[A working point is the location in plan and elevation from which all the dimensions for a building originate. Similarly, the location of any other point in the building should be able to be defined by x, y and z values relative to the working point.]
In the layout and design of a building if dimensions are not place properly on the plans, a simple mistake can make all the dimensions irrelevant. A common mistake is to thoroughly dimension a room or area of a building, but not tie those dimensions to some fixed reference – a “working point”. When this happens, there is no way to know where to begin building the rooms because there is no stated relationship or relevance to something beyond those rooms.
Too often we architects speak only to each other. We confer rewards on one another, we strive to have our projects featured in journals and on websites only other architects monitor. We fail to link the value of what we do to a working point or set of values that belongs to those outside the architectural profession and the building industry.
Dana Cuff, a professor at UCLA states in her book, Architecture: The Story of A Practice, that design is a social art and the successful projects will be seen as such by: 1) Stakeholders – clients, designers, builder; 2) The public – as represented by press and general opinion and 3) The profession – in form of awards and publication in journals.
Why use the concept of “working point” as the title for our blog? Blue Ridge Architects wants to demonstrate the relevance of architecture by linking it to things that matter to those outside the building industry. We seek to better understand what the public values. That said, architecture has a prophetic role as well – it needs to constantly, respectfully, remind the public that there is a better way to live. This blog will seek connect the power and potential of architecture to needs and aspirations of those who live, work, play and worship in the buildings we design. Please join the discussion.
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