Of all the new buildings that Harvard has planned, surely LeCorbusier's Visual Arts Center holds the most promise of great architectural achievement. The Center will be the first building erected in the United States by one of the finest architects of our time. Now, when Corbusier is at the peak of his powers as a planner and a designer, his contribution to the University architectural setting is eagerly awaited.

Thus, delays in submitting the plans for Corporation approval have been particularly disappointing; and the delay over the winter has apparently been the University's fault. Harvard officials, however, continue to insist that tardiness in approving the drawings will not necessarily mean that the building will not be ready in the fall of 1962.

Yet there is reason to fear that LeCorbusier's first building will not be completed on schedule because preliminary planning has gone askew.

At its last meeting the Corporation withheld approval so that construction estimates could be examined more closely. The President and Fellows found that building estimates far exceeded what they had planned to spend. This second delay is, of course, also disappointing, but the Corporation is wise in holding its approval until it has a fair and reasonable estimate. In view of some of the extravagances and blunders evident in University buildings, it is heartening to have the University concerned with getting a straightforward appraisal and efficient job.

In addition to reviewing estimates, the Corporation will also seek to reduce the cost of the building. Yet, if the Corporation must revise, it should only eliminate construction "extras" and not change LeCorbusier's design.

Harvard has commisisoned LeCorbusier not just to build another functional classroom but to create a work of art with those highly individual touches of sculptured form that are his hallmark.

Consequently, it would be unfortunate--and even outrageous--should the Corporation allow LeCorbusier's projects to be emasculated for budgetary reasons. The University should affirm its willingness to leave the designs of a great artist untouched. If the present appropriation proves insufficient after review of the building estimates, the University should solicit further funds rather than try to cut corners on LeCorbusier's work.

Harvard has an obligation to LeCorbusier, to architecture, and to itself to erect the designer's building as he wanted it.