Infrastructure is much more important than architecture.

Host: The café was filled with the low murmur of conversation, the clinking of cups and the soft hum of background music. The late afternoon light filtered softly through the windows, casting long shadows across the room. Jack and Jeeny sat at their usual table by the window, both sipping their coffee, but Jack seemed deep in thought. His fingers absentmindedly tapped the edge of his cup as he stared into the distance. Jeeny noticed his quiet mood and waited for him to speak.

Host: After a pause, Jack finally broke the silence, his voice thoughtful and a little distant.

Jack: “I came across a quote today by Rem Koolhaas. He said, ‘Infrastructure is much more important than architecture.’ It made me think about how we often focus so much on the design and appearance of buildings and structures, but the underlying infrastructure — the systems that keep everything running — is often the more essential part. What do you think? Is infrastructure really more important than the actual design of a building or a city?”

Jeeny’s eyes softened as she considered the question, her voice calm and measured as she responded.

Jeeny: “I think Koolhaas has a point. We often think of architecture as the aesthetic, the art of a building, but the true functionality and longevity of a space are rooted in its infrastructure. The roads, the water systems, the electrical grid — these are the things that make a building or a city livable. Without the right infrastructure, the most beautifully designed space could still be unsustainable or impractical. It’s like the foundation of a house: you can have the most stunning walls and roof, but if the foundation isn’t solid, everything else can crumble.”

Host: Jack nodded, clearly reflecting on her words. He looked down at his coffee for a moment before looking back up at Jeeny, his expression thoughtful.

Jack: “So, you’re saying that while design and aesthetics are important, it’s the systems that hold everything together — the plumbing, the power, the transportation — that really give a space its value and purpose?”

Jeeny smiled gently, her voice full of quiet affirmation.

Jeeny: “Exactly. Great architecture isn’t just about beauty or style; it’s about how the space functions and how it contributes to the lives of the people who use it. Infrastructure is what makes a city or a building truly effective. It’s about creating spaces that not only look good but also work well for the people who live and interact within them.”

Host: Jack’s fingers stilled on his mug as he took in her words. The café around them seemed to fade into the background as their conversation unfolded, the weight of Koolhaas' idea settling into his mind.

Jack: “It makes sense now. The best architecture isn’t just about the way it looks, but how it supports the lives of the people who use it. It’s about creating a balance between form and function, where the infrastructure is as much a part of the design as the aesthetic itself.”

Jeeny’s eyes softened with quiet understanding, her voice calm but filled with reassurance.

Jeeny: “Exactly. The most successful buildings and cities are the ones where infrastructure and architecture work in harmony. When the systems underneath are designed well, it allows the space to be functional, sustainable, and adaptable to the needs of the people. It’s not just about being pretty; it’s about being practical and resilient.”

Host: Jack sat back in his chair, the quiet realization settling over him. The conversation had turned into something deeper, something that connected the beauty of architecture with the necessity of infrastructure. The world outside the café continued its rhythm, but inside, Jack and Jeeny had uncovered a new understanding of what makes a space truly effective — not just the design, but the systems that make it work for everyone who interacts with it.