Chicago architect Carol Ross Barney moderates a discussion with leaders representing design excellence programs from across the country. Common wisdom states that architecture and good design are accessible only to those who can afford them, but why? From public schools to transit stations, what should we expect of our public space? Design is not merely an aesthetic expression; it is a functional and aspirational embodiment of society, informed by a wide array of individuals. Good buildings are efficient and comfortable. Great buildings are memorable and inspiring: living, ever-changing environments that become beloved spaces to live, work, and think. Should architecture with long-term impact become a component of the social, political, and economic viability of our urban environments? Should we as a society demand more?
Right or Privilege: Design in the Public Realm
