Past, Present and Future Architecture

This video hosted by OMA invites Bjarke Ingels to discuss architecture in past, present and future.

Ingels discussed that architecture tends to fail to capture the engagement of the user without explanation from the designer. As architects, we spend so much time during the design process justifying our desicions. Should buildings be self-explanatory to users or should designers need to enlighten the user? Does it have to fit into the surrounding context and tell a story which is familiar to the locals or can it oppose? Is there a right or wrong answer?

One argument is that architecture can be compared to art. Art has no limits or right or wrong answer. Just like art, you can argue that there is no right or wrong answer for a building concept and justification. What seperates architecture from the arts is the ability for a building to impart significance into the daily lifestyle of a human being. As architects of the present and future it is important for design to be considered and sustainable whilst having social and econmic significance. Retaining or improving built environment character and social dynamics of cities/countries during the new era of 'sustainability'  is important for balance on the 'triple bottom line'.