And when an architect has designed a house with large windows, which is a necessity today in order to pull the daylight into these very deep houses, then curtains come to play a big role in architecture.

The quote "And when an architect has designed a house with large windows, which is a necessity today in order to pull the daylight into these very deep houses, then curtains come to play a big role in architecture." by Arne Jacobsen highlights the often-overlooked relationship between interior elements and architectural design. Jacobsen, a renowned Danish architect and designer, was a pioneer of modernist architecture and functional aesthetics. In this statement, he draws attention to how curtains, typically considered a decorative or functional accessory, become an integral part of the architectural experience, especially in homes with large windows designed to maximize natural light.

Jacobsen refers to the modern architectural trend of deep-plan houses, where rooms stretch far from exterior walls, making it crucial to bring in daylight through expansive windows. These large windows not only serve a practical function but also influence the mood, ambience, and privacy of interior spaces. Once such openings are introduced into the design, curtains gain architectural significance—they control light, shape atmosphere, and contribute to the visual rhythm of the space.

What Jacobsen underscores here is a holistic view of architecture and design, where every element, from structure to textiles, plays a role in shaping the user’s experience. As a designer known for creating everything from buildings to furniture and fixtures, Jacobsen believed in the unity of design, where details like curtains were not afterthoughts, but part of the architectural narrative. In this context, soft furnishings interact dynamically with the built form, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic cohesion.

Ultimately, Jacobsen’s quote reminds us that architecture doesn’t end with walls, windows, or roofs—it extends to how spaces are lived in, filtered, and framed. By elevating something as commonplace as curtains to a key architectural feature, he champions a more integrated and thoughtful approach to design—one where every component serves a purpose and contributes to the overall spatial experience.