Architecture That Appeals

For us, architecture is above all an art in the background. At least it is in good hands there—it does not have to keep pushing itself forward. But there are exceptions, where it can be crazy and egotistical, in Times Square, in the center of New York.

Many architects are intoxicated with their belief in sincerity, in honest buildings that are only what they pretend to be. But there is also honest ornament, building decoration that is employed quite deliberately to give the building meaning. What is hypocritical about that?

by Robert Venturi