Architecture Matters:

a written report,

Pittsburgh, October, 2024

Introduction:

In an era where the built environment is transforming at an unprecedented pace, architects find themselves at a critical juncture. Cities around the world are wrestling with a myriad of complex challenges – from environmental degradation and resource scarcity to social inequality and the relentless push of urbanization. These are not issues that can be solved with conventional thinking; they demand a more profound, visionary approach. While architecture alone cannot resolve all of society’s problems, it wields the power to inspire change, ignite conversations, and lead the way toward a more helpful future.

Architecture is more than the design of buildings; it is the art of shaping experiences, influencing behavior, and fostering a deeper connection between people and the places they inhabit. “Part of my, shall I say. Soapbox,” Suchi Reddy noted during the “Architecture Matters” conversations, “is that architects have sort of given up their role as poets in society.” Her words echo the sentiment of a profession striving to redefine its identity – not just as creators of spaces, but as cultural visionaries capable of inspiring communities and addressing the urgent needs of our time.

The “Architecture Matters” conversations delve into these evolving roles and responsibilities of architects, exploring how the profession can move beyond compliance and technical expertise to become a catalyst for societal transformation. These discussions, held across multiple sessions, brought together voices from cities like New York, Pittsburgh, and Stockholm. Each city represented the unique challenges and opportunities of its local context while addressing universal themes that resonate across the globe. Architects shared their insights on how the profession can lead the way in creating a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient future.

A key takeaway from these conversations is the recognition that architectural priorities must be deeply rooted in the specific environmental, social, and economic contexts of each location. The challenges faced by urban environments are not uniform; each city carries its own unique set of issues that architects must consider to create meaningful and sustainable designs. These complexities highlight the need for architects to adopt place-based strategies that are responsive to local conditions while contributing to broader, multidisciplinary efforts.

This report distills the rich insights from these discussions into three overarching themes: understanding the pressing challenges we face; the role of architecture in raising awareness; and the potential of design to drive positive change. Each theme has woven the voices of those who participated, reflecting a shared belief that architecture can and should do more. “We need to be better at engaging the public and developers, giving them the same tools and broader understanding of the complexities we deal with,” said Erik Werner, highlighting the need for effective communication and collaboration in bridging the gap between visionary ideas and practical realities.

As we navigate the complexities of the built environment, it is clear that architecture has a pivotal role to play—not just in constructing physical spaces, but in shaping the future of our communities. This report calls on architects to reclaim their multifaceted roles as cultural leaders, educators, and advocates for change. The stakes are high, but so is the potential for architecture to make a difference – to be, as Reddy puts it, the poet that society needs.

Participants:

Pittsburgh
Bea Spolidoro | FisherArch
Erica Cochran Hameen | CMU School of Architecture
Greg Coni | GBBN
Jeff Murray | Cannon Design

New York City
Brian Tabolt | Diller Scofidio + Renfro
Erick Gregory | DCP NYC
Jerry van Eyck | !Melk
Suchi Reddy | Reddymade Design

Report written by:

Negin Shahidi | Sustainability Specialist | Architect | LEED GA | AIA Associate

The Challenges and Role of Architecture in Raising Awareness

Every city faces its unique set of challenges that influence its growth, development, and the quality of life of its inhabitants. From environmental degradation to economic shifts, these issues shape the urban landscape in ways that are both visible and invisible. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward crafting meaningful solutions that resonate with the communities they affect.

One of the most pressing issues discussed in the “Architecture Matters” conversations was the severe air quality problems faced by Pittsburgh. Matthew Mehalik highlighted the impact of the US Steel Clairton Coke Works, stating, “One facility, the US Steel Clairton Coke Works, is responsible for 90% of the cancer risk from toxic air emissions in Allegany county. It’s a significant challenge that impacts thousands of residents.” Despite some progress, the region still does not meet updated health standards for PM 2.5. Mehalik emphasized that “systemic change is needed” and that reliance on enforcement actions alone, such as fines and consent agreements, is not enough to tackle the problem effectively.

The complexity of Pittsburgh’s situation is further compounded by the legacy of its steel industry, which continues to influence local politics and public opinion, making necessary environmental reforms difficult to implement. Mehalik noted that “the legacy of the steel industry still influences our political landscape,” posing a significant barrier to progress. Adding to this challenge, the proliferation of fracking wells across Pennsylvania has introduced new pollutants and increased the complexity of the region’s environmental problems..

Environmental challenges also transcend local boundaries, connecting regions in unexpected ways. Brian Tabolt recalled how Canadian wildfires sent smoke drifting into New York City, enveloping it in an unsettling orange haze. “It was a stark reminder of how the air and atmosphere connect us all globally,” he noted, stressing the need for a collaborative response that integrates local actions with global strategies.

In contrast, Taiga Koponen shared insights from Sweden’s journey towards better air quality, emphasizing the importance of reuse and adaptation. While Sweden has achieved good air quality today by relocating industries away from cities, Koponen suggested “Today, we would probably take a different approach, focusing on reusing and repurposing these industrial areas rather than demolishing them,”. This reflection indicates that while past strategies might have been effective, contemporary solutions require a more nuanced and sustainable approach.

Architects have a unique opportunity to raise awareness about these issues, leveraging their skills to make such problems visible and tangible. One of the challenges discussed was how to communicate the severity of air quality problems, particularly those involving pollutants like PM 2.5, which are not visible to the naked eye. Erik Werner highlighted this difficulty, explaining that “today, you can’t see these particulates like PM 2.5. We’re dealing with entities so small that they’re invisible, making it hard to convey the seriousness of the problem.” This lack of visibility can lead to a disconnect between the problem and public perception, making it difficult to mobilize community action. Architects, therefore, need to find innovative ways to visualize these invisible threats, making the abstract tangible and the invisible visible.

In London, for example, the introduction of the Ultra-Low Emission Zone and the electrification of public transport have significantly improved air quality. Finn Williams pointed out that these initiatives have had a substantial impact even though they are not directly related to building design. He stated,

Design is not just about buildings; it’s about shaping the systems and policies that govern our cities. | Finn Williams

Williams’ comments underscore the importance of architects in not only designing structures but also contributing to broader urban policies and systems that influence public health and quality of life.

In Pittsburgh, the Smell PGH app has been an effective tool for raising awareness about air quality. Mehalik described how the app allows residents to report bad air quality, making the issue more visible and increasing public engagement. He noted, “The Smell PGH app allows residents to report bad air quality, making the issue more visible and increasing public awareness.” This example demonstrates how technology, combined with architectural expertise, can empower communities to take part in conversations about their environment.

Raising awareness is about more than just presenting information; it’s about crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with people’s experiences and values. As cultural leaders, architects have the tools to shape these narratives, making the abstract concrete and the invisible visible. By doing so, they can help foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the built environment and our daily lives, paving the way for meaningful change.

Moreover, architects can play a crucial role in advocating for systemic changes that go beyond individual buildings. By engaging with policymakers, communities, and other stakeholders, architects can help shape the broader systems and policies that influence urban life. As Williams pointed out, the goal is to create a vision for a future where the built environment not only meets the needs of today but also anticipates and adapts to the challenges of tomorrow.

This transformative potential of architecture goes beyond creating beautiful buildings. It’s about designing with intent, crafting spaces and places that tell stories, raise awareness, and inspire action. Architects are uniquely positioned to lead this charge, using their skills not just to design the world we see, but to change how we see the world.

Recognizing these multifaceted challenges allows architects and planners to create designs that not only address the immediate needs of their communities but also contribute to broader efforts to mitigate environmental impacts and foster a more sustainable future.

Designing for *Change: Architecture as a Catalyst for Action***

The role of architecture extends beyond the creation of aesthetically pleasing buildings; it encompasses the potential to drive meaningful societal and environmental change. By designing with intention, architects can craft spaces that not only meet functional needs but also address broader issues such as sustainability, economic revitalization, and community well-being. The “Architecture Matters” conversations emphasized that architects must actively engage in creating a vision for a better future, advocating for a shift in how the built environment is conceived and realized.

One key aspect discussed was the need to repurpose and reimagine existing industrial sites, especially in cities like Pittsburgh, where the legacy of the steel industry continues to shape the urban landscape. Erik Werner highlighted the importance of developing long-term visions for such industrial cities: “Maybe we can show people an alternative future for these industrial sites that respects heritage and culture, reuses the buildings, and provides new kinds of employment and economic opportunities.” This vision involves a delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing sustainable development, transforming spaces that were once symbols of industrial might into thriving, multifunctional hubs that serve contemporary needs.

Matthew Mehalik echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to shift the region’s economic narrative away from its industrial past and towards more diverse sectors. “Our region’s economy is much more diverse now with healthcare, software, and university employment leading the way. Yet the legacy of the steel industry still holds a grip on our political leaders, which holds us back.” By rethinking the economic identity of regions like Pittsburgh, architects can play a crucial role in guiding the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient future, creating spaces that support a diversified economy and contribute to community well-being.

Architects also have a responsibility to engage with their communities and advocate for design practices that prioritize public health and environmental quality. Jeffrey Murray emphasized the role of architects as trusted figures who can influence public perception:

Architects have a unique position of trust and credibility. We can use that to advocate for better design practices and policies that prioritize public health and environmental quality. | Jeffrey Murray

This advocacy extends beyond the design of individual buildings to include broader systemic changes that align with sustainable and equitable development goals. Murray shared an anecdote about a developer recognizing the power of architects to sway public opinion, highlighting the potential impact architects can have when they actively engage in discussions about design and policy.

Designing for change also involves making thoughtful choices about materials and construction methods to minimize the negative environmental impacts of buildings. During the discussions, participants stressed the importance of selecting materials and design strategies that are not only sustainable but also regenerative. Finn Williams argued for a shift towards genuinely regenerative architecture, suggesting that architects need to ask themselves, “How much can we build?” He elaborated, “We need to move from asking ‘How little can we build?’ to ‘How much can we build?’—buildings that store more carbon than they use, generate more electricity than they need, and create richer ecosystems than they replace.” This approach challenges the conventional notion of sustainable design, advocating for a more ambitious vision where buildings contribute positively to their environment.

Incorporating materials that actively improve air quality, such as green facades, was another idea discussed. Jeffrey Murray suggested, “We should look at how buildings can be positive tools for air quality, using materials that clean the air.” By integrating these materials and design strategies, architects can create buildings that not only serve their intended functions but also contribute to the health and well-being of their occupants and the surrounding community.

Creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging and community engagement is another critical aspect of designing for change. As Mehalik pointed out, systemic change requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond fines and penalties, involving community members in meaningful discussions about the future of their neighborhoods. By actively engaging communities in the design process, architects can ensure that the spaces they create are not only functional but also resonate on a deeper emotional and cultural level, fostering a sense of ownership and connection.

In essence, designing for change is about reimagining the role of architecture in society. It is about creating buildings and spaces that are not merely functional or beautiful but that actively contribute to a better world. Architects have the power to envision and realize a future where the built environment supports sustainable living, enhances community resilience, and inspires people to engage with the spaces they inhabit in new and meaningful ways.

Through thoughtful design, advocacy, and a commitment to sustainability, architects can transform the built environment into a catalyst for positive change, shaping not only the physical landscape but also the cultural and social fabric of our communities.

The Architect as Poet

A recurring theme was the role of architects as the poets of society – a metaphor highlighting their responsibility to shape culture and public life through design. The discussions underscored the greatness and power inherent in this role, where architects are not just designers of buildings but creators of spaces that influence how people live, interact, and experience the world. However, many architects expressed frustration at how their creative roles have been overshadowed by the increasing demands of compliance and risk management.

Suchi Reddy reflected on this shift with a sense of urgency, arguing that architects need to reclaim their poetic identity, where creativity and social impact are at the core:

“Part of my, shall I say, Soapbox [...] has been [...] that architects have sort of given up their role as poets in society.” | Suchi Reddy

The diminishing focus on this poetic dimension in architecture has shifted the perception of architects—from being seen as cultural visionaries to being viewed primarily as professionals navigating the constraints of compliance and bureaucracy.

Building on this critique, Jerry van Eyck emphasized the widening gap between the architect’s role as an artist and the practical realities of delivering projects that meet client expectations and regulatory demands. He explains, “There’s a big gap between the architect or the designer as an artist, as a poet, and what is basically providing the commodity to express our profession which is clients, the general public, and other factors that basically make us comply with something.” Van Eyck’s reflection underscores a fundamental tension in contemporary architecture: The struggle to balance creative freedom with the pressure of conformity and practically.

Anna Rex focused on the influence of measurable aspects within architectural practice and how this impacts decision-making. She points out that there is a tendency to prioritize elements that can be quantified, which can affect the broader approach to sustainability and spatial quality. She states, “As soon as we can measure something, it's important, and that's connected to politics and money. We’re working with questions about making spatial quality.” Rex’s perspective suggests that while measurable data is critical, architects must also consider the qualitative aspects that contribute to the experiential and sustainable value of spaces.

Adding to this conversation, Björn Förstberg emphasized the need for architects to go beyond merely meeting technical standards, such as building performance metrics or certifications like LEED. While these are essential, Fosbury argues that they should be considered a baseline, not the pinnacle of architectural achievement. "We have a responsibility to push beyond the minimum requirements set by regulations and frameworks," he asserts. For Fosbury, the unique contribution of architects lies in their ability to create spaces that are both functional and beautiful—environments that people genuinely want to experience, not just spaces that "tick all the boxes." He notes that good architectural design should not be perceived as a luxury or come at an excessive cost; rather, it should be about adding value through beauty and thoughtful design that enriches everyday life.

Anna Sunnerö brought a unique perspective to the discussion by highlighting the growing trend toward hyper-specialization within the field of architecture. She points out that this trend, coupled with the increasing influence of politics on design decisions, has fragmented the profession and pulled architects away from their broader, more visionary roles. Sunnerö argued that architects need to reclaim their interdisciplinary roots, embracing their ability to address complex societal issues through holistic design approaches.

Meanwhile, Erik Bruhn reflected on how the profession has lost its way by becoming overly enamored with new trends and technological advancements, often at the expense of its foundational values.

We as a group are very keen to adapt to new tendencies in society and technology. We try to keep up with that, and after a while, we forget some kind of the core in our profession. | Erik Bruhn

. Bruhn emphasizes that the true essence of architecture lies not in chasing the latest fads but in shaping cultural and emotional landscapes that resonate deeply with people.

On a related note, Jakob Örtendahl expressed frustration over the challenges posed by excessive regulations, arguing that the current compliance-driven environment has significantly narrowed the scope of what architects can achieve creatively. “The core in the professionally what is an architect, I think it's just registrations and laws right now,” he laments. Örtendahl’s statement reflects a broader discontent within the profession, where architects often feel restricted by a system that prioritizes bureaucratic requirements over innovative design.

Ola Kjellander echoed this sentiment, stressing that while regulations are essential, they should not stifle the creative process or compromise the integrity of the design. Kjellander argues that architects must continue to strive for quality and innovation, even within these constraints. “When I work on a project I'm interested in the quality of the whole project, not only my work,” he asserted, emphasizing a collaborative and holistic approach to architectural practice.

Brain Tabolt and Bea Spolidoro added another dimension to the discussion by advocating for architecture as a tool to shape human behavior and influence societal values. Polidoro, in particular, emphasizes the ethical responsibility of architects to create environments that foster positive interactions and improve social conditions. "We design the context for human behavior at various levels. The built environment strongly influences us and as architects, we have a responsibility to create spaces that encourage good behavior and improve conditions for users," she explains. This perspective suggests that while architects must navigate practical constraints, their ultimate goal should be to create environments that are both inspiring and functional.

Erica Cochran emphasized the expanding role of architects as communicators and advocates for social and environmental change. She highlights the need for architects to go beyond aesthetics and take on the responsibility of educating clients and the public about the broader impacts of architectural decisions. She explained, “as architects, we need to go beyond aesthetics and start educating our clients and communities about the real impacts of architectural decisions.”

Good design is not just about looks—it's about creating healthier, more productive environments that can have a significant effect on people’s daily lives. | Erica Cochran

Cochran argued that architects should "be at the forefront, proactively demonstrating the value of thoughtful, well-designed spaces and their benefits to society." Her perspective underscores the importance of architects being more engaged and proactive, using their expertise to educate, inspire, and lead the charge toward a more sustainable and equitable built environment.

Regaining trust through vision

Trust emerged as a key issue, with participants discussing the ways in which architects can regain their position as trusted leaders in shaping the built environment.

This highlights the precarious nature of the profession today. There was an acknowledgement that architecture has moved away from its roots in shaping public life and culture, and a consensus that this role needs to be revitalized. The architects recognized the importance of storytelling in rebuilding trust with the public.

By refining the narrative, architects can better communicate the purpose and value of their work, reinforcing their role as shapers of society. This approach echoes the thoughts of Charles Moore, who emphasized the significance of narrative in architecture as a means of connecting with users on an emotional level.

Architecture in the *Orchestra of Context: Creating Urban Symphonies***

During the discussions, architects emphasized the critical role that architecture plays in shaping the urban experience, highlighting the importance of creating buildings that harmonize with their surroundings rather than simply standing out as isolated masterpieces. This idea aligns with the metaphor of architecture as “orchestra”, where each building acts as an instrument contributing to a cohesive and enriching urban environment.

Jerry van Eyck articulated this concept well, advocating for a balanced approach to architecture that prioritizes the broader urban context over individual expression. He stated that:

“not every building has to be or should be a masterpiece. Not every building should sing and dance.” | Jerry van Eyck

emphasizing that the true character of a city often emerges from the subtle interplay between its structures and the spaces between them. He also highlighted the importance of urban planning in ensuring that architecture contributes positively to the city as a whole, sharing ““I'm coming from a tradition where the urban designer comes first in the project and thinks of a city or a neighborhood or a development holistically and then fills in the blanks with architecture. That is a viable possibility.” This approach ensures that architectural projects are not just standalone structure but integral parts of a cohesive urban fabric.

Brian Tabolt reinforced this perspective by discussing how architecture must contribute meaningfully to its context. He remarked,

Certainly, the architecture that seems most inspiring to me. [...] is contributing to the city or the place that it is first. | Brian Tabolt

His viewpoint stresses the importance of buildings being rooted in their specific environments, enhancing that local character rather than imposing an external identity. He further illustrated this idea by reinforcing the evolution of the High Line in New York City. Initially conceived as a project to preserve infrastructure, the High Line has transformed over time into a significant urban landmark. Tabolt noted, “ The design didn’t change, but what changed was everything around it,” underscoring how the surrounding urban environment can alter the significance and influence of an architectural project over time. This example demonstrates how thoughtful architectural adaptation can have a lasting impact on a city as it evolves.

The discussions also explored the need for flexibility and adaptability in architectural design, especially in the context of evolving urban environments. Erica D. Cochran stressed the importance of designing with future changes in mind, stating, “We need to design with extra space and flexibility to make future retrofits easier.” This approach encourages architects to think beyond current needs and anticipate the unpredictable changes that cities may face, ensuring that buildings can evolve along with their surroundings.

Similarly, Mikael Stenqvist highlighted the concept of "designing for disassembly," pointing out the limitations of past architectural practices. “Buildings from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s weren’t designed to be taken apart, which is a disaster. We need to design buildings that can be easily disassembled and reused,” he argued. This sustainable approach to architecture ensures that as urban contexts change over time, buildings remain adaptable and reduce waste, contributing to a more circular economy.

The role of architecture in both shaping and being shaped by its context was a key focus of the discussions. Edfelt Martin emphasized the importance of integrating architecture into broader urban planning efforts, particularly in Sweden, where city architects play a significant role. “City architects represent municipalities in design quality and architectural outcomes,” he explained, underscoring their role in ensuring that all elements of urban development work together harmoniously. In cities like New York, where such roles are not formalized, Sander Schuur raised a critical question: “Who controls the overall city planning and the way buildings look and develop?” His query highlighted the need for a more coordinated approach to urban development in cities without centralized architectural oversight.

Bea Polidoro further underscored the human aspect of architecture by emphasizing the importance of designing with empathy. She remarked,”We design the context for human behavior at various levels. The built environment strongly influences us, and as architects, we have a responsibility to create spaces that encourage good behavior and improve conditions for users." Successful urban spaces are those that consider the needs and feelings of the people who use them every day, advocating for a design approach that is both functional and emotionally resonant. Her perspective highlights the role of architects in creating environments that not only serve practical purposes but also resonate with the inhabitants on a deeper emotional level.

The conversations consistently underscored the importance of balancing functionality, sustainability, and cultural relevance in urban design. Jeffrey Murray echoed this sentiment by cautioning against overly prescriptive design styles that may limit creative freedom. He stressed that, “Architecture should be functional, sustainable, and interesting—these elements are not mutually exclusive but rather essential for creating spaces that truly serve people.” This holistic approach to architecture, as discussed by Murray and others, calls for designs that are adaptable, context-sensitive, and reflective of both the needs of the present and the possibilities of the future.

Together, these discussions advocate for a more thoughtful, integrated approach to architecture—one that recognizes the importance of harmony, adaptability, and community engagement in creating vibrant and sustainable urban environments. By viewing architecture as an orchestra of context, where each building and space plays its part in the larger urban symphony, architects can craft cities that are not only functional but also enriching and inspiring for their inhabitants.

Communication and Collaboration: Bridging the Gap Between Vision and Reality

Greg Coni continued the discussion by sharing his thoughts on the importance of engagement in architectural design. "I made my own list after hearing the conversation, and comfort was one of my key points, so I'm glad to hear it's valued by others too," Coni began. He emphasized that engagement from occupants and owners is crucial for creating interesting architecture. "Engaging the people who will use the space is essential. Simply creating a beautiful structure isn't enough to garner their interest," he stated. Coni highlighted the importance of involving people in the design process. "Engaging them in the process, getting their design ideas, and giving them the opportunity to contribute is key to creating architecture that people will respond to," he explained. He pointed out that while architects should act as filters for these ideas, incorporating input from various stakeholders helps create a cohesive and interesting space. "We don't want a disjointed design with one person wanting a giant piece here and another wanting a small piece there. We need to take their ideas and morph them into a holistic and interesting space," Coni said.

Erica Cochran reinforced the importance of equipping architects with the tools and strategies needed to bridge this communication gap. She proposed a dual approach: “There are two ways we can address this. First, from an educational perspective, it starts in school… Second, we need to have tools that facilitate participatory design processes, requiring architects to engage with the community and stakeholders in a language they understand.” Cochran’s emphasis on education and participatory tools suggests that architects must not only be technically skilled but also proficient in engaging various stakeholders in meaningful dialogues about design, sustainability, and community needs.

The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration was another major theme in the discussions. The architects highlighted that successful architectural projects require more than just individual expertise; they demand a coordinated effort among architects, engineers, urban planners, and other professionals. Effective communication among these disciplines is essential to ensure that all elements of a project are harmonious, functional, and responsive to the needs of the community. Anders Larsson underscored this by highlighting the challenge of convincing clients of the value of innovative and sustainable design. “We need to be better at explaining the need and benefits of our designs, especially to clients focused on the economic side,” he noted. His statement reflects the ongoing struggle architects face in balancing creative vision with financial realities, emphasizing the role of clear, persuasive communication in aligning stakeholders around a common goal.

Community engagement also emerged as another crucial component of effective architectural practice. Architects recognized that involving the public in the design process is essential to creating spaces that genuinely serve those who use them. Erica Cochran raised an important question: “How do we bring in these voices to have conversations about comfort and values?” This question reflects a growing recognition of the need for inclusive engagement, especially with historically marginalized communities. By actively involving community members in the design process, architects can ensure that the spaces they create are not only functional but also resonate on a personal and cultural level, fostering a sense of ownership and connection.

To enhance this engagement, the architects discussed the importance of post-occupancy evaluations as a valuable tool for gathering feedback and understanding how spaces are used in real-life scenarios. Erica Cochran emphasized the importance of such evaluations, particularly for underrepresented communities who may not always have a voice in design processes. She pointed out, “Disenfranchised people rarely get asked how they feel about their living spaces. We need to ask them during the design process and then again after they’ve moved in.” Post-occupancy evaluations provide critical insights that can help architects refine their designs based on actual user experiences, ensuring that their projects meet the evolving needs of the people who live and work in these spaces.

The discussions also focused on the need to simplify the “secret language” of architecture to make design concepts more accessible and engaging for the public. Erick Gregory highlighted the power of visual communication tools in this effort, stating, “Drawing is a powerful tool for breaking down complex policies so that people can understand and debate them effectively.” Gregory’s perspective suggests that architects should leverage visual aids, such as drawings and diagrams, to demystify architectural processes and policies, making them more understandable and relatable. This approach not only helps in communicating complex ideas but also fosters a more inclusive and participatory design process, where community members feel empowered to contribute their insights and feedback.

Moreover, the discussions underscored the importance of building trust with clients and stakeholders through transparency and open communication. Architects must be able to articulate the value of their design choices and demonstrate how these choices align with broader goals of sustainability, community well-being, and economic viability. As Anders Larsson suggested, architects should focus on making a compelling case for innovative designs by clearly outlining their benefits beyond the immediate aesthetic or functional appeal. This involves not only explaining how sustainable designs can lead to long-term cost savings but also showing how thoughtful, innovative spaces can enhance quality of life and community identity.

The architects also pointed out that effective collaboration extends beyond the design phase and into the construction and post-construction phases, where continuous dialogue and feedback are crucial for achieving the intended outcomes. Erik Werner reiterated that a healthy discussion among all parties—architects, developers, public officials, and community members—is key to creating urban environments that are cohesive, sustainable, and responsive. He emphasized that architects must be skilled not only in design but also in facilitation and negotiation, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and that projects reflect a collective vision. “"We need to be better at engaging the public and developers, giving them the same tools and broader understanding of the complexities we deal with. This will help us have a healthy discussion that goes beyond the profession,"

Overall, these discussions reflect a collective call for architects to adopt a more inclusive and communicative approach, where bridging the gap between vision and reality involves more than just technical expertise. It requires empathy, transparency, and a commitment to engaging with the communities they serve. By simplifying their “secret language,” employing visual tools, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and prioritizing community engagement, architects can create spaces that are not only innovative and sustainable but also deeply connected to the people who inhabit them.

Conclusion: Reimagining the Future of Architecture

The “Architecture Matters” conversations highlight a critical juncture for the profession – one that invites architects to move beyond conventional boundaries of compliance, regulation, and commercial constraints to embrace a more profound, context-sensitive vision for their role in society. As architects navigate the diverse environmental, social, and economic challenges facing different urban settings, there is a growing recognition of the need for a more nuanced, place-based approach. The conversations underscore that while architecture has the power to shape healthier, more inclusive, and resilient environments, it must do so as part of a broader, multidisciplinary effort that involves collaboration across sectors and engagement with local communities.

By recognizing their multifaceted roles – whether as poets shaping cultural narratives, storytellers fostering connection, educators advocating for social and environmental responsibility, or orchestrators harmonizing community spaces – architects can create environments that resonate deeply with people.

Looking ahead, these reflections challenge architects to rethink their approach to practice and reassert their commitment to shaping spaces that inspire, connect,and elevate the human experience. By recognizing the transformative power of their work, architects can play a key role in designing a built environment that not only addresses the demands of today but also anticipates the needs of tomorrow, fostering a more sustainable, equitable, and inspiring future.

Appendix 1 - Brief Summary of past conversations in 2023:

In 2023, we initiated a conversation series where architects from Pittsburgh and Sweden gave short presentations reflecting on the theme of Health Equity in the built environment. The following is a brief recap of these coherence:

Session 1: Health Equity: Architecture and the Value of Design

Anna Sunnerö discussed the importance of integrating nature into urban environments to enhance creativity, concentration, and social interaction.
Amanda Markovic focused on designs that prioritize well-being, emphasizing sustainability, equity, and accessibility.
Fredrik Hansson highlighted the challenges of providing equal access to green spaces in Sweden, advocating for collaboration to co-create community-based solutions.
Jeff Murray introduced situated well-being, emphasizing the connection between architecture, emotions, and memories to create inclusive spaces.

Session 2: Health Equity: Public Space and the Built Environment

Linda Peterson emphasized biophilic design, showcasing how urban spaces can integrate nature to improve play, sustainability, and healthcare settings.
Brent Houck discussed the importance of designing public spaces that encourage walking, cycling, and healthy movement within urban environments.
Johanna Elgström shared her approach to creating spaces that promote lifelong activity, particularly for children and the elderly.
Nina Chase focused on combining long-term design with community engagement to create public spaces that reflect local needs and promote equity.

Session 3: Health Equity: Community Engagement and the Power of Education

Rebecca Rubin highlighted the significance of connectivity in urban design and how involving teenage girls in the process leads to healthier, more attractive spaces.
Robert Tuñón emphasized the importance of early community engagement, ensuring that communities are actively involved in the design process from the start.
Carlina Wikström discussed her approach to sustainable, community-driven projects that integrate local stakeholders in every phase of design and construction.
Erica Cochran focused on indoor environmental quality and energy efficiency, advocating for continuous improvement in vulnerable communities through post-occupancy evaluations.

Overall, the series called for a shift towards a collaborative, community-centered approach to architecture, where designers work alongside stakeholders to create environments that not only serve practical needs but also enhance the quality of life for all. As architects continue to push boundaries and rethink their roles, these discussions highlight the transformative power of architecture to shape a more equitable, healthy, and sustainable future.

Commentary by the author.

About the author:

Negin Shahidi - Sustainability Specialist | Architect | LEED GA | AIA Associate

Negin Shahidi is an architectural designer and researcher specializing in building performance and diagnostics. She holds a Master of Science from Carnegie Mellon University and a Master of Architecture from the University of Tehran. Negin has extensive experience in projects focused on sustainable design, energy efficiency in the built environment, and indoor environmental quality, with a strong emphasis on human-centered design to improve the quality of life for occupants and users.

Negin is involved with the Platform and author of this report.

Her master's thesis on LEED standards involved comprehensive data collection and analysis to assess the impact of certification levels on indoor environmental quality. At the Center for Building Performance and Diagnostics, she has conducted extensive research on HVAC systems, indoor environmental aspects, and human health. Negin is experienced in building performance modeling, including parametric analysis for optimizing energy efficiency in buildings. Her expertise extends to building envelope design and assessments, GIS-based neighborhood analysis, and post-occupancy evaluations aimed at enhancing user experience and environmental quality. Additionally, she has developed design proposals for residential projects as a freelance architectural designer. Her work reflects a commitment to integrating sustainability and human-centered principles to create built environments that enhance occupant well-being.