Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, before the fire
The term “wasted space” is the most devastating criticism that can be leveled at an architectural design. When someone says it, it is nearly impossible for the designer to not take it as a direct personal insult. Fortunately, designers are necessarily proud characters, able to quickly return such criticism back on the criticizer. Once “wasted space” has been uttered…the gloves are off. In the designer’s head: Only an ignorant fool would use the term, only someone artistically dead, only a person without a soul…
But perhaps we designers should consider leveling that criticism at our own work. Architecture, first and foremost, is about Space. Any design that withers in the face of “wasted space” is proof positive of failure.
On the other hand, generosity of space can give a design grace, comfort, ease, repose, balance. It can even rise to the level of inspiration. Yes, efficient use of space is important, but generosity might lift our hearts, might provide a respite from mean-spiritedness, might encourage our souls.
It is better to err on the side of grace than stifle with stinginess.
Never let “wasted space” apply to what you do. Instead, may your work not only be efficient, but may it nourish your spirit and prize something intangible, may it inspire inspiration.