Le Corbusier

Date of Birth: October 6, 1887

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: August 27, 1965

Biography

Le Corbusier, born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, was a Swiss-French architect, designer, painter, urban planner, writer, and one of the pioneers of what is now called modern architecture. He was born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and later became a French citizen in 1930. Le Corbusier’s career spanned five decades, during which he created some of the most iconic structures of the 20th century. His design philosophy emphasized functionality and simplicity, and he was instrumental in the development of the International Style of architecture. Some of his most famous works include the Villa Savoye in France, the Unité d’Habitation in Marseille, and the city of Chandigarh in India. Le Corbusier was also a prolific writer and theorist, publishing numerous books and articles that have influenced generations of architects. His ideas about urban planning and building design were revolutionary, advocating for the use of modern materials like steel and concrete and for the incorporation of green spaces in urban environments. Throughout his life, he received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to architecture and design.

5 Interesting Facts about Le Corbusier

1. Le Corbusier was not only an architect but also a painter; he co-founded the Purism movement in painting with artist Amédée Ozenfant.

2. He designed furniture that remains iconic, including the LC4 Chaise Longue, which is still in production today.

3. Le Corbusier was a key figure in the Congrès International d’Architecture Moderne (CIAM), which aimed to promote modern architecture and urban planning.

4. He spent much of his career advocating for the “Radiant City,” a utopian concept for urban living that emphasized high-rise residential blocks surrounded by green spaces.

5. Le Corbusier tragically drowned while swimming in the Mediterranean Sea near his home in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Le Corbusier

1. “The home should be the treasure chest of living.”

2. “Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent, of forms assembled in the light.”

3. “A house is a machine for living in.”

4. “To create architecture is to put in order. Put what in order? Function and objects.”

5. “Space and light and order. Those are the things that men need just as much as they need bread or a place to sleep.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Le Corbusier’s exact net worth at the peak of his career is not well-documented, but his influence and the value of his works have made him one of the most iconic architects in history.