My Architecture
If I was to be released from the constraints of the Architecture school program, I would seek to work on residential design-build projects. I think that residential buildings are interesting because they can have so much character, and you always see something different. I have always been in a family of carpenters and masons, so I have always been close to, around and often in construction. I have also worked as a carpenter on many occasions, and I enjoy the building industry. I think that there are many ways in which I could effect my environment over time. The areas that attract me are energy efficiency, energy consumption reduction, and thorough planning.
I hope to be able to do research over time in the area of solar energy and the innovations that are taking place in that industry. The sun is one of the most powerful forces we have with all of the rays that it emits. Someday, if not already, the technology will exist that will allow us to efficiently convert the suns energy into power that everyone can use. For example a 1 foot by 1 foot panel could be used to collect enough energy for an entire household. Can you imagine if someone invented a way to absorb the gamma rays and convert them to power! Energy would no longer be a limited commodity...it would be free!
Another area that interests me is reducing energy consumption through extensive planning in the early phase of a project. I think that as homes are being designed and built today, there is a lack of research done in selecting the proper materials, mechanical components and attention to the site. All of these add up to waste, and a lack of function and comfort.
I think that people are becoming more and more conscious about these things, and will be willing to devote more time and money to see them through. This is also another area the needs much research.
Since I am constrained to the architecture school for the time being, I hope that it will broaden my creativity in these areas.