Community-based Architecture and Spatial Justice

The debate over spatial justice and the practice of architecture, in my opinion, is merely a question of morals.  Unfortunately, we have been conditioned to think that architecture of equality and social worth can only happen with broke clients and broke commissions.  I do not believe this to be the case.

 For example I offer the work of William Huber, Architect in Marion, VA – who happens to be my father.  Bill has taken on architecture as a community centered vocation and takes pride in enriching the local built environment.  Albeit a rural context, he has taken on many projects in downtown Marion acting as architect, developer, and owner.  These projects range from historic theater and hotel renovations, streetscape projects, numerous apartment and public housing initiatives, a farmer’s market pavilion, and many more – all for standard commissions (I should note).

 I would argue that his work takes a democratic approach to spatial justice, focusing on civic projects that are accessible to a diverse community, many of whom live below the poverty line.  Even if the unique project is not specifically accessible to the all, the entire community still benefits from an enriched downtown space that they can take pride in.

 One of the latest examples of this approach is his work on the Wayne C. Henderson School of Appalachian Arts – a historical renovation of an early twentieth-century schoolhouse that was set for demolition.  The building has since been repurposed as a public education facility for the indigenous arts of Appalachia.  Without Bill’s moral and civic responsibility, the project never would have happened.  He helped the town of Marion source valuable historic preservation tax credits from the state, rallied interest in other community members, and helped propose a program that hinges on spatial justice, accessibility, and cultural enrichment.  Oh, and by the way he was paid a standard commission for his work.

 As architects it is our job to envision a better future and to negotiate a path to achieving that outcome.  However, we have a choice in the projects we choose, the partners we choose, and the values we apply to our work.  Bill Huber is deeply rooted in the local community and really cares about the future of the place.  I think spatial justice is a big part of his work, though he probably does not use the term.  This perspective and approach is one of moral intention and has little to do with the client’s pockets and architect’s fee.  In fact I would argue that much of his continued success is due to the fact that he really cares about the community and people take notice.