A notion of freedom in Le Corbusier’s architecture

Abstract

This paper begins with a basic premise: in architecture, real freedom means inventing one’s own rules. It then considers the thinking of the modern architect who probably embodies this tenet best: Le Corbusier. Freedom in the sense of being unfettered by academic norms, as a principle of legality for modern projects, and as the basis and subject of the free plan complete an analysis that focuses on the nature of the architectural project whilst looking further afield in search of a common denominator in the execution of artistic practice. The paper ends by presenting a notion of disciplined freedom far removed from the absolute subjectivity and simplicity of a theoretical practice of architecture bereft of rules or constraint.

Keywords

• free plan
• game
• licence
• improvisation
• composition