Show Me the Canyon
For me, architecture’s ultimate question is how to take something that has become obsolete (or is perceived to be), and transform it into something useful and meaningful. To do that you have to listen to the building — and maximize its attributes.
Guiseppe Delena, a designer at Ford, once said, “Don’t tell me you need a bridge; show me the canyon.” I think this is an absolutely great quote; as architects, we must be very good listeners, and work hard to understand our clients so that we can give them the most creative solutions that will serve them over time.
We architects get to work with fascinating people who are at the highest levels in their fields, whether they be engineers, landscape architects or other architects — and of course, with our clients as well. It’s the people who are rewarding and exciting to me; there’s not a day that I don’t learn something.
Larry Barr, AIA is Vice President and Principal of Quinn Evans Architects’ Washington, DC office. With extensive experience in the renewal of existing buildings and neighborhoods, his clients have included the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Smithsonian Institution and the General Services Administration.
