Architecture of the Community

Throughout my eight years of architectural education I have understandably come a long way in terms of the meaning of what we do as architects. In school we want to focus our attention so much on designs that "look cool", demonstrate our specific stylistic tastes of that moment, and ultimately to design a more beautiful building that our peers.

Throughout the past three years here at Clemson University and at work with LS3P, I have realized the importance of the practicality and reality of architecture. This is not to say that creativity is any less important, but that being able to relate to our client, understand what is achievable by contractors and engineers (versus just saying, "it can be done") is just as important. 

Jacobs tells us that none of the beauty matters if we are unable to perceive a sense of community with your neighbors, visitors, and passers-by. That is what we are seeking to achieve with our comprehensive studio project: a design which can be realized by the design+construction teams, and most importantly, the end users.

Seattle Public Library - A place FOR the community.