Culture, Tradition, and Meaning

Building, or simple construction, is a pragmatic issue, serving to meet a fundamental human need for shelter, to protect us from the harmful elements of the environment around us, whether that be severe weather, wild animals, thieves, or marauding hoards.  Building becomes Architecture when men and women choose to use what they build to alter their environment in pursuit of what they desire.  Architecture allows us to shape the world we want to live in.

We believe Architecture is richest when informed by the breadth and complexity of human experience.  When a group of people come together in a common pursuit and share experiences, over time they form a culture with shared traditions, common myths, and a collective memory, a history.  This is true whether we speak of a family, a parish, a village, or a nation.  These traditions and myths become associated with the places and the buildings where they occur.  Think about some of your strongest memories, whether they be positive or traumatic moments in your life.  The physical setting of the event is an important part of the memory.  Our memories are intertwined with the places where we form them.  That is why we give such importance to choosing a venue when planning significant events.  Think of a bride-to-be choosing the church or other venue for her wedding.

Arch of Titus, Roman Forum; Rome, Italy

San Andrea by Alberti; Mantua, Italy

St. Stanislaus Catholic Church; Rossville, Kansas

When these associations between place, event, and emotion become collective within a culture, they give symbolic meaning to certain forms, materials, and details that are recognized by all.  As Architects, we can then use these forms, materials, and details in a new building to communicate its intended purpose and place within the hierarchy of the city’s organization.  When we take a moment to reflect on the century’s old tradition of our Christian faith and the church buildings we worship in, we see this is no more true than in our churches.  We can use these forms to better express our faith and enrich the exercise of our faith. So, we look to tradition to inform our designs, imbue our buildings with deeper cultural meanings, and give spirit to the places we make.

But tradition is not static, it does not merely reflect the past.  Rather, it is continually evolving to remain current and relevant, reflecting the best of a culture.  We write the next chapter in tradition by creating buildings that are of their time and place, reflecting the values and purposes of their inhabitants, the present culture of the broader community, and the impact of the geographic locale.

To receive future news and insights from us, be sure to SIGN UP for our mailing list.