Helmut Jahn Quotes

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Helmut Jahn

Profession : Architect

Birth : January 4, 1940

Most architects say: I want to use this type of glass, even if it's too reflective or doesn't let enough light in. However, the use of a certain type of glass might change the comfort level.

Helmut Jahn

Sometimes I have to accept a job I don't really want. Hardly anybody comes up to you with a commission; it's all competitions these days.

Helmut Jahn

The architecture profession has lost a lot of its integrity, especially in the USA. The general architect here has no scruples, no ambitions.

Helmut Jahn

Transparency is not the same as looking straight through a building: it's not just a physical idea, it's also an intellectual one.

Helmut Jahn

We prefer synthetic rather than natural materials. Natural products are almost too valuable. Wood is much harder to produce than metal. And metal is recyclable, while wood isn't.

Helmut Jahn

We want our buildings to work like a machine that will create a pleasurable environment.

Helmut Jahn

When I came to America in the '60s, it was the place to be. I wonder if I'd come here today.

Helmut Jahn

When I think of some of my earlier work, it really seems a fortunate coincidence that I succeeded.

Helmut Jahn

You don't know what the Chinese expect in the way of beauty. The presentation is just a farce. You come into a room filled with 50 people and they don't talk to you. There's very little interaction.

Helmut Jahn

I'm ashamed to be German.

Helmut Jahn

Success on one project does not necessarily mean success in the next project. You've got to be prepared in everything you do.

Helmut Jahn

When I work, I work very hard. When I don't work, I have to do something where my endeavor can totally take me off what I do professionally, like sailing. It takes all your attention.

Helmut Jahn

I find if my body feels well and I exercise regularly, I think better, work better and feel better.

Helmut Jahn

I don't consider myself a star or a celebrity. I'm a simple guy who works a lot.

Helmut Jahn

I'm just a nice and easy person.

Helmut Jahn

I used to buy nice clothes and drive a nice car when I couldn't afford it. But I spent all my money doing it, and now I don't have to. I like nice things. I like to travel in a certain style. I like to live in a nice place.

Helmut Jahn

Working is actually a pleasure. It's just very time-consuming. It's a way of life. I find that I can work when I travel and work when I run. There is nothing like, on a rainy day, to work.

Helmut Jahn

IBM has a very solid business image.

Helmut Jahn

I think there will be a 200-story skyscraper someday. However, it will require a developer who will not think in conventional terms and for whom economic restraints won't apply.

Helmut Jahn