The Chipotle Example ISP 12

Architects are sometimes not denied, in the practice of architecture that is. So it is for this Chipotle building located in the middle of high suburbia. Regardless of weather you agree with its style of architecture or not (see images below) it's an elegant example of simple modern but best of all it's architecture. You may ask, "Well, aren't all buildings considered architecture?" The short answer is NO. Briefly speaking, buildings express themselves architecturally in one of two ways: First - (Besides their utilitarian function) they display some form of rigor and discipline that follow developed principles in the science of architecture. The second type of building is the unabashed deviation from expressing any architectural qualities, except those of minimal effort and thought. These buildings are typically your strip malls, tire stores, deli's, bagel shops, your basic "Builders special." ( I know not every tire store or bagel shop is an awful expression of architecture) It is sad that most architecture found in the suburbs follow this the second type of building pattern. But why?

It's not for lack of knowledge or budget that creates the second type of "awful building." Most perpetrator's of this sort of construction are well aware of what they are doing. The same budget that creates a strip mall type building could create an appealing structure at the same cost if cleverly done. Unfortunately one major obstacle to achieving this, is the builder simply not wanting to pay the architect to do their job- architect denied. A "Builders" set of plans cost a fraction of the price of a well designed set of plans, even if the project is of equal size, scope and cost. Architectural fees are much greater for buildings that require creative thought, design development and architectural integrity. Builders want to pay the lowest price possible for a set of plans and not intellectual exercises or should I say proper design practice. Builders are not concerned (generally speaking-I know there are great conscientious builders out there) about creating architecture and much less paying for it while they wait for the perfect plan to be developed. I'm not a strip mall designer, but designing anything in a solid afternoons worth of work simply doesn't cut it (Sorry for the dig-I left an office once that operated in this very way). Until some miracle of miracle happens in suburban architecture, the mantra shall be; "Draw me up the builders special- I'll be here tomorrow for those plans."

When I saw this Chipotle building, standing alone in a strip mall parking lot, along a very busy highway, I was impressed. Here is a successful example of creating architecture in suburbia. Yes it's possible and for that, this building makes my ISP portfolio.  Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with the architects of this building or the Chipotle  franchise nor do I represent them in any way- I'm using these images I took as "Fair Use" for purpose of explaining the opinions in my article.