My Motivation

Why did I choose this topic? Why did I have to disrupt our ignorance to how architecture controls us? Despite how all of us spend roughly 90% of our lives in it and around it?

I chose this topic to study because I have always questioned why I am so sensitive to the architecture and built environment around me. Yes, we can all agree that certain buildings are pretty, but to me, they represent so much more than that. Architecture affects me so much that I have chosen to dedicate my life to it. I am majoring in Architecture at the University of Michigan with a minor in writing, and since beginning on this journey, I felt the world did not understand how multifaceted and influential the subject of architecture can be.

But how do you get the world to listen when it has a million other things to listen to? (Like Michael Bublé's Christmas Album)? Throughout this semester, I experimented with the modes and genres I could use to entice people to learn.

I first chose to create a visual infographic that could be printed out and hung in highly populated places on campus. I struggled as a writer to appeal to this audience, who would expect the graphic to be fast and easy to read, and to concede to the laws of the genre.

I switched paths to a visually interactive mode of communication: a YouTube vlog (see below). I was able to say what I felt was important, with no 8.5" x 11" limits of space. I connected with a younger audience that enjoys the authenticity of voice and friendliness, which are two characteristics of the up-and-coming genre of YouTube videos. However, I was not satisfied. I wanted to connect with another person through direct contact, rather than through a video. Which is when I chose to do a series of podcasts for my final project.

The podcasts were a wonderful experience, allowing me to grow as a young professional and as a writer. I developed interview skills, professional audio recording experience, and formed some new friendships along the way. Now, as my research comes to an end, I am confident I could continue this podcast series to reach a bigger audience and to learn more about how architecture affects our emotions.