McMansion Hell

 

“In reality, architecture has become too important to be left to architects. . .therefore all barriers between builders and users must be abolished, so that building and using become two different parts or the same planning process. . .regardless of who conceives it [architecture] and carries it out – [it] is considered architecture.” – De Carlo

    I find this series of statements rather terrifying. These sentiments emerged from valid critiques of how exclusionary and elitist the profession has and can be, but I think the proposed solution swings too far in its imagining of the solution. Architecture is conceived for users, and those users should be involved in our processes, but I do not believe we should be so eager to elevate laypeople to the status of honorary architects. We currently exist in a culture where even the design/implementation process has become commodified entertainment on networks like HGTV. Design has been portrayed as a simple process that requires nothing more than a hammer and a keen eye. Our communities already undervalue our services and our rigorous education, and now it seems like we should debase that knowledge to elevate the user? Can they not be critically involved while we set the constraints? I am very concerned by our proclivity for erecting McMansions in the suburbs and the boom in DIYers aided by YouTube tutorials. These movements (fueled by HGTV and social media) are producing shit when laypeople are left to their own devices. I think I want to be inclusive and responsive, but I’m unwilling to surrender my expertise.

Sourced from McMansion Hell

This was a family friend...bless their heart