Lifestyle

Making Modern Architecture More Functional and Less Phony

Published

3 years ago

February 28, 2021

Modern architecture is becoming overly decorative at the expense of functionality. Folks continue to add faux touches or cheap materials to structures only for decoration and appearance. The following should help you see why modern architecture needs to change and go back to being functional.

Usefulness

Many nonfunctioning building elements are potentially hazardous and unhealthy. For instance, windows that can’t open from the inside. In the event of an AC malfunction on a hot summer day, functional windows help maintain airflow while waiting for air conditioning repair technicians. They also provide a means of escape in case of fire or other threats from within the building itself.

Interest

More people are interested in genuine architectural designs that are functional. It seems people want to feel like they are getting the most out of their investment, and this is something architects need to keep in mind when designing their next building. Folks who want functionality in every corner of their design are willing to pay for this, which should help reverse the current trend. In residential design more than ever, daring and stunning design are demanded by homeowners. Second hand stay markets like AirBNB and VRBO have made unique homes easy to monetize on a nightly basis, encouraging daring design instead of the same old single-family home.

Wise

Installing elements without purpose is starting to look like a waste of money to some folks. The problem is folks have gotten used to some of these elements as part of a home or commercial building. If they’re going to install them anyway, they might as well be useful. Power outages and other malfunctions are still possible, so having something like a natural fireplace as a backup makes sense.

Why Did it Become Phony?

There are several reasons why architecture became less functional and more decorative. The following are some of those reasons:

Inexpensive Materials

One reason contemporary architecture is overly decorative is that affordable material is available. Manufacturers continued to create more affordable materials that made it easier for folks to design buildings without expensive materials like brick. It should be pointed out that while brick is costly, it’s quite functional. For example, it seems to retain heat much better than other building materials.

Simplicity

The other reason architecture has gotten so decorative is that it’s easier to create buildings that look like they have functional additions, like windows that don’t do anything but look like a window. There are many examples of similar additions that remind you that this is a home or a building without really serving a function. Simplicity continues to rise in popularity because it’s cheaper to design and build.

Technology

Another reason homes and buildings have several different nonfunctional elements is because of technology. For example, creating heat using electricity or gas lines made it possible for folks to avoid the need for chimneys. Still, a lot of people install chimneys even if there isn’t a need. They install them because it makes their property look luxurious; sometimes, they even install a digital screen to replace firewood.

It’s easy to see why the phony elements became popular, but it’s easy to see why there’s a movement pushing back. There’s no telling which side will win; maybe it’ll be both, but it’s good to pay attention.

Lifestyle

From Wealth to Fields: A Billionaire’s Commitment to Small Farmers

Published

2 weeks ago

July 11, 2024

Michelle Langton

In recent years, billionaire Stefan Soloviev has transitioned from the world of New York real estate to the fertile farmlands of the American West.

His journey from urban wealth to rural development showcases a unique dedication to revitalizing small farming communities and transforming the agricultural landscape.

A New Vision for Agriculture

Stefan Soloviev, son of the late real estate tycoon Sheldon Solow, has amassed a considerable amount of farmland across Colorado, Kansas, and New Mexico. Soloviev’s agricultural enterprise, Crossroads Agriculture, spans over 400,000 acres, making him one of the largest landowners in the United States.

This substantial investment is not merely a financial venture; it represents a commitment to supporting and empowering small farmers in these regions.

Soloviev’s approach to farming is characterized by his desire to move away from competitive practices that often leave small farmers struggling. Instead, he emphasizes collaboration and sustainability.

By leveraging his resources, Soloviev aims to create a farming environment where smallholders can thrive alongside larger operations. This philosophy is particularly evident in his strategic acquisition of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad, a critical transportation link for agricultural products in the region.

Revitalizing Rural Communities

Soloviev’s impact extends beyond farmland acquisition. His purchase of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad at a bankruptcy auction for $10.7 million highlights his broader vision for the agricultural sector.

This railroad, previously owned by Iowa Pacific Holdings, connects the San Luis Valley to the national rail network, facilitating the efficient transport of goods and boosting local economies.

The acquisition is seen as a positive development for the San Luis Valley, with Soloviev’s Colorado Pacific Railroad expected to be more community-focused and supportive of local initiatives compared to the previous owners. This includes potential cooperation with local recreational projects, such as the proposed Heart of the Valley Trail, which aims to integrate rail and trail use for community benefit.

Soloviev’s dedication to the region is also reflected in his willingness to work with local stakeholders to address community needs. His approach contrasts with more traditional, profit-driven business models and underscores his commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive agricultural ecosystem.

Building a Sustainable Future

Soloviev’s investment in the Colorado Pacific Railroad and the broader agricultural infrastructure is part of a long-term vision to create a more resilient and sustainable farming community. By improving transportation networks and providing support to small farmers, he hopes to mitigate some of the challenges these farmers face, such as market access and transportation costs.

Moreover, Soloviev’s initiatives are seen as a way to preserve and enhance the rural way of life, which is increasingly threatened by industrial farming and urban encroachment. His efforts to balance economic viability with environmental stewardship demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the complexities of modern agriculture.

In conclusion, Stefan Soloviev’s transition from urban real estate mogul to a champion of small farmers is a testament to his innovative and community-oriented approach.

His significant investments in farmland and infrastructure, coupled with a commitment to sustainability and local engagement, are paving the way for a brighter future for small farmers in Colorado and beyond. Through his efforts, Soloviev is not only transforming

the agricultural landscape but also setting a precedent for how wealth and resources can be used to foster positive change in rural communities.