Architect
The Main Tower/Commerce Court West
One of I.M. Pei’s most celebrated creations, Commerce Court West is more vital and relevant than ever. Its brilliant imperial stainless steel exterior, wide-open functional floors and large public spaces continue to inspire.
The energy and beauty of Pei’s vision can be seen in the building’s bold, modern lines, but also in the many details that demonstrate his genius for space and his appreciation for the human element in architecture.
I believe architecture is a pragmatic art. To become art it must be built on a foundation of necessity.
Ieoh Ming (I.M.) Pei, now in his late 90s, is regarded as the last master of high-modernist architecture. Born in Canton, China and educated in the United States at M.I.T. and Harvard University, Pei and his firm Pei Cobb Freed and Partners changed the face of architecture and in the process, many of the world’s most prominent cities. The recipient of numerous international awards over his career, Pei was awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1983. He is recognized for his great concern with function over theory, understanding that buildings must be designed for the practical needs of today and the unknown potential of the future.
Some of I.M. Pei’s other celebrated projects:
- Musee d’Art Moderne, Luxembourg
- Bank of China Tower, Hong Kong
- The Pyramid, The Louvre, Paris
