Endless Possibilities
Tradition in architecture can become somewhat of a trap for designers.We walk down the hallowed streets of the city and witness the cool embrace of the towers that surround us. Corridors of glass facade office buildings repeating endlessly down the roads with more and more being added to the end everyday. However, what we design these spaces for has endless possibilities. We can see, the Downtown Athletic Club for example, exploring the opportunities that these monotonous monuments create. Hidden treasures of the multi-story athletic club include the infamous boxing gym/locker room/oyster bar which is strange, true, but shows that innovation and creativity are still possible in these high rise landscapes. Exploration and innovation is not only pushing the creative envelope for architecture. It is able to create an educational moment in its functional uses, theory, and design which can be adapted upon for future use no matter the outcome. Architecture must continue to learn and grow from its predecessor, not endlessly repeat and remain stagnant over time.
I think it is a shame that the architecture of these major cities, especially of those building vertically, have focused solely on the innovation and technology of the building envelope and construction itself, rather than the actual function of the space. As you stated, I feel as if there is a lot of untapped potential in exploring the spatial and functional theories of architecture in these spaces.
ReplyDeleteThe interior spaces of a building often have greater potential for innovation than the exterior and envelope, and it's as or more important to explore this potential. No one standing on the ground can witness a skyscraper in its entirety, but they can experience the spaces within at eye level. This user experience is crucial to keep in mind when designing these monstrosities.
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