1. Restore
Architects have the ability to take old and neglected spaces and transform them into vibrant and functional environments for people to enjoy, both in urban and suburban areas. This is a concept that has been highlighted by Ellen Dunham-Jones in her book Retrofitting Suburbia: Urban Design Solutions for Redesigning Suburbs. By reading a sample chapter or clicking on one of the links provided, you can learn more about this important topic and the arguments for implementing urban design solutions in suburban areas.

2. Driving innovation
As architects, we are constantly taking ideas and giving them a twist, creating something new and innovative. We do this by looking at things from different perspectives and finding ways to combine familiar elements in new and interesting ways. This approach allows us to create buildings and spaces that are both familiar and fresh, striking a balance between comfort and novelty. By keeping things interesting and always looking for new ways to innovate, we are able to create buildings and spaces that are truly unique and that enrich the lives of the people who use them.

3. Optimists
One reason why the world still needs architects is because they are optimists. This optimism allows them to anticipate and prepare for the future, and imagine things that don’t yet exist. Without this optimism, the world would be a bleak place, full of pessimism and plans for the worst. Instead, architects bring hope and possibility to the world through their designs and visions.

4. Balanced intelligence
Architects are able to balance multiple intelligences. This is not only a requirement of their job, but also a key strength that sets them apart. In their work, architects use a wide range of skills and abilities, including spatial intelligence, to create thoughtful and effective designs. This ability to think and work in multiple ways allows them to bring unique perspectives and solutions to their projects.

5. Empathetic
Architects are known for their empathy, which allows them to put themselves in others’ shoes and understand their needs and perspectives. This empathy sets them apart from those who may be motivated by money alone, and allows them to truly care about the impact of their designs on others. In a world that can sometimes be cold and calculating, the empathy of architects is a valuable and important quality.

6. Tough questions
They are not afraid to ask tough questions and challenge assumptions, and they approach their work with a critical and analytical mindset. This allows them to see beyond the surface of a project and consider multiple angles and options. Rather than simply designing objects, architects think like chess players or basketball coaches, constantly planning and adapting their approach. This strategic thinking is essential for creating successful and innovative designs.

7. Interdependencies
We understand that the world is not made up of isolated objects, but rather everything is connected and interrelated. As a result, we not only design the objects themselves, but also the spaces between them. Through this process, we help others

8. Special thinking
As architects, we think in a multidimensional and simultaneous way, rather than in a linear manner. This type of thinking is crucial for success in the 21st century and should be nurtured in others as well.

9. Something from nothing
We strive to make the most of what we have, so that there will be more resources available for future generations. This approach benefits not only people, but also the Earth itself. By using resources efficiently, we can ensure that there will be enough for everyone’s needs, now and in the future.

10. Remember outdoors
Architects not only design buildings, but also outdoor spaces. A well-known example of this is Central Park, which was designed by a landscape architect. Through their work, architects create outdoor rooms that help people feel at home and comfortable in their surroundings. On a good day, these spaces can even inspire a sense of poetry and connection to the natural world.

11. Integrate teams:
Architects are highly educated professionals who are well-equipped to lead integrated project teams. This is because they are trained to prioritize the needs of others, are licensed to ensure the safety of building occupants, and are committed to ongoing learning. These qualities make them uniquely qualified to take on this important role.

12. Keeping the shape
As the “keepers of geometry,” architects are responsible for giving form and shape to the world around us. Through their work, they provide buildings, cities, and even our daily lives with a sense of continuity and coherence. In this way, they play a crucial role in shaping the environments we live in.

13. Slow down
Architecture is a slow-acting but powerful force on the human soul. In a world that often feels fast-paced and hectic, architects design spaces that help us slow down, take a breath, and appreciate our surroundings. Through their work, they create places that have the power to touch our souls and make us feel truly at home. In this way, they are able to shape our experiences and emotions in profound ways.

14. Chaos to order
One of the key roles of architects is to transform chaos into order. This is especially important in a world where nature, animals, and biomimicry are often celebrated. Without the guidance of architects, our built environment can quickly become chaotic and unorganized. By bringing a sense of order and structure to our spaces, architects help us create environments that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable.

15. The deeper meaning
While architects may only be involved in a small number of projects, their work can have a profound impact on our sense of meaning and purpose. When we think of the places where we have felt happiest and most at home, it is likely that an architect was involved in their design. Through their work, architects help us create environments that support our well-being and allow us to feel truly at ease. In this way, they play a crucial role in shaping our experiences and emotions.

16. Inspire others
In addition to designing functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings, architects also have the power to uplift and inspire. By creating environments that encourage us to look up and explore, architects help us to raise our awareness and experience the world in new and exciting ways. A great example of this is the structural glass floor and outdoor amphitheater at the Jean Nouvel-designed Guthrie Theater, which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Through their work, architects can provide us with truly transformative experiences that enrich our lives and inspire us to reach for new heights.

17. Identity of space
Architects are skilled in creating a sense of place and identity through the design of buildings and spaces. This type of branding goes beyond corporate branding, and focuses on the unique qualities and characteristics of a location. Architects who specialize in this field are known as branded environment architects, and they use their expertise to help people feel oriented and connected to the places they visit. In the best cases, these architects can help create spaces that people will want to return to again and again.

18. Seeking beauty
Architects deal with beauty in their work. Although the concept of beauty may be controversial in some circles, it is something that is essential to our lives. Architects often take inspiration from nature in their designs, and in doing so, they help to enhance the beauty of the world around us. By creating buildings and spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, architects contribute to the overall beauty of the environment.

19. Wow effect
Architects create awe-inspiring structures and spaces. In a world where daily life can be mundane, architects provide moments of amazement and wonder. When people encounter a beautifully designed building or space, they often experience a sense of awe at the skill and creativity of the architect. This is the unique contribution that architects make to the world, and it is a gift that enriches our lives and enhances our appreciation for the built environment.

20. Making cities worth living in
Architects play a crucial role in shaping the spaces where we live, work, and play. They are the ones who help us realize our dreams and create the environments that inspire us to pursue our destiny. Without them, our cities, homes, and communities would be dull and uninspiring. So the next time you admire a beautiful building or walk through a well-designed space, remember that an architect was likely behind it, helping to make your experience on this planet a little more meaningful.

21. Combining expertise
As architects, we are skilled technologists, artists, and craftsmen. We use our hands to learn and our imagination to create, infusing technology with a human touch to ensure that what we design is both functional and beautiful. Our work brings joy to people’s lives and endures for generations. Through our careful planning and attention to detail, we strive to make the world a better place, one building at a time.

22. Serve everyone
While it is true that many architects are known for designing luxury homes and high-end commercial buildings, there are also many who are dedicated to serving the underprivileged. For these architects, creating affordable housing and other types of buildings for low-income communities is a higher calling and a source of great fulfillment. These projects may not be as financially lucrative as working with wealthy clients, but the positive impact they have on the lives of the people who live in these buildings is immeasurable. As architects, we have the power to help create thriving, vibrant communities, and that is a responsibility that we take very seriously.

23. Protecting our environment
As architects, we are the custodians of the built environment. We are responsible for designing and creating the buildings and spaces where people live, work, and play. Without us, our cities and communities would be chaotic and unplanned. It is our job to ensure that the spaces we create are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. So if not architects, who else would be responsible for this important work? The answer is no one. As architects, we are uniquely qualified to take on this role and make a positive impact on the world around us.

24. Push boundaries
As architects, we are always looking to push the boundaries and move the ball forward. We are neither sentimentalists nor futurists, but rather optimists who believe in the ongoing evolution of humanity and the built environment. With every commission, we strive to push the envelope and create something new and innovative. We do our part to advance the field and help the world progress. As architects, we are proud to be a part of this movement and to contribute to the evolution of our built environment.

25. Envoke beauty
As architects, we are committed to bringing the beauty and poetry of the indoors out into the world. We do this by carefully integrating our buildings into the landscape, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. While museums and libraries may be the traditional homes of art and poetry, we work hard to bring these qualities to the outdoors, creating spaces that are both inspiring and inviting. Through our work, we strive to make the world a more beautiful and harmonious place, one building at a time.

26. Understanding of light
As architects, we are master shapers of light. We understand the transformative power of light and how it can enhance the beauty and functionality of a space. This is something that the architect Louis Kahn was particularly skilled at, and he famously said that “the sun never knew how great it was until it struck the side of a building.” Through our careful manipulation of light, we are able to create spaces that are both welcoming and inspiring, bringing out the best in the buildings we design.

27. Amazed by the world
As architects, we are often fascinated by the world around us and are constantly seeking new ways to explore and understand it. This curiosity and passion for discovery is what drives us to create innovative and beautiful buildings. It is also what makes us such interesting people. In fact, many people find that their best friends are architects, because we are always full of interesting ideas and insights. We try to live our lives by this credo, constantly seeking new challenges and ways to grow and learn.

28. Intrinsic motivation
As architects, we are intrinsically motivated. This means that we are driven by our passion for what we do and the desire to create something beautiful and meaningful. We are not motivated by external rewards like money or recognition, but rather by the intrinsic satisfaction that comes from doing what we love. This approach has many benefits, both for us and for the people who use the spaces we design. By doing what we love and following our passion, we are able to create buildings that are truly inspiring and that make a positive impact on people’s lives.

29. Both sides of the brain
As architects, we are unique in our ability to operate from both sides of the brain. We are not exclusively right-brained or left-brained, but rather have the ability to use both sides of our brain in harmony. This allows us to approach our work with a well-rounded and holistic perspective, considering both the artistic and technical aspects of design. By using both sides of our brain, we are able to create buildings that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, helping to keep things whole and balanced.

30. Dreams to reality
As architects, we are practical dreamers. We are constantly floating new and innovative ideas, even if they might seem a bit out there at first. This is how we solve complex and intractable problems facing millions of people. We use our imagination and our ability to look at things from new and different perspectives to come up with solutions that others might not have considered. Through the persistent application of our imagination, we are able to create buildings and spaces that are both functional and inspiring, helping to improve people’s lives and make the world a better place.

31. How to design?
As architects, we have a deep understanding of good design and how it can be used to create livable buildings and public spaces. We understand the importance of considering factors like functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability when designing a building, and we know how to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional. By applying our knowledge of design, we are able to make a positive impact on the world around us, helping to create buildings and spaces that improve people’s lives and enhance their communities.

32. Source of inspiration
As architects, we are fortunate to have a career that allows us to inspire others and be a source of aspiration. Many people dream of becoming architects, drawn to the profession by our ability to imagine and create beautiful and functional buildings and spaces. We also have the unique privilege of being lifelong students, constantly learning and growing as we tackle new challenges and projects. By being a source of inspiration and remaining dedicated to lifelong learning, we are able to make a positive impact on the world around us and contribute to the evolution of the built environment.

33. The senses
As architects, we understand the value of involving all of the senses in our work. While we may sometimes be stereotyped as people who only wear black and are only concerned with aesthetics, we know that there is much more to good design than just visual appeal. We consider factors like color, light, texture, and sound to create spaces that engage all of the senses and enhance the overall experience of the people who use them. By involving all of the senses in our work, we are able to create buildings and spaces that are truly inspiring and that make a positive impact on people’s lives.