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(The edge protection / barriers -to prevent access to those top flats from the roof- on the other hand .... not so much.)⠀
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When I was studying architecture ,in London, I was told by the course director -during a crit- that I designed buildings for nice people. I.e. thinking people were good and socially aware and in his opinion, this was not something which would work "here". ⠀
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I must clarify I was not designing fluffy or unrealistic places. In fact, should I have been at the school of San Sebastian, where I started, or anywhere else in Europe where there are many buildings even friendly than mine was, I am certain nobody would have even thought in that way.⠀
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Over the years I understood that what he was talking about were not people but classes and that his comment was biased and dismissive against those who could not live in Georgian mansions.⠀
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The thing is, architects design buildings ,not for themselves, but for others. And for other to live happy lives, not just to survive.⠀
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To this day, I remain positive about the communities we design for because looking at it from a purely rational point of view, we cannot assume everyone who lives in council buildings will misbehave ,like we cannot assume everyone living in Georgian houses will be an outstanding human being. ⠀
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This is why 40 years after it was built, i respect the vision of Benson and Forsyth for Maiden Lane. I respect it and I am grateful for it. ⠀
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Are there things which could be improved? Yes... but my view is that absolutely everything can be learned from. That is growth!⠀
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Those things, however, cannot be an excuse to avoid raising our aspirations for us and others.⠀
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