Is Good Architecture a Luxury?

Any architect schooled in the Modernist tradition is taught that architecture’s role is to improve society, whether in the form of decent housing for the poor or inspiring public and…

Any architect schooled in the Modernist tradition is taught that architecture’s role is to improve society, whether in the form of decent housing for the poor or inspiring public and private buildings.

The reality is that most buildings are mundane, most are not even designed by architects and even those that are do not necessarily live up to those aspirations. Michael Maltzan is an architect who has managed to express that ideal, in projects ranging from art museums to stunning private homes to schools and housing complexes for the least affluent. On Tuesday night, July 6, I’ll talk to Michael about the challenges and rewards of creating good architecture, whatever the budget. That’s at Zocalo “public square”, taking place at at 7:30PM at Petersen Automotive Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd. Hope to see you there.