DESIGN FOR GOOD

 

Honestly, I had never heard about the rural studio. But after reading "The Rural Studio”, by Samuel Mockbee; it gave me new ambitions and responsibility as a future architect which I would like to continue to act out in my profession.

We have already studied the importance of user participation in the design process in the previous readings and discussions. The users are more appreciative of the efforts and the entire process if they are involved, even if they are not always delighted with the final result. But going beyond that, I really liked that how Mockbee considers architects have the capability to use their practice to solve societal problems like inequality and poverty.

Furthermore, the insight that the use of sustainability in design is not only good for the environment but it is a way to strengthen communities both economically and culturally is incredible! Last but not least, I am grateful that I had the opportunity to go to Charleston for the community build project, and therefore I realize that hands-on experience really helps students to grow in all aspects. Working in teams helped me to learn how to work in collaboration. Also, I got to learn woodshop and steel shop skills. I think, when you have hands-on experience, you develop empathy towards the users, your teammates, and also for the labors working on the project! The conclusion is, that incorporating hands-on experience in education and practice is an amazing idea and it helps in infinite ways.