Hi,
This is especially in reply to Olaf at TU-Berlin. Olaf points out that
there is more technology in his gameboy than the average mass produced
residence. Filling a home with circuitry, "smart metals", or structural
revelations OR the architect's operation of a computer, knowledge of
advanced technologies, etc. are not a panacea for the troubles found in
post-war housing.
Unfortunately technology is being exploited to create the American Suburbs
through such "innovations" as minimum engineering which give the resident
"more value for the dollar" and "increased curb appeal". As someone who
has experience in this realm, I think these houses are as disposable and
have a "shelf life" quite similar to your gameboy or the technologically
advanced, Japanese auto.
I personally feel the housing problem is more in the realm of
the desires of the resident and their understanding of what is valuable
in what they buy. The home has been reduced to pure commodity, an equity
tool. This cannot be changed with existing tax codes in place that offer
such an incredible monetary incentive for "ownership". As long as the
housing serves primarily as a "liquidateable" commodity and as home
second, all emphasis will be on quantity and appearance rather than
quality (permanence or craft?) and function.
Thanks for your time.
Brian
This is especially in reply to Olaf at TU-Berlin. Olaf points out that
there is more technology in his gameboy than the average mass produced
residence. Filling a home with circuitry, "smart metals", or structural
revelations OR the architect's operation of a computer, knowledge of
advanced technologies, etc. are not a panacea for the troubles found in
post-war housing.
Unfortunately technology is being exploited to create the American Suburbs
through such "innovations" as minimum engineering which give the resident
"more value for the dollar" and "increased curb appeal". As someone who
has experience in this realm, I think these houses are as disposable and
have a "shelf life" quite similar to your gameboy or the technologically
advanced, Japanese auto.
I personally feel the housing problem is more in the realm of
the desires of the resident and their understanding of what is valuable
in what they buy. The home has been reduced to pure commodity, an equity
tool. This cannot be changed with existing tax codes in place that offer
such an incredible monetary incentive for "ownership". As long as the
housing serves primarily as a "liquidateable" commodity and as home
second, all emphasis will be on quantity and appearance rather than
quality (permanence or craft?) and function.
Thanks for your time.
Brian