A gift's value is not in it's wrapping paper

 

Modern architects and modern projects place a large amount of emphasis on building facades and envelopes, treating these exterior faces as if they are the only perspectives anyone will perceive, often leaving building interiors dry and emotionless. Inaki Abalos points out the interior as the “soul” of architecture, and I would have to agree. While building facades might make a splash on ArchDaily or within the highbrow architecture community, building interiors are where most occupant time is truly spent and where designers can have arguably the most impact. Projects like the Exeter Library by Louis Kahn stand out to be because it exactly defies what modern architecture is, instead of a soulless spectacle, it is a brick clad cube hiding unique forms and personal spaces within. After typing out this response, perhaps my partner and I’s  studio project was influenced in a way by Kahn’s library without our direct intent… if you’re familiar with our project you’ll know how I mean: monolithic exterior, unique forms and personal spaces within… not to mention the project is a library. To circle back, architects and designers shouldn’t treat building interiors as an afterthought, because these spaces are those most occupied and provide the most opportunity to make an impact and leave an impression.