Why Are Modern Buildings Soulless?

Our towns and cities face a noticeable issue that many residents can sense. The exteriors of the majority of new constructions tend to be uninspiring, lacking vibrancy and character. With only a handful of exceptions, these buildings often come across as monotonous.

Boring Modern Architecture

The notion of what constitutes boredom transcends the architectural style of a building, be it traditional or modern, rounded or square, iconic or mundane. It is fundamentally linked to a lack of engagement, a scarcity of enriching information for the mind, and an absence of crucial visual detail.

The Impact Of New Dull Buildings

It might seem that this is merely a nostalgic lament regarding the lack of kindness in our interactions. However, the issue at hand is far more complex than it appears.

There is scientific evidence demonstrating that stark, unadorned buildings can significantly affect our mental health. These architectural styles are associated with various physical and social difficulties. Colin Ellard’s 2012 study highlights that dull urban landscapes can create considerable stress for individuals, influencing both their mental and physical states.

The Lack of Public Affection

The influence of uninspiring architecture on the environment escalates the issue significantly. Structures that lack public affection are frequently torn down and rebuilt, a cycle that continues due to general indifference. This process results in substantial waste and considerable carbon emissions.

The facades of these buildings provide the backdrop for our lives, representing the walls of our society’s communal areas. They embody our shared spaces. Yet, it is surprising that this architectural aspect is largely unassessed. Many business leaders emphasize that without measurement, it is difficult to implement effective changes.

Savings Over Design

Many building designers,  may sometimes feel pressured and misinterpreted. Their ability to innovate is often restricted by the demands of developers, planners, building regulations, and limited budgets. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that they cannot entirely shift the burden of responsibility away from themselves.

They are the champions and shapers of ideas, responsible for the designs they produce. The evolution of our architectural approach over the last century is largely a reflection of their own choices.

The challenge is that the public has grown increasingly indifferent to the relentless influx of uninspired architecture, while simultaneously feeling entirely powerless to influence the changes occurring in their environment.

Should All New Buildings Look Iconic?

Expecting every new building to achieve an iconic status would be unrealistic. Instead, buildings should be designed with a degree of care, complexity, and emotional awareness, ensuring that they provide nourishment to the daily lives of those who use and pass by them.

Do Architects Care?

Architects are undoubtedly passionate about their work, as evidenced by their extensive training, long hours, and significant responsibilities, often for modest compensation.

However, it appears that the profession has overlooked the importance of considering the experiences of the average person navigating their designs.

Conclusion

Architecture has, for far too long, been involved in a conversation that primarily reflects its interests. It frequently falls into the trap of group consensus. Regardless of individual viewpoints, this seems to be a significant moment for us to venture beyond these limitations.