Nothing can express the aim and meaning of our work better than the profound words of St. Augustine - 'Beauty is the splendor of Truth.'

The quote from Ludwig Mies van der Rohe references the profound wisdom of St. Augustine, who once said, "Beauty is the splendor of Truth." In this context, Mies van der Rohe suggests that the true purpose of architecture or design lies in its ability to reflect truth and honesty. For Mies, the beauty of a building or work of art is not merely in its aesthetics but in its inherent truthfulness and its capacity to convey something deeper.

The origin of this idea comes from St. Augustine, who believed that beauty was a manifestation of divine truth, a concept that transcended mere visual appeal. Augustine suggested that the experience of beauty is closely linked to a deeper spiritual understanding and the recognition of higher truths. For Mies van der Rohe, this concept applied directly to his architectural work, where he emphasized simplicity, clarity, and honesty in design.

Mies van der Rohe’s philosophy was that architecture should not aim to deceive or manipulate the viewer, but rather present itself in a way that is true to its materials and purpose. By focusing on purity and functionality, the building itself becomes a reflection of a greater truth. This idea of truth in design is central to modernist architecture, where every element of the structure serves a clear and meaningful role.

Ultimately, the quote suggests that beauty in design or art is not just about surface appearance but about revealing something authentic and true. Through this lens, Mies van der Rohe believed that good design should not merely look beautiful but should embody a deeper, more meaningful truth.