A ‘good building’, according to the first century Roman Architect Vitruvius, embodies utilitas, firmitas, and venustas (commodity, firmness and delight). The Modern Architect, through the practice of Responsive Design, is also bound by conscientia (awareness). A building, new or already built, can no longer exist unaware of the impact it has on it’s occupants, the surrounding context, or the environment.
Responsive Design addresses natural, social, environmental, and economic forces, often intangibles, surrounding a building, with as much urgency as the design of the building itself.
Architects have always strived to deliver ‘good buildings’ that are useful, durable, and beautiful. This was enough for Vitruvius, and centuries of Architects through the ages. But it is not enough any more. The collective stewardship of the built environment, and awareness of the role that each building plays on its own and the aggregate, is fundamental to a modern architectural expression.
Responsive Design is quick to evaluate, slow to demolish, and judicious in designing solutions which are durable, useful, beautiful, and do no harm.
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