the importance of Mapping and Abstract

Representations. .

Mapping and Abstract exercises extracts out arbitrary but often critical information that are often missed out by casual and straightforward research.

Oftentimes, the influence of derivations, process and research do not hold a high level of importance to architectural firms due to their painstaking process and would cost billable hours to a seemingly " non- productive" discourse. Or maybe perhaps, such process is tailored to those who can mentally afford to do so. 

Sadly, the precedents of good architecture do not fit the capitalist nature of most business models. It again boils down to one thing-- do we need a habitable space ? or architecture. 

The most important elements of the process are the intangibles. 

Architectural Startup Costs

my home office setup...

my home office setup...

Starting your own firm is a daunting task, especially if you’re not completely sure of what you’re getting yourself into. Author Mark LePage, founder of Entrepreneur Architect knows this firsthand. This guide, originally published on Entrepreneur Architect, discusses the financial implications of starting your own firm and acts as a guide through the challenge, leading you to success. 

Mark LePage. "How Much Will It Cost to Start My Own Architecture Firm?" 

 

Pritzker 2011: RRReactions from a Parametricist

The first fact: frankly, I don't give a flying f*** (maybe a bit), but since my quiet architectural endeavors has been compromised and halted by questions from all sides lingering on the recent announcement of this year's Pritzker Prize recipient, yours truly had to take a breather, give up some of my time and actually decide on where to position myself on the matter.
Like the Nobel, the Pritzker brings out all things awefully interesting in our profession: the Neigh-sayers, the Enthusiastic Bugs (eager beavers) and the rest. For all that wasn't really informed (aka. 99% of the world who does not really give a hoot), the Pritzker Architecture Prize  "is awarded annually by the Hyatt Foundation to honor "a living architect whose built work demonstrates a combination of those qualities of talent, vision and commitment, which has produced consistent and significant contributions to humanity and the built environment through the art of architecture".
There actually was an information leak just before the actual winner for this year was announced- well , anyways, it was given to the respectable Eduardo Souto de Moura, a Portugese Architect. I further read that this decision has come somewhat of a surprise to the architectural industry (wow)  for number of reasons: a. the recipient was barely known outside Portugal, where his practice and works are concentrated, b. that his architecture is really a reflection of tranquility and emotions, this lead to c. it never reflected any innovation and  hint of where the architectural progress is heading towards.