Le Corbusier

Le Corbusier, born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris on October 6, 1887, in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and passing away on August 27, 1965, in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, was an architect, urban planner, designer, painter, and writer. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern architecture.

Born into a family of watchmaking artisans, Le Corbusier began his studies at the School of Art in La Chaux-de-Fonds, where he trained in engraving and enameling. Under the influence of his teacher Charles L’Eplattenier, he shifted his focus to architecture. His travels across Europe, particularly to Italy, Germany, and France, significantly enriched his architectural and artistic vision.

In 1917, he settled in Paris and adopted the pseudonym "Le Corbusier" in 1920. Along with painter Amédée Ozenfant, he founded the Purist movement, advocating for aesthetic simplicity and functionality. Le Corbusier developed groundbreaking architectural theories, emphasizing standardization, the use of modern materials such as reinforced concrete, and the design of modern living spaces.

Some of his most iconic works include the Villa Savoye in Poissy, the Unité d'Habitation in Marseille, and the Notre-Dame-du-Haut Chapel in Ronchamp. He was also responsible for designing the master plan for the city of Chandigarh in India, reflecting his vision of modern urban planning.