Soul-searching cities

Modernist design rationalism – here Le Corbusier’s Palace of Assembly, Chandigarh – appropriated religious iconography but emphasised internal architecture rather than effective public space.

Source: Brian & Norman Westwood/RIBA library photographs collection

Modern multicultural cities still need spiritual sanctuaries accessible to all. Architects can best provide these by focusing on enhancing people’s lives rather than so-called iconic buildings.

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