Germane Barnes

One of architecture's most enduring clichés of self-definition concerns the distinction between "architecture" and "mere building"-the notion that the architect's ambitions largely transcend those of a community's basic needs. In a world where a comfortable roof over one's head is out of reach for so many, it's perhaps unsurprising, then, that architecture is often viewed by the public as an unobtainable and unnecessary luxury. Germane Barnes, by contrast, argues that architecture is indispensable-especially in under-resourced communities. Here, Barnes describes his experience working as designer-in-residence for a nonprofit community development corporation. Barnes shares his belief that the joy and dignity good design can bring are essential to one's very well-being.