Fortunately, they are not square, our feet. Imagine our shoes. Instead of finely crafted and contoured leather or carefully engineered performance synthetics, our shoes would be more like shoe boxes, if we had square feet.
But we don’t. Our feet, like our hands and limbs, torso, head and heart are perfectly developed to support us in our days and nights. Square feet would be a poor measure of the quality of our lives.
Buildings are often measured using square feet. It is a quantitative value, but not much more. Square feet can tell you the general size, but can’t possibly describe quality.
As architects we are often asked how many square feet our design is. Off the top of our heads, we don’t know, but it’s easy to find out.
When we design, we are far more interested in values that support, sustain, and enrich lives. Size is truly less important than the many other qualities that a building provides.
Are the spaces designed well for their purposes? Are the purposes arranged in a logical or natural manner? Is there a generous amount of daylight and fresh air? Is it comfortable to be in the space? Are the materials healthful and pleasing? Does the way the building is composed and oriented make living easier, better and more beautiful? Do you feel good being there?
Take off your shoes and walk around in your socks. Measure where you live with your heart.