Philip Johnson Quotes

Architect
USA
1906

Philip Johnson (1906-2005) was an American architect known for his influential and diverse body of work. He was a pioneer of modern architecture and played a significant role in shaping the architectural landscape of the 20th century.Johnson studied at Harvard University and worked with renowned architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Marcel Breuer. He is best known for his Glass House, a transparent structure that became a symbol of modern architecture. Other notable works include the Seagram Building in New York City, the AT&T Building in New York City, and the Crystal Cathedral in California.Johnson’s style evolved throughout his career, from modernism to postmodernism, and he was known for his ability to blend different architectural styles. He also had a passion for architectural education and wrote several books on the subject.In addition to his architectural achievements, Johnson was also a curator, critic, and historian, and played a significant role in promoting modern architecture in the United States. He received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field of architecture, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1979.Overall, Philip Johnson’s legacy continues to inspire and influence architects around the world, and his works remain iconic examples of modern and postmodern architecture.Read Less

8 Top Philip Johnson Quotes

Don’t build a glass house if you’re worried about saving money on heating. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Glasses, House, Saving, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

There’s no worse feeling than seeing my buildings and realizing the mistakes. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Feelings, Mistake, Realizing, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

Architecture is basically the design of interiors, the art of organizing interior space. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Art, Design, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

Art
Design

Early unsuccessess shouldn’t bother anybody because it happens to absolutely everybody. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Bother, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

Bother

I wouldn’t build a building if it wasn’t of interest to me as a potential work of art. Why should I? Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Art, Building, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

Art
Building

So now the floodgates are open to the delight of pure form, whatever its origin. Anything goes. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Anything Goes, Delight, Form, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

Houston is undoubtedly my showcase city. I saved all my best buildings for Houston. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Building, Cities, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

In our universal experience unintelligent material processes do not create life Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Philip Johnson, Materials, Process, Scary, 0

- Philip Johnson

Architect

· USA

Philip Johnson Career Highlights

Johnson’s career began in 1928 when he joined the architecture department of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City. He worked closely with Alfred H. Barr Jr., the museum’s director, and was exposed to the works of European modernists such as Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe.
In 1930, Johnson co-authored the book “The International Style: Architecture Since 1922” with Henry-Russell Hitchcock, which became a defining text for modern architecture in the United States.
In 1932, Johnson opened his own architectural practice in New York City and designed his first major project, the modernist Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut. This project became one of his most iconic works and a symbol of modern architecture.
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Johnson designed numerous residential and commercial buildings, including the Rockefeller Guest House in New York City and the Seagram Building in collaboration with Mies van der Rohe.
In the 1950s, Johnson shifted his focus to postmodern architecture, which combined elements of modernism with historical references and decorative elements. His notable postmodern works include the AT&T Building in New York City and the PPG Place in Pittsburgh.
Johnson continued to work on various projects until his death in 2005, including the Crystal Cathedral in California and the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, which was his last major project.

Key Contributions by Philip Johnson

Johnson played a crucial role in introducing modern architecture to the United States through his work and writings. He was one of the first American architects to embrace the modernist movement and promote its principles.
His collaboration with Mies van der Rohe on the Seagram Building is considered a significant contribution to modern architecture in the United States. The building’s sleek design and use of glass and steel set a new standard for skyscraper design.
Johnson’s postmodern works, such as the AT&T Building, had a significant impact on the architectural landscape of the 1980s and 1990s. His use of historical references and decorative elements challenged the strict modernist principles and opened up new possibilities for architectural expression.
Johnson’s Glass House is not only a masterpiece of modern architecture but also a symbol of his personal style and philosophy. The house’s transparency and simplicity reflect Johnson’s belief in the importance of openness and honesty in design.

What Sets Philip Johnson Apart

Johnson’s ability to adapt and evolve with the changing architectural trends sets him apart from his contemporaries. He was not afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques, which allowed him to stay relevant and influential throughout his career.
His close relationship with the art world, particularly with MoMA, also sets him apart. Johnson’s exposure to modern art and his understanding of its principles greatly influenced his architectural designs.
Johnson’s charisma and charm also played a significant role in his success. He was known for his impeccable taste, wit, and social skills, which helped him build strong relationships with clients and collaborators.

Takeaways

Philip Johnson’s career highlights the importance of being open to new ideas and constantly evolving as an architect.
His contributions to modern and postmodern architecture have had a lasting impact on the architectural landscape of the United States.
Johnson’s ability to bridge the gap between art and architecture serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of different forms of art and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.
His legacy continues to inspire and influence architects and designers around the world, making him one of the most significant figures in modern architecture.

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