harry began working as a draftsman for his father's architectural firm. He later studied architecture at the University of Sydney, graduating with first-class honors in 1948. In 1950, Seidler founded his own practice, Harry Seidler & Associates (HS&A), which went on to become one of Australia's most prolific and acclaimed architectural firms. Throughout his career, Seidler designed over 500 buildings across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. His works are characterized by their dynamic forms, innovative use of materials, and seamless integration with their surroundings. Some of Seidler's most notable projects include the Australia Square Tower in Sydney (1967), the National Gallery of Victoria Extension in Melbourne (1968-1979), the Westpac Bank Building in Sydney (1982), and the International Broadcasting Centre for the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Harry Seidler's contributions to architecture were widely recognized. He received numerous awards, including the Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal and an Officer of the Order of Australia. His influence continues to shape the built environment of Australia and beyond, with his buildings remaining iconic landmarks in many cities.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Architecture is not just about buildings; it's about how we live."

Harry Seidler's quote emphasizes that architecture transcends merely constructing structures; it significantly impacts our way of life. The design and planning of spaces influence our daily routines, social interactions, emotions, and overall quality of life. Architecture is not only a physical representation but also a reflection of the culture, values, and aspirations of a society. Hence, architects hold a critical role in shaping the human experience within built environments.

"Good design is good business."

The quote "Good design is good business" by Harry Seidler emphasizes that investing in quality, functional, and aesthetically pleasing designs is beneficial for a company's success. Well-designed products or spaces not only attract customers but also increase their satisfaction and loyalty, ultimately contributing to the growth and profitability of the business. In other words, good design is an essential tool for creating a successful and sustainable enterprise in today's competitive market.

"The best architectural design happens when there's a strong connection between the building and its environment."

This quote emphasizes the importance of creating architecture that harmoniously integrates with its surrounding environment. A successful architectural design, according to Harry Seidler, is one where the building not only stands as an individual entity but also enhances and complements the natural or man-made landscape in which it resides. It suggests a deep understanding and respect for context, where the architecture becomes part of a larger whole, enriching both itself and its surroundings, thereby promoting a symbiotic relationship between built form and environment.

"I think that architecture should always be trying to find something new, should always be exploring new frontiers."

This quote by Harry Seidler emphasizes the need for innovation and exploration in the field of architecture. He encourages architects to constantly push boundaries, challenge traditional norms, and seek novel solutions for design problems. By striving to find something new, architects can contribute to the advancement of their profession and create buildings that reflect contemporary ideas and technologies. This approach fosters a dynamic, forward-thinking industry that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of society.

"In my experience, you can create truly innovative and original designs only if you are not overly concerned with what others will say or think about your work."

This quote emphasizes that genuine innovation and originality in design can be achieved when the creator is not excessively preoccupied with the opinions of others. Seidler suggests that fear of criticism or conforming to societal expectations may hinder the creative process, as it can limit one's ability to explore unique and unconventional ideas. By focusing on their own vision, designers can push boundaries and make significant contributions to their respective fields.

After World War II great strides were made in modern Japanese architecture, not only in advanced technology, allowing earthquake resistant tall buildings, but expressing and infusing characteristics of traditional Japanese architecture in modern buildings.

- Harry Seidler

Advanced, Resistant, Earthquake

From the early days of European migration to America, in the 17th Century, the prototype of buildings was based on English precedent, even if mostly translated into the locally available material in abundance: timber.

- Harry Seidler

Based, Early Days, Mostly, Locally

Borne out of this, starting around the 17th Century was the Baroque era. It is my view that it is one of the architectural peak periods in western civilisation.

- Harry Seidler

Peak, Baroque, Borne, Civilisation

Architecture is not an inspirational business, it's a rational procedure to do sensible and hopefully beautiful things; that's all.

- Harry Seidler

Business, Architecture, Sensible

The Romans were not inventors of the supporting arch, but its extended use in vaults and intersecting barrel shapes and domes is theirs.

- Harry Seidler

Architecture, Barrel, Romans, Supporting

Japan's humid and warm summer climate, as well as frequent earthquakes resulted in lightweight timber buildings raised off the ground that are resistant to earth tremors.

- Harry Seidler

Japan, Resulted, Frequent, Lightweight

The government only makes restrictive rules, they don't show you what to do so you know, OK, here's where we need this many apartments, with open space, playgrounds, kindergartens.

- Harry Seidler

Need, Here, Makes, Open Space

Fifty years ago people were talking about Sydney's sprawl, but nobody does anything about it.

- Harry Seidler

Fifty, Talking, About, Sydney

After about the first Millennium, Italy was the cradle of Romanesque architecture, which spread throughout Europe, much of it extending the structural daring with minimal visual elaboration.

- Harry Seidler

Cradle, About, Which, Structural

I've always thought Blues Point Tower is one of my best buildings and I stand by that.

- Harry Seidler

Thought, Buildings, Always, Blues

The form language used by the ancient Egyptians in their structures is minimal.

- Harry Seidler

Form, Egyptians, Structures, Minimal

At the age of 80, I'm becoming a visual artist. This could be my rebirth.

- Harry Seidler

Artist, Becoming, Could, Rebirth

Good design doesn't date.

- Harry Seidler

Good, Design, Date

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