Shigeru Ban, but in Alabama

Who is the Architect? When attempting to view architecture from the perspective of an outsider, it is easy to curate an image in your mind of what this role may presume. Urban cities, landmarks, and extravagant, flashy designs effortlessly paint the picture. When a young child dreams of becoming an architect, these are the wishes they hope to fulfil. I want to discuss what I would define as the "mirror image" of these notions. The term "mirror image" is not synonymous with bad architecture by any means. It is rooted within the belief system that there is an entirely beautiful, rich, amazing architecture that goes on beyond the typical dreams of the public. This is the Rural Studio.

Beyond the preconceived notions of architecture, there are countless demonstrations of amazingly overlooked programs. The Rural Studio's slogan: "Educating Citizen Architects", is just that. Seemingly hovering below grand public perception, these projects are fulfilling while incorporating tight budgets, harsh climates, and real people. I find the conception of the Hale County Animal Shelter as a work of art buried under the unnecessary news of lesser architecture. I believe that Rural Studio, often steering from the superfluous in many instances, is thus past on as the lesser known sidekick in architecture, but is absolutely deserving of their very overdue credit.