Laugier’s notion of artists’ freedoms came with rules and restrictions since he believed that there is only one way of doing anything well. In order to be led in that right direction, one must have clear principles by which he/she must follow. Essentially, Laugier approved of creative license as long as it stayed true to fundamental laws which exist in every field. Marc-Antoine Laugier believed that architecture was the last uncharted domain for constraints. Architects were only relying on old examples and following undeveloped theories for guidance. He believed it was up to him to take the lead and define the “unchangeable laws” of architecture just like every other science had its base laws established.
Marc-Antoine’s perception on architecture was that it should imitate natural process, and strive to achieve perfection. His hut model demonstrated simplicity. The further architects deviated from this basic model, the further they deviated from true perfection. Marc-Antoine admired the Greeks for they understood the fundemental rules of architecture. He viewed the column, the entablature, and the pediment to be the three essential parts to architecture. So it is apparent why he would perceive the Maison Carree as a thing of beauty since it accentuated on these elements.
To Marc-Antoine Laugier, the essential part of a building was the true source of beauty and any additives introduction paths to error. In his hut model, the piece of upright wood that held the hut up was the most important. The column has derived from that branch through time and established itself as a key element to supporting structure, thus becoming a true figure of beauty. That is why Marc-Antoine shunned upon pilasters since they only provided an elusion of being an essential element and had no right to be perceived as something beautiful.
“Far from criticizing this practice, I am convinced that it will always be successful.” This quote characterizes this man’s ambition and his eternal pursuit of finding the essential laws to architecture.
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