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| Design and Construction: Building in Value |
The question is sometimes asked: “What is the difference between architecture and building?” One facetious answer is: ‘If the roof leaks, it’s architecture.’ The basis of this response lies in the architect’s quest for new and different ways of satisfying humanity’s basic need for shelter and security. Innovation always carries some risks and the risks attached to the pursuit of innovative approaches in the design and construction of buildings are exacerbated by the very nature both of the products (i.e., buildings) and of the industry that produces them.
The leaky roof symbolizes the problems that architects and builders face as they try to explore new designs and utilize new materials and construction methods – neither the designers nor the contractors are completely familiar with the new material or system and there are no previously completed installations to look at for guidance. The result is that new methods are only truly tested when they are used in ‘live’ projects and it may not be until a number of projects have been completed that any new method, material, component or system is completely satisfactory in use.
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