The most basic idea behind all of Kahn's buildings is the difference between so-called "served" and "servant" space. As discussed before, Kahn used "plug-in" ideas to isolate "servant" implements (such as elevators, exhaust vents, air ducts, stairwells, etc) from the "served" spaces - the actual used, worked-in and lived-in space. This allowed for more custimizability and the ability to upgrade these implements while keeping the served space relatively free from these kinds of encumberments.

It is also easy to see that his work is characterized by simple, platonic solids, shapes and forms. He also makes use of brick and concrete in abundance which gives buildings a monumental and somewhat industrial feel.

Kahn wrote quite a bit about the use of natural light in his designs. It seems to be one of the most important themes in all of his work, and indeed he writes: "No space, architecturally, is a space unless it has natural light." This idea can be seen prominently in the Kimbell Museum of Art, where the ceilings are formed in such a way that they let bars of light in. from the outside. He even wrote a book about this particular design called "Light is the Theme".

Silence to Light
Light to Silence
The threshold of their crossing
is the Singularity
is Inspiration
(Where the desire to express meets the possible)
is the Sanctuary of Art
is the Treasury of the Shadows
(Material casts shadows shadows belong tot light)
-from Light is the Theme by Louis Kahn