All architecture, classical or not, must have some sense of order, and order is much harder to achieve without the straight lines and right angles that have dominated the building art from time immemorial.

In this thoughtful quote, Martin Filler emphasizes the fundamental importance of order in architecture, regardless of whether the style is classical or modern. He suggests that a sense of structure, harmony, and organization is essential for buildings to be coherent and meaningful. The quote underscores that order is a universal architectural principle that transcends aesthetic movements—it is what allows spaces to feel balanced, legible, and intentional.

Filler then points out that achieving this sense of order is significantly more difficult without the aid of straight lines and right angles, which have historically been the dominant tools in the building art. These geometric forms are deeply rooted in architectural tradition, from ancient civilizations to the present day. Their clarity and simplicity make it easier to create proportional systems, align visual elements, and manage construction with precision.

The quote also hints at the challenges faced by architects who choose to move away from these traditional forms. In contemporary or experimental architecture, where curves, organic shapes, and irregular geometries may take precedence, maintaining order becomes a more complex task. Without the guiding logic of orthogonal design, architects must find new ways to establish visual and spatial coherence—a process that often requires advanced design tools and a more nuanced understanding of composition.

Ultimately, Filler’s reflection speaks to the enduring power of geometry in architectural practice. While innovation and stylistic freedom are central to the evolution of the field, the need for order remains constant. Whether expressed through grids, symmetry, or subtler organizational strategies, order is what gives architecture its legibility, functionality, and emotional resonance.