College World Series, TD Ameritrade Park. Photo copyright HDR.

Live

Full of life; at the moment of its happening

Architecture creates space for people to interact.

Even as we move to a virtual society, one thing that will never be replaced is the “live” experience. A unique connection occurs between people when they interact in real life; it gives rise to an energy that is life, that cannot be replicated.

A live performance is special because it fosters a shared energy and connection between the performer(s) and the patrons, also between the patrons themselves. Architecture shapes the experience by making it more intimate or more engaging. Whether the performance is music, theater, or a sporting event, the design can enhance the experience.

Architecture creates the spaces for unique, live experiences to exist. Even daily interaction in an office or home can be enhanced by the quality of the space. The ability to collaborate in a variety of ways is easier if the furniture promotes teamwork, and if the layout of the space causes the intersection or an informal collision of varied disciplines.  Similar concepts apply to nearly all building types and places where people interact.

We’ve all experienced video conference calls, Skype and the electronic image/video—all have their place and are better than not having the ability to reach out and interact at all. But at the same time, as good as technology has become, none of these truly replicate meeting live. Having an engaging experience in person, feeling the energy of life and the nuances of personal face-to-face interactions in the same room, adds real value.

In some ways, being part of a community is inherent in our DNA. Having the ability to work from anywhere is extremely useful, but being a true participant of a culture is best accomplished in person.

Architecture shapes these experiences.

Keep it real and embrace the live experience.