Clients are selfish
Design, especially when applied towards our built environment,
is not only limited to the design of buildings but also the spaces between the
buildings, the surrounding landscape, vehicular pathways, pedestrian pathways,
and so much more. As architectural designers we ensure the livability or lack
there of from the spaces we create and how we interact with the existing context.
Well designed buildings and spaces are essential to the
surrounding communities and neighborhoods. Whether our designs are good or bad,
will effect community prosperity and environmental resiliency.
Through little design interventions such as, tactical designs
or participatory activities, we can create good placemaking. Without any input form
the communities/neighborhoods that will be affected by our design, we run the
risk of creating a space that will be underutilized and in the worst case
detrimental.
I understand that architecture today is centered around the
clients needs, however, I think the community’s needs are more important. To
create a design that benefits only one person is bad and wasteful design.
This is an interesting take on "architecture for whom," and I would suggest that architects face a battle in the profession of appeasing the paying client and doing what they may consider to be right. Where does the balance fall between these two ideas, if there is one?
ReplyDeleteI think ultimately it also comes down to "who" are clients are as well. There are many projects in which the client sees themselves as a key member involved in the community. Unfortunately for every client who does approach their project this way, I am sure there are probably 10 more who balk at the idea of community involvement. I think it may necessitate a particular integration and requirement to study community impact for every project.
ReplyDeleteConsideration of the client, without losing control, is a tough line to walk as an architect. The client, who is paying for the project, should have contribution and involvement within the design process. Where the contribution ends and the architect's design begins is a blurry line. In some cases, the client can be viewed as a town or city. While a design may be specifically owned and operated by an individual, the design will reside in a location and that must be taken into consideration.
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