Proportions are what makes the old Greek temples classic in their beauty. They are like huge blocks, from which the air has been literally hewn out between the columns.
The quote highlights the importance of proportions in creating timeless beauty, using ancient Greek temples as an example. It emphasizes the role of negative space in creating a sense of harmony and balance.
The quote suggests that the absence of unnecessary elements, or the 'air hewn out' between columns, is what makes the temples beautiful. It implies that simplicity and restraint can lead to a more elegant and harmonious design.
The quote is likely referencing the classical Greek architectural style, which emphasized simplicity, proportion, and harmony. The quote may also be drawing parallels between the beauty of ancient Greek temples and the principles of modernist design.
Arne Jacobsen was a Danish architect and designer who was known for his modernist and functionalist designs. He was a prominent figure in the development of modern Danish design and was influenced by the principles of functionalism and minimalism.
The quote's emphasis on simplicity and restraint can be applied to various design fields, such as architecture, product design, and graphic design. It encourages designers to focus on the essential elements and eliminate unnecessary details.