CREATIVITY VS
ACADEMIC
Time was the architect as the only
person to engage with when planning to build. However, with the changing times,
i.e. sustainable design, renewable energy, seismic design, soil design,
concrete design, lighting design, design/build, etc., it has become more and
more apparent that designers are special and are specializing in a specific
field of construction as demand is growing with consumer awareness. In the past
architects did most everything including light planning. Today, light design
experts are in cultural demand, engaging in creating solutions. Good design and
low energy will no longer be an oxymoron. Experience and memory will be
recognized design values. Cost has been a key driver, other factors such as
risk, energy use, and the cost of maintenance now drive solutions.
Knowledge (book smart) may be what is
necessary for an architect to achieve his degree, but without hands-on building
skills, he lacks an important part of an architectural education.
There becomes a disconnect between
drawing something and building it. Hands-on experience cannot be taught in a
classroom or with a computer. Design improves with lessons learned the hard way
thru every façade of the construction industry. Today, the design/build
evolution has proven to be the leading choice for a good design with follow
thru and is an amazing industry producing amazing results. Knowing engineering
also gives an added edge to a well designed project. Today, a licensed
structural engineer is required for most plans designed by an architect. This
leaves the architect or designer to only create the set of plans and provide
city plan services. Other design experts are required energy codes, geology,
mechanical and electrical . . . to mention a few. Not all architects or
designers are created equal. Being a book smart and like to draw is one thing,
to have a license is another. But to be a “right-brainer” has proven a
God-given talent gives a good quality design and is definitely recognized. The
left hemisphere of our brain is associated with analyzing details, performing
mechanical calculations and more engineering part of our thinking. The right
hemisphere is the synthesizer, seeing the “big picture” and is creative part of
our intellect. Creative thinkers (right-brainers) will be how design will rule
the future. High-concept and high-touch aptitudes are moving from the periphery
of our lives to the center. Design has permeated every aspect of life and the
psychology of consumer. Preferences drives creative design.
It may not be “political correct” to
ask a designer if he or she is left-handed, but what is the difference asking
if licensed!
Perhaps, what is needed is the
eastern concept of Shoshihn, translated as “beginner’s mind”. An attitude of
openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying subject, even
when studying at an advanced level, just as a beginner in that subject would.
The best artist practi9ce Shoshihn without knowing the term.
A good designer will be yours rather
than only being solicited and appreciated by a knowing elite.
