It was a long time coming but better late than never, we say: architect Le Corbusier’s works will be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For those who aren’t familiar with the French titan of design, Le Corbusier (whose real name is Charles-Edouard Jeanneret-Gris) was a pioneer of the Modern Movement. His works have more than just an artistic impact; Le Corbusier was also influential in the domain of urban planning, and was dedicated to providing better living conditions in crowded cities.

One need only look to the Indian city of Chandigarh for an example of his works, or to his French masterpieces like the La Cite Radieuse housing project in Marseille. With an emphasis on functionality, bold lines and materials of concrete, iron and glass, the chosen creations exemplify Le Corbusier’s contributions to modern architecture.

Seventeen of his projects were classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which they span across seven countries – France, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany, Argentina, Japan and India. Testament to his global impact and his unfaltering belief in dreaming big, the grand master is finally recognized for his efforts.