January 2001

The practice and profession of architecture have changed drastically over the last century. In today's society, architecture is perceived more like a luxury than a necessity. Where as twenty years ago, we were amongst the highest paid professionals, today architects are amid the lowest. This alone could create a concern, yet it is only one of the many realities of the state of architecture today. For example: Why would one never see a 'medical technician' instead of a doctor, yet have no problem building a house consulting an 'architectural technician' rather than an architect? There seems to be a clear need to promote architecture back to the public.

For me a thesis project is about asking a question and proposing an answer. It is more about a process than a product. Having no clear idea of a site or a program, I have instead isolated an area of concern. This I see as a need to promote and advertise architecture. However, this can only be properly done by understanding the state of the profession today, both theoretically and practically. I hope to eventually develop a program that can respond to this, perhaps developing a new building type to best serve my needs.