Adolf Loos
Does it follow that the house has nothing in common with art and is architecture not to be included in the arts? Only a very small part of architecture belongs to art: the tomb and the monument. Everything else that fulfils a function is to be excluded from the domain of art.
Adolf LoosAt the beginning of the nineteenth century we abandoned tradition, it's at that point that I intend to renew it because the present is built on the past just as the past was built on the times that went before it.
Adolf LoosThe architect can only achieve this if he establishes a relationship with those buildings which have hitherto created this sentiment in man.
Adolf LoosThe work of art is brought into the world without there being a need for it. The house satisfies a requirement. The work of art is responsible to none; the house is responsible to everyone. The work of art wants to draw people out of their state of comfort.
Adolf LoosThe Potemkin city of which I wish to speak here is none other than our dear Vienna herself.
Adolf LoosThe room has to be comfortable; the house has to look habitable.
Adolf LoosThe house has to serve comfort. The work of art is revolutionary; the house is conservative.
Adolf LoosThe law courts must appear as a threatening gesture toward secret vice. The bank must declare: here your money is secure and well looked after by honest people.
Adolf LoosIt would have been the artist's task to find a new formal language for new materials. Everything else is imitation.
Adolf Loos