Studio Chats: What Makes a Place Feel Like it Belongs?
As a follow up to the thought leadership article shared last month about contextual relevance, titled Welcome to Nowhere, the author, Junior Associate, William Glocker, sat down with Studio Design Leader, Benjamin Arcia to discuss the topic in more depth. From the conversation, additional ideas emerged as the two candidly shared their perspectives. More details about the discussion are below, as well as the full podcast-style conversation.
"I don't want to wake up in a world where I don't know where I am from the built environment." – Will Glockner, MLA, ASLA
This month’s conversation began with the question: How do we create places that people actually feel connected to? As cities around the world become more connected, many of our buildings are starting to look increasingly similar. Last month’s thought leadership article is accompanied by a conversation where Studio Design Leader, Benjamin Arcia and Junior Associate, Will Glockner explores the relationship between architecture, culture, economics, and identity. What began as a discussion about development and placemaking evolved into a broader examination of how buildings influence not only their immediate surroundings but the lasting character of entire communities.
“Think of yourself as a gardener. You have the water. You have fertilizer. Who you fund is what grows.” – William Glockner, MLA, ASLA
The discussion explores the role of developers, designers, and investors as stewards of culture. Rather than viewing projects solely through the lens of financial return, the conversation challenges listeners to consider how the resources they control shape the places where people live, work, and gather. As technology continues to evolve, how can architecture continue to reflect the history, culture, and conditions of the place it inhibits?
Listen to the full studio chat below, and we invite you to join the conversation!