With a capital A

      The following paragraphs are a discussion about chapters 4 and 5 from Kieran and Timberlake's "Refabricating Architecture". Chapter 4 was about how most of industry has moved towards off site modular pre assembly, but how the building industry has lagged behind. Chapter 5 speaks of Architecture, with a noted capital A. The authors refer to Architecture as delivering more for less, but I think it can be interpreted as something different.

      Most everything in the built world has architecture, in a sense. A pair of skis have architecture, and so does a computer processor. Skis can be made to float or to carve, and computer processors are made every day to run machines more powerfully and effectively. Buildings of course, have architecture. They are made to house people, move people, help people learn. They are made to do what we need them to. Even though some buildings may not serve these needs very well, they are built nonetheless. No building was ever built and deemed a success if it does not serve its purpose well, but great buildings do more than just provide an amenity. The difference between architecture and Architecture, in my opinion, is that architecture is built by us, but Architecture builds us.
   
      A work is just architecture when it was never made to be more than what its form dictates. Less impressive buildings are results of designing to fit needs alone. They satisfy a program and building code, but nothing more. When I think of a storage facility, I think of creepy hallways and lots of reflective glare. Given that storage facilities do not lend themselves to being architectural landmarks, it is still impressive to think that I have never seen one that is at least not ugly. They are no more than tools that take the form of available space. They are not designed to do anything more than fulfill a need. It is a given that needs must be met, but it is unfortunate that so many buildings in our world today have fallen victim to the issue of merely satisfying them. 

      "Refabricating Architecture" spoke of refining and streamlining the the design and construction process. It defines Architecture as providing more for less. Sure, we can improve assembly methods, reduce costs and reduce building times, but these things are almost a given in a competitive building marketplace. Truly great pieces of Architecture end up molding and shaping their inhabitants in more ways than we know. They become more than just containers for people and things. They create atmosphere and elicit emotions. A great church inspires awe and humility. A great hospital provides hope and comfort. A great place of learning provides drive and inspiration. Designers give more forethought to our work. We must think more holistically about our buildings, as well as the implications of good and bad design alike. Good Architecture is as much a part of our world and culture as literature and art is. We must strive to make our built environment as much as it can be, because ultimately, it will make us more.

"We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us" - Winston Churchill

Images from:

dgselfstorage.com

fallingwater.org