For the rational development of the discipline

Summary

Walter Gropius claims the eight essential lessons for the development of architecture in his book <Eight Steps to Solid Architecture (1953)>.

1. Forget the styles and work for better living.

Modern architecture is fundamentally different from old ones, but not in a way of “new style”. It is rearranging everything continuously. Determination of styles and one’s influence is share of scholars. Architects must concentrate on “better living.”

2. Design for life, not for one’s genius.

Creating a memorial to one’s genius does not count; mod-ern convenience counts. It is prevalent to be dependent on one’s ego, but it is totally insolent. We must stop this for the establishment of a commonality of our time.

3. Build as client’s real needs.

The pioneers recognized “living” as the goal of design, and presupposed individual as a part of a whole. It does not mean that we have to accept client’s approaches. We must diagnose their needs correctly and consider a plan overall.

4. Be competent in all parts.

Architects must be trusted by clients in every sense; they must have the right to lead. Leadership and conviction is quality of a good architect.

5. Make better use of science and machine.