I don't think all buildings have to be iconic, but the history of the world has shown us that cultures build iconic buildings for their major public buildings.

Frank Gehry’s quote highlights the idea that not every building needs to be iconic, but throughout history, cultures have consistently built iconic buildings for important public structures. He is suggesting that while not all architectural projects require grandeur or distinction, there is a cultural tradition of creating remarkable, easily recognizable buildings to symbolize a society’s values, power, or identity. These iconic structures often become lasting symbols of a civilization or era.

The mention of major public buildings is significant because these are the spaces that represent the public life of a culture—government buildings, monuments, or cultural institutions. Gehry recognizes that these buildings are often designed with the intention to be more than just functional; they are meant to inspire, impress, and reflect the aspirations of the people who create them. Iconic architecture has historically played a role in shaping public perception and contributing to a shared cultural legacy.

Gehry, a renowned architect known for his innovative and often unconventional designs, believes that while not all buildings need to carry the weight of being iconic, there is still an importance in having a few landmark structures that serve as focal points for a city or society. These buildings can reflect the progress, identity, and values of a culture at a specific time, and their design often carries deep symbolic significance.

The origin of this quote lies in Gehry’s philosophy of architecture, where he balances the need for practical, everyday buildings with the potential of design to create lasting cultural monuments. As someone who has designed many iconic structures, such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Gehry’s words reflect both his understanding of architectural history and his role in continuing the tradition of creating transformative, memorable buildings for future generations.