Architecture has a deep relationship with craft, the manipulation of material through the human mind and hand.
But it’s a relationship in flux—strained by the economics of construction and challenged by the digitization of building processes. Leaders from several architecture firms gathered at the Boffi showroom in New York City to contemplate the role of craft in architecture.
They discussed how craft shows up in their work and what parts of crafting a building feel critical to them. Christopher Sharples, founding principal of SHoP Architects, noted that when they started their firm, they had a shop in the office where they could experiment with materials and understand how they would be made.
Darina Zlateva, director at KPF, said that the way they think about their projects is in the Powers of Ten, considering how a building looks from different scales. Michael K. Chen, principal at MKCA, emphasized that craft is about connecting their work to a set of agendas that are much larger than the projects themselves.
He said that their attitude about craft is about the elective decisions they make as designers, in terms of what they value and the processes they engage in. Craig Copeland, principal designer at Pelli Clarke & Partners, worked extensively with Dark Olive marble from Turkey for the lobby of a mixed-use building in Washington, D.C.
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He collaborated with the fabricators at every stage of material selection and installation. Brad Zuger, partner at Rockwell Group, said that giving themselves the time to engage craftspeople and craft something very special is one way of creating meaning.
As the architects discussed their experiences with craft, it became clear that it’s not just about the end product, but about the process.
It’s about the people involved, the materials used, and the attention to detail. It’s about creating something that is meaningful and has a sense of care.
The discussion also touched on the idea that craft is not just a luxury, but it could also mean longevity and more meaning. As architecture continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how craft plays a role in shaping the built environment, including favorite booths at design events.
One thing is certain – the value of craft in architecture is not just about the physical building, but about the people and the process. It’s about creating something that is meaningful, sustainable, and beautiful.