I bought a former library, not because I have a lot of books, but also I like architecture, and it was built in 1965, and I like gardening.
The quote "I bought a former library, not because I have a lot of books, but also I like architecture, and it was built in 1965, and I like gardening." by Udo Kier reveals a personal and layered appreciation for space, design, and lifestyle. Kier, a German actor known for his eclectic and avant-garde roles, explains his decision to purchase a former library not solely out of practical necessity, but as a reflection of his broader passions—for architecture and gardening. His choice is not just about function, but about creating a life surrounded by things that inspire and comfort him.
By noting that the building was "built in 1965," Kier highlights his appreciation for a specific architectural era, possibly tied to mid-century modernism, a style characterized by clean lines, openness, and integration with nature. This reveals his sensitivity to architectural heritage and how the character of a structure contributes to the lived experience. Rather than purchasing a modern or conventional home, he chooses a space with history and identity, suggesting a desire for authenticity and atmosphere.
The inclusion of gardening adds another layer to the quote, emphasizing his connection to the natural world and the idea of cultivating beauty both inside and outside the home. This reflects a holistic approach to living—where architecture, landscape, and personal values merge to shape a fulfilling environment. For Kier, it’s not just about owning a space, but about inhabiting a place that nourishes his aesthetic sensibility and everyday joy.
The quote originates from interviews where Udo Kier reflects on his lifestyle and home choices, showing that even for a figure known for dramatic and surreal roles, the quiet beauty of design and nature holds profound meaning. It exemplifies how personal identity can be expressed through the spaces we choose, revealing a love for culture, history, and harmony that goes beyond the surface.
XDTran Hoang Xuan Duyen
This feels like such a unique lifestyle choice—buying a structure not for its original function, but for its aesthetic and historical value. I wonder, is there a growing trend of people reclaiming non-residential buildings as homes? It seems like a creative solution to preserving architectural gems that might otherwise be lost. What are the biggest challenges in adapting a space like that for daily living?
HHhh hh
I love how this quote casually bundles architecture and gardening—two things that often require deep intention. It makes me wonder, what kind of garden complements a 1965 library building? Do you try to echo the era in your landscape design, or is the contrast part of the charm? There’s such a layered story in pairing mid-century design with something as timeless and earthy as a garden.
BNNguyen Hoan Bao Nhi
I relate to this mix of interests—architecture, history, and gardening—but I’m curious, how does one maintain the spirit of a public space like a library in a private setting? Are there design elements you’d keep untouched to honor the building’s past? Or is it more about transforming it completely into something new? The balance between conservation and personalization must be tricky and intriguing.
THnguyen thi huong
Buying a former library as a home is such a fascinating choice. It makes me wonder how the space is repurposed—do the high ceilings or quiet corners inspire new uses beyond what a traditional house might allow? I’d also love to know how the history of a place influences the way someone lives in it. Do you ever feel like you're preserving a legacy or starting a new chapter altogether?
UGUser Google
There’s something so charming and poetic about turning an old library into a home. I’m curious—what is it about architecture from the 1960s that feels so appealing? Was it the design ethos, the materials, or just the sense of space? I’d love to hear more about how someone balances architectural appreciation with personal lifestyle choices like gardening and living in a space with such a distinct past.