Final answer:
De Botton's phrase 'buildings speak' suggests that the architecture of a building expresses messages regarding its use, the values of its creators, and the culture it represents.
Step-by-step explanation:
When de Botton refers to the phrase "buildings speak," he is alluding to the concept that the design and architecture of a building convey certain messages or narratives about its purpose and the values of the people who built it or inhabit it. This idea is further exemplified in the architectural design of log cabins, which may reflect a desire for simplicity, a connection with nature, or traditional values. Similarly, the Beaubourg, designed by Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano, utilizes deconstruction to make a bold statement about the role of hidden structures, while the Capitol Complex in Bangladesh communicates the aspirations of a new nation through its innovative design. Additionally, the principle of "form follows function" highlights that a building's structure should support its intended use, thus 'speaking' to its functionality. Examples like the subtle use of entasis in Greek architecture infuse buildings with a sense of life and motion, engaging in a visual dialogue with observers.