Investigating The Sacreo In Architecture (Page 6)

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If the worst we have today may be readily used as glaring examples of architecture and design, indeed human culture gone awry, there are sterling instances of design that could have their authors exclaim in wonder as is believed did the architect of the Rock-cut temple of Kailash at Ellora... "Oh! How was it that I built it?"

These architectural events are humbling in their design quality, in their pushing the frontiers of technology or even in their providing a level of facility and comfort as yet unknown. From mega-structures reaching up to the heavens to the little architectural detail that makes the home-space more enjoyable and economical, each of these design moves surely required rather demanded a rigorous commitment and conviction on the part of the team responsible for its successful construction or implementation. Did the architect designing the award-winning scheme not introspect; reflect on conscious thought, on his deep perception and understanding of the human psyche and then apply his competence in crafting space and to borrow a phrase, sculpting the skies? 

Could this not be seen as the pure and sacred in architecture? It is argued that not only is the true and honest design experience any less intense today than it
is believed to have been at the height of the best of our traditional cultural flowering, it is even as sacred. Provided the term can be accepted in a new a vatar. Then architecture can still be regarded as sacred. But only when realised for the cause of new and modern responsibilities that demand an increasing commitment on the part of architect, client and builder.

'Sacred" in architecture and design, just got a new meaning. It is not about religion any more than it is about the secular. Neither is it merely asscoiated with superstitions, ambiguous rites and oblique promises of a berth in heaven or being born again in a higher or happier life. It is now about living and Working with the serious intention of leaving the planet a better place to be on. It is about morality of thought, honesty of purpose and integrity of action. Indeed, it is about a sacred secular.
(Continues…)

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