Fantasy architecture seemed like a good idea for mid-summer reading when we first considered the idea of a theme issue toward the end of spring. Then we got these two letters to the editor. (Incidentally, we don’t typically get letters that say: “Swell job, keep it up!” But these were particularly pugnacious.)
"I wonder why space should be given in your magazine for 'fantasy architecture' when there is so much real architecture out there that does not get published. I love to look at graphic art, such as the drawing shown in AIArchitect, as much as the next person. However, don't we oversimplify the highest form of art when we ignore the complexity of combining aesthetics, science, politics, and finance required to create Architecture—'art to live in'? My personal opinion is that an unbuilt project may be a great piece of art, but does not deserve to be called Architecture."
—Boyd McAllister, AIA, partner
VCBO Architecture, Salt Lake City
"What a stupid waste of my membership money and your time. We are not in college any more!"
—George Dove, FAIA, managing principal
WDG Architecture, Washington, D.C.
Okay, but I remember once asking a firm principal years ago about his exemplary record of volunteering to sit on university crit juries: “Do you bring real-world issues into your criticism, such as buildability and universal accessibility?”
“Of course not,” he said. “Those are things I deal with every day. I do the crits because I want to have fun.”
Well, after having worked on this issue, the entire AIArchitect team agreed, this was fun. And, more than that, it was interesting, informative, and also practical because it does open up trains of thought that very possibly could have real application.
What do you think?
Comments (3)
Architecture is a creative activity and serious business it is both the science and art of building and the mental exercise of "fantasy architecture" which is always, even if never revealed, a step in the process, it is very healthy exercise for the mind and a great deal of fun.
That said, I like many other architects who manage small practices would love to indulge in the fun, and create "fantasy architecture" then publish same in AIArchitect and elsewhere. But there are always bills to pay, and clients waiting. I am busy with real projects, and consumed with the work in hand.
But I do see an opportunity here. Creating "fantasy architecture" is something I would love to do if there was just some venue for it. So I think your potentially onto something good.
Posted by Terry L. Walker, AIA | July 27, 2007 12:43 PM
Posted on July 27, 2007 12:43
Seems like a nice departure from ADA toilet stall details...
Posted by Frederick T. Wawra, AIA | July 30, 2007 9:39 AM
Posted on July 30, 2007 09:39
I don't think I would like to work for the managing prinipal who said that "fantasy architecture" is a waste of time and money and "we are not in college any more!"...What a curmudgeon!
As for the partner who said anything unbuilt should not be be called architecture; while cranking out the sterile boxes that so many clients demand and are willing to pay for, I have created many drawings of "fantasy" buildings, and someday I hope to build based on the ideas that have evolved. So is this process not architecture? or only if I succeed?
I hope you do this theme again and that I can submit next time.
Posted by Douglas Boldt | August 10, 2007 2:29 PM
Posted on August 10, 2007 14:29