This quote by architect Daniel Libeskind means that the important elements for the art of designing buildings (architecture) are not mundane things like the raw materials of which buildings are made, but rather, the basis of good architecture is transcendent human emotions like awe and fascination.

According to Libeskind, these emotions and the belief that the future can be better are responsible for creating our greatest cities and spaces.

The quote is from Libeskind’s 2009 TED Talk about how architecture should be bold and inspired.

Watch the full TED Talk here: Daniel Libeskind – 17 Words of Architectural Inspiration.