A Better World Through Architecture

Architect Wes Jones argues that architecture is "an argument for a better world". But the general public doesn't understand how. Neither do most architects, writes Christopher Hume.

1 minute read

January 26, 2009, 10:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg


"A building isn't just a building, declares the Los Angeles architect, author and academic, but an argument for the better world that has yet to be created, a proposal, suggestion, or model."

"But architecture is also an economic and bureaucratic exercise, subject to the pressures of time, money and rules as much as gravity and climate."

"'Architecture constitutes most of the environment we live in,' Jones points out. 'Architecture gains its right to impose on us by accepting this responsibility.'"

"But, he adds, 'North American culture isn't attuned to the possibilities of what architecture can do.' Alas, neither are many North American architects."

Friday, January 23, 2009 in The Toronto Star

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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