Why Architecture Is Political

Like many designers, Siboney Díaz-Sánchez believes architecture can improve and engage the greater community. But does everyone else stand by their word?

1 MIN READ

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Siboney Díaz-Sánchez

Josh Huskin 2019

Siboney Díaz-Sánchez

Intentions can be good, but they often stay as that: intentions. Siboney Díaz-Sánchez, AIA, a founding member and co-chair of AIA San Antonio’s Latinos in Architecture Committee, knows that too well. As an architect and former zoning commissioner, she has frequently found herself asking clients, developers, and designers exactly when community input will be solicited on projects that affect public space.

In this episode, Díaz-Sánchez expands on her op-ed “Every Community Is Our Client,” which appeared in ARCHITECT’s June issue, by offering ideas for improving public outreach efforts and challenging clients to go beyond their perceived obligations. She also elaborates on why architecture and politics are intertwined.

Recorded just five days after the Aug. 3, 2019, mass shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas, Díaz-Sánchez also suggests ways in which people can respond in the wake of such an event, which is being treated as a case of domestic terrorism.

Episode 38: Why Architecture Is Political, featuring Siboney Díaz-Sánchez, is also available on SoundCloud, iTunes, and GooglePlay.

Show Notes:
This episode mentions Family Design Day, an event organized by AIA San Antonio’s Latinos in Architecture committee that will be held on Sept. 21, 2019, at Plaza Guadalupe, San Antonio, Texas.

This podcast episode was produced by Wanda Lau and Rob Grauert.

About the Author

Wanda Lau

Wanda Lau, LEED AP, is the former executive editor of ARCHITECT magazine. Along with 10 years of experience in architecture, engineering, and construction management, she holds a B.S. in civil engineering from Michigan State University, an S.M. in building technology from MIT, and an M.A. in journalism from Syracuse University's Newhouse School. Her work appears in several journals, books, and magazines, including Men's Health, ASID Icon, and University Business. Follow her on Twitter.

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