Louis Kahn: 'A great building must begin with the unmeasurable, must go through measurable means when it is being designed and in the end must be unmeasurable.'

A great building must begin with the unmeasurable, must go through measurable means when it is being designed and in the end must be unmeasurable.

Louis Kahn, a renowned architect, once said, "A great building must begin with the unmeasurable, must go through measurable means when it is being designed and in the end must be unmeasurable." At first glance, this quote may seem perplexing, but upon closer examination, it reveals a profound truth about the essence of architecture. Kahn suggests that while a building is conceived within the unmeasurable realm of imagination and ideas, its creation requires the application of measurable tools and techniques. Yet, in its final form, a truly remarkable building transcends the metrics and becomes something beyond measure.To fully grasp the meaning of Kahn's statement, we must delve into the process of designing and constructing a building. Architecture arises from the boundless realm of creativity, where ideas flow freely and imagination reigns supreme. It is in this unmeasurable realm that architects envision the grand gestures, spatial experiences, and emotional responses they wish to evoke through their structures.However, once these initial visions take shape, architects must employ measurable means to transform their concepts into tangible reality. Practical considerations, such as structural soundness, materials, spatial relationships, and functionality, enter the picture. This phase demands precision, calculation, and adherence to the laws of physics and engineering principles.Yet, despite the need for precision in the measurable aspects of design, it is crucial to remember that architecture transcends mere numbers and calculations. A great building goes beyond its physical dimensions; it elicits emotions, connects with its surroundings, and becomes a living entity that tells a story.Here, an unexpected concept emerges. Let us introduce the idea of phenomenology, a branch of philosophy that emphasizes the subjective experience of reality. Phenomenology investigates the interconnectedness between objects, space, time, and human perception. In the context of architecture, it seeks to understand how our senses and emotions respond to spatial environments.By considering phenomenology, we can compare and contrast it with Kahn's quote. While Kahn's emphasis is on the unmeasurable origin and final outcome of a building, phenomenology focuses on the human experience within those spaces. As architecture moves from the realm of ideas to measurable means, it is important to preserve and enhance the intangible aspects that create a sense of place, belonging, and emotional connection.The juxtaposition between Kahn's quote and phenomenology underscores the importance of striking a balance between the measurable and unmeasurable aspects of architecture. This integration allows buildings to transcend their physicality and become vessels for human experiences, evoking an indescribable sense of awe and wonder.Moreover, this notion challenges the conventional notion that architecture is solely a utilitarian pursuit. Instead, it reframes architecture as a medium through which we can connect with our own emotions, the natural environment, and the collective memory of our shared history.In conclusion, Louis Kahn's quote, "A great building must begin with the unmeasurable, must go through measurable means when it is being designed and in the end must be unmeasurable," highlights the interplay between imagination, practicality, and the intangible aspects of architecture. By exploring the concept of phenomenology alongside this quote, we gain insight into the transformative power of great architecture. Ultimately, a truly remarkable building transcends mere measurements to embody a sense of timelessness and evoke profound emotional responses, leaving an indelible mark on those who experience it.