Hello Kendal
The wording in the opening of your posted request infers a limit on what architects do to making "buildings and spaces” for “clients". I would gently and respectfully remind you that architects must always present themselves as "experts of aesthetics". If we, as architects, are going to influence people's lives, why limit our expressive endeavors to buildings, spaces and working for clients? I can cite historic examples where architects distinguished themselves as photographers, graphics designers, potters, furniture designers, city planners, stage set designers, textile designers, water colorists, curators, educators, inventors, communicators... the list goes on and on. While I agree that the Architect must be seen as Master Builder, why limit the product of our profession to buildings and spaces?
I am writing to you here only in support of what I understand it is that you are setting out to do. You are hitting on important stuff for our SPP committee which, by the way, does an excellent job to ensure that AIA keeps a broad perspective by recognizing the small scale gesture with its stunning Small Project Awards.
Karl Friedrich Schinkel, the 19th century German architect, is known for designing a bridge, a stage set for an opera, garden benches, the Iron Cross military medal, all seen among dozens of buildings and spaces with vast cultural significance. Eileen Grey designed a great glass table. Michelangelo designed uniforms for the Swiss Guard. We are all sitting on chairs from Charles and Ray Eames. All these examples exhibit how we architects must spread out and work in small scale ways to influence people's lives, beyond limiting ourselves to only "buildings and spaces”.
Tom
Original Message------
I'm looking for articles, books, videos, documentaries, any kind of resource that will help shed light on the myriad ways that our buildings and spaces can positively impact and shape how we (as in humanity) live, work, worship, and play. I'm trying to broaden and deepen my understanding of how the work we do as architects can enrich and enhance our clients' lives. This encompasses a broad range of potential topics including physical and psychological health, the performance of individuals and groups, and beyond. I'd love to get your recommendations.
Kendal W. Perkins
Architect, AIA, MBA
Apex Architectural Services, LLC
Natchitoches, LA