As we gaze adoringly at the renderings for high-rises that soon will fill the Chicago skyline, do we over emphasize what the elevations of the buildings will look like at the expense of the unit design? David Brininstool of Brininstool & Lynch tells Yo that his company’s design priorities are driven by the idea of making the units as livable as possible (pictured is Brininstool & Lynch’s 535 St Clair). The architect designs units that optimize space through such devices as sliding doors that reconfigure rooms. Does the emphasis on unit design compromise the aesthetics of the exterior of the building?
“It gives the exterior of the building a pleasing look,” Brininstool said. “It’s just very straightforward, really simple and visually quiet as far as it fits into the neighborhood. We think it’s more important that the big impact is looking out and that the building functions well for the people who inhabit it and for its neighbors.” After an answer like that, Yo’s truly had to ask Brininstool if he thinks some architects allow their egos to get in the way of creating livable buildings geared to the needs of homebuyers. His answer? “Oh absolutely, that’s happened. People are human.”
So what does Brininstool think of the whole notion of “starchitects” or treating architects as celebrities?
“In many respects it’s good for all of us because we need to get the public engaged and excited about architecture,” he told Yo. “There are trophy buildings and celebrity architects and I hope the right people don’t think of it as that alone, but delve deeper.”
Yo wants your thoughts on starchitects. Can you think of a building that has a noteworthy exterior, but thoughtlessly designed units? Is the starchitect culture a healthy thing?