Architecture as a tool of power: Through their form, scale, and symbolism, monumental buildings set the stage for political power. The exhibition sheds light on this questionable tradition based on Le Corbusier’s designs and visions. 

Architecture and power have always felt a mutual attraction. Monumental buildings make power visible and consolidate its representation. In return, architects receive major commissions and fame while enjoying the long-term impact of their designs. Throughout history, this symbiosis has produced imposing buildings that are at times frightening to behold. Intimidating dimensions, monumental axes, and the formal language of antiquity are typical means employed in the architecture of power.

Le Corbusier (1887–1965) pursued major commissions throughout his life. His urban visions are by turns fascinating and disturbing. Especially in the interwar period, he proposed projects whose architecture signaled the aim to reorganize society—while in his search for potential clients he repeatedly failed to maintain a critical distance from fascism. Le Corbusier thus embraced a controversial architectural tradition that still resonates today.

Supported by

«Antrieb war Brändle die in den letzten Jahren nicht enden wollende Kritik am Architekten. In Büchern und Artikeln warf man ihm vor, ein Faschist und Nazi gewesen zu sein. In Zürich verweigerte man ihm aus diesem Grund einen nach ihm benannten Platz. Nun kann Brändle ein differenzierteres Bild präsentieren.» 

NZZ am Sonntag, 19.04.2026

«Die Schau untersucht die enge, teils beunruhigende Beziehung zwischen Architekt*innen und politischen Strukturen und macht sichtbar, wie eng Entwurf, Ideologie und politische Ordnung miteinander verflochten sind. Anhand ausgewählter Projekte zeigt sie, wie Architektur Macht räumlich übersetzt, Ordnung formt und legitimiert.»

Swiss Arc Mag, 20.04.2026

The audio tour explains the facts and background to the building and its significance in Le Corbusier's work in 18 stations.