Tuesday, November 25, 2008

i'll start...

here's an amazing audio clip where my hero in the world of architecture (David Adjaye) talks about our amazing choice for our next president. (although the full clip is 28 minutes, you only have to listen to the first 5 to hear Adjaye's interview) hearing this is nearly too much for me... my two heroes, somehow now in a world combined by common goals. among the many reasons i love Obama: his plans for an official White House Office of Urban Policy. Adjaye talks about how hopefully an Obama Presidency can bring to light the issues for the need for urban renewal and growth (in a sustainable way) and also change the platform on which so much of design is now driven in this country: Capitalism. thoughtful design is needed in our cities and for all Americans, not just those with deep pockets. 

which brings me to my next David Adjaye article (you won't always hear only about him) from the Washington Post. in the article he is talking about his recent commission to design two new libraries in SE DC (mentioned in the audio clip). this commission has huge implications in the world of architecture. to have someone of Adjaye's stature and world prominence, a "starchitect" if will, choose to design two buildings meant to not be centerpieces of a new urban park, or monuments to his own ego is a huge step towards bringing GOOD DESIGN to the masses. his quote from this article says a lot to me, " good buildings tell people they are not neglected and marginalized, but part of the civic realm." good design can change lives for the better...  it is ultimately why i do what i do... i think Obama and Adjaye could be an all-star team to bring together this common goal for the greater good. 

1 comment:

John Q. said...

And I'll add the first comment...

I think the push to have an office of urban policy will be a good thing too. From a policy perspective, many of the people in that orbit (Bruce Katz at Brookings, Robert Lang at Virginia Tech)are really into the idea of metropolitan policy.

I think that approach is better suited for the kinds of urban areas that have grown up in the Sunbelt. However, it will require a change away from the traditional rural-urban politics. It also may wind up working to the detriment of rural places.