The aesthetic of architecture has to be rooted in a broader idea

The gentle murmur of the café filled the air, blending with the rhythmic tapping of rain against the window. Jack sat across from Jeeny, his coffee cup cradled in his hands, his gaze drifting toward the rain-soaked streets. Jeeny, sitting opposite him, seemed lost in thought, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her cup.

Host: After a moment of silence, Jeeny spoke, her voice thoughtful, with a hint of curiosity.

Jeeny: “I came across a quote from Thom Mayne today that made me think about the relationship between architecture and everyday life. He said, ‘The aesthetic of architecture has to be rooted in a broader idea about human activities like walking, relaxing and communicating. Architecture thinks about how these activities can be given added value.’ What do you think he means by that? Do you think architecture should go beyond just being functional and aesthetic?”

Jack: He looked up, a small smile forming on his face. “I think Mayne is suggesting that architecture isn’t just about designing beautiful buildings or creating structures that are functional. It’s about understanding how people will interact with these spaces and how the environment can enhance the everyday activities that happen within it. It’s not just about creating walls and roofs—it’s about shaping experiences, whether that’s making people feel comfortable when they relax, inspired when they walk through a space, or connected when they communicate. Architecture, in this sense, adds value to human activities by thinking about how spaces facilitate those experiences.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. Architecture has this profound impact on how we live our lives. It’s not just about placing a building in a certain spot; it’s about creating spaces that enhance the way we move through the world. When Mayne talks about ‘adding value,’ I think he’s referring to how architecture can elevate ordinary moments—like the act of walking through a hallway or sitting in a park. It’s about designing spaces that help us connect with our environment and with each other, making those simple activities feel more meaningful or enjoyable.”

Host: The rain outside had softened, leaving a quiet stillness between them. Jack shifted slightly, his fingers still resting on his coffee cup as he continued.

Jack: “And I think Mayne is emphasizing the connection between the built environment and human experience. Architecture isn’t just a backdrop to life; it shapes how we live and interact. For example, the way a building is laid out can encourage communication or collaboration, or the way light enters a room can make it feel more relaxing or invigorating. It’s not about creating a space that simply serves a function, but one that enriches how we experience the world around us.”

Jeeny: “Yes, and it’s about creating a sense of belonging. When architecture is designed with human activities in mind, it creates spaces that feel more connected to us. It’s not just about form or function; it’s about how the environment supports our activities and aligns with our needs. A well-designed space can make you feel at ease, more productive, or even more inspired. It’s about creating places that don’t just serve a purpose but make the experience of using them more fulfilling.”

Host: The conversation seemed to deepen, as they both reflected on the deeper role of architecture in shaping daily life. Jack set his coffee cup down gently, his expression softening.

Jack: “Exactly. Architecture, when done well, should feel like an extension of our daily lives. It should support the rhythm of our activities, from walking through public spaces to gathering with others. It’s not just about functionality or aesthetics in isolation, but about how both of those elements come together to enhance human experience. A great building doesn’t just house people; it invites people to engage with it and with one another in new and meaningful ways.”

Jeeny: Her smile was small but filled with understanding. “Yes. The most powerful spaces are those that make us feel more connected, whether to others or to ourselves. Mayne’s words remind us that architecture is not just a physical structure—it’s a way of creating environments that empower and enrich the human experience. It’s about making the ordinary moments of life—walking, relaxing, communicating—feel more significant and alive.”

Host: The rain had stopped, leaving a calm stillness in the café. Inside, Jack and Jeeny sat in the realization that architecture is more than just buildings; it’s about shaping human experiences. Thom Mayne’s words remind us that great design is not just about what a space looks like or how it functions, but how it enhances the activities that happen within it—giving added value to the simplest of moments. Architecture has the power to transform the ordinary into something meaningful, creating spaces that support and inspire us in our everyday lives.