Why Le Corbusier’s 5 Points of Architecture Continue to Inspire Modern Designers

 

 

Le Corbusier’s contributions to architecture are immense. His Five Points of Architecture introduced concepts that are still shaping modern design today. 

From clean lines to large windows and adaptable spaces, his ideas remain as relevant as ever. Though nearly 100 years old, these principles continue to inspire. Let’s look more closely at them and understand why they still resonate.

 

 

1. Pilotis: Lifting Buildings Off the Ground

Le Corbusier revolutionised building design by raising structures on stilts, or pilotis. This approach freed up space at ground level, improving airflow and protecting against flooding.

Today, many modern buildings in urban environments use stilts to create extra room for parking or gardens. This innovation reflects Le Corbusier’s forward-thinking strategy to make the best use of limited space in cities.

 

2. Flat Roofs: Beyond Basic Shelter

Le Corbusier saw flat roofs not just as a top cover but as usable outdoor spaces. He envisioned these areas being used for gardens, terraces, or additional living space.

In today's urban architecture, flat roofs serve a similar purpose. They are often transformed into green roofs, rooftop terraces, or communal spaces. 

These areas contribute to both function and sustainability, reducing energy consumption while providing a high-quality living experience. This demonstrates how Le Corbusier’s ideas continue to influence modern building practices.

 

3. Free Floor Plans: Adapting to Modern Living

Le Corbusier opposed rigid interiors. He developed free floor plans that allowed for adaptable, open spaces. Removing the need for load-bearing walls gave architects more freedom to design flexible layouts.

Today, open-concept layouts are a hallmark of modern homes and offices, offering versatility to suit different lifestyles and work needs. This flexibility aligns with the form follows function principle, where clean lines and minimalist designs make spaces more functional and appealing.

4. Horizontal Windows: Maximising Natural Light

Le Corbusier believed in the importance of natural light and designed his buildings with long, horizontal windows to maximise it. These windows stretched across entire walls, ensuring interiors were bathed in daylight.

Modern architects have embraced this idea, incorporating large glass windows in their designs. These windows not only create bright and airy spaces but also help reduce the need for artificial lighting. By bringing in more daylight, they enhance the interior design of modern buildings and improve energy efficiency.

 

5. Free Facades: Creative Exteriors

Le Corbusier championed the idea that the exterior of a building should not be restricted by its structure. He developed free facades, giving architects the ability to design exteriors without the limitations of load-bearing walls.

Today, architects experiment with materials, colours, and textures to create unique, eye-catching facades. This freedom to innovate is a direct continuation of Le Corbusier’s vision. His influence on architectural styles is still visible in the bold, modern designs we see in cities around the world.

The Importance of Le Corbusier’s Architectural Colours

Le Corbusier wasn’t just interested in form and structure—he also paid careful attention to colour. He created a palette of 63 architectural colours designed to complement the mood and atmosphere of his buildings. These colours were carefully selected to work in harmony with his design aesthetic, creating spaces that feel balanced and calm.

The role of colour in architecture is crucial. It influences how we experience and interact with spaces. Le Corbusier’s use of colour wasn’t purely decorative; it was a core element of his design style, helping to shape the emotional experience of those who inhabit his buildings. Today, architects still use this palette to create environments that are both functional and beautiful.

Why Le Corbusier’s Ideas Still Work

Le Corbusier’s ideas were ahead of their time, and they continue to inspire architects today. His Five Points of Architecture addressed real-world problems while also creating beautiful, functional spaces. 

Architects now face similar challenges to those Le Corbusier encountered—how to accommodate more people in cities, improve energy efficiency, and design spaces that are both adaptable and sustainable.

The focus on high-quality materials, large windows for natural light, and flexible layouts that can evolve with changing needs highlights the enduring relevance of his work. Whether it’s the use of pilotis to create extra space, or flat roofs that double as communal areas, Le Corbusier’s principles continue to guide modern architecture.

His emphasis on functionality, simplicity, and beauty remains a key influence on architectural design today. Le Corbusier’s timeless ideas continue to shape buildings that are not only innovative but also harmonious and sustainable.