In our house, we have a tradition. We erect a tree (You can call it what suits you: holiday, pagan, even Christmas), and we throw a party. The only request of our guests is that they come with an ornament of their own making. For 25 years now, we have been collecting the gifts -- to the point that, except for the new LED lights, only handmade unique decorations adorn our tree. We keep it up (the tree, that is) for many weeks, until the needle drop seems too intense.
How does this relate to the theme of this blog? Have no fear.
An appreciation for the influence and value of tradition is essential to the design, construction and maintenance of quality architecture. Traditions are both pervasive and invasive, effecting virtually every element of a building. The functionality of the spaces, the supportive characteristics of the building systems, the presence (or absence) of appropriate lighting and color. Comfort is where one is at ease with your surroundings - traditions are perpetuated.
So it is in our house. For example, over time the location of our decorated tree has moved; and the basement had to be reorganized to make room for seasonal ornament storage.
Our issues are comical in their insignificance. A good friend is working on the master-planning of Mecca. What would you do if you had to welcome three million visitors, pretty much all together!
Even modern contemporary buildings can support centuries-old traditions. New traditions can materialize in the most unlikely ways. No matter how or when, it's just plain smart to be aware.
Celebrate!
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