Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris (Le Corbusier)
- Born:
- October 6, 1887, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland
- Died:
- August 27, 1965, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
- Nationality:
- Swiss-French
- Profession(s):
- Architect, Designer, Painter, Urban Planner, Writer
Early Life and Education
- Began training as an engraver and watchmaker.
- Studied art at La Chaux-de-Fonds Art School.
- Travelled extensively in Europe, studying architecture and learning from leading architects like Peter Behrens.
- Early influences included Art Nouveau and the Deutscher Werkbund.
Career and Major Achievements
- Pioneered the Modernist movement in architecture.
- Developed architectural concepts such as the "Five Points of Architecture."
- Founded the Congrès International d'Architecture Moderne (CIAM).
- Published influential architectural treatises, including a book closely linked to his philosophy; reading the title 'verso un'architettura le corbusier biography' gives insight into his approach.
- Designed numerous iconic buildings and urban planning projects.
Notable Works
- Villa Savoye, Poissy, France
- Unité d'Habitation, Marseille, France
- Chapel of Notre Dame du Haut, Ronchamp, France
- Palace of Assembly, Chandigarh, India
- Villa La Roche-Jeanneret, Paris, France
Publications
- Vers une architecture (Towards a New Architecture), 1923
- Urbanisme, 1925
- La Ville Radieuse, 1933
- Quand les cathédrales étaient blanches, 1937
Legacy and Impact
Le Corbusier's innovative designs and urban planning theories profoundly influenced architecture and urbanism in the 20th century and continue to be studied and debated today. His work sparked both widespread admiration and criticism, solidifying his position as a central figure in modern architectural discourse.