Academy, our experience
Academy
If I were to ponder upon the essence of the vocation of teaching, I could say that it resides in the belief that individuals can evolve and instill convictions in their thinking through an education obtained from a mentor, a group, or an experience.
We have been professors at LCI Veritas for approximately 10 years, and we have endeavored to instill a vision of responsible architecture in the generations passing through our classrooms. By “responsible architecture,” I refer to the profession that is rooted in the observation of natural, social, and individual phenomena, and aims to have minimal environmental impact while offering a profound impact on personal or collective experiences.
The observation of topography, geology, natural components, natural lighting (sun), prevailing winds, and prominent views (among others) is crucial. Following this observation, design decisions are made that take into account a construction system with a low ecological footprint. We are interested in promoting architecture adapted to the tropics: lightweight, with extensive roofing, naturally ventilated, and, ideally, using renewable materials, such as wood and bamboo for the structure, and local materials wherever possible.
Over the years of our teaching, we have witnessed how these concepts are increasingly understood by younger generations. Environmental consciousness is on the rise, and its acceptance is becoming more natural. However, when it comes to practice, this enthusiasm tends to wane and adapt to the reality of the market. In the tourism sector, there is a persistent demand for sustainability concepts, but in urban areas and commercial projects, considerably less so. It must be noted that market realities, construction costs, taxes, and labor costs often result in low- quality buildings, both in design and materials.
Another aspect we consistently emphasize is the appreciation of public spaces. Costa Rica is a young country with little urban and architectural heritage, rural lifestyles, and a conception of common spaces. In other words, the city is not seen as an extension of housing but as a space belonging to no one, primarily focused on vehicular traffic and of limited significance. This is indeed a challenging task, and consequently, one of great importance.
We have intervened in several parks in San Jose, conducted community workshops to listen to the resident population, and aimed to enrich these underutilized spaces with content, hoping to breathe life into them. We have also worked on planting pollinators and interesting species in the tropical environment.
Perhaps this endeavor is quixotic, as these are higher-order concepts that are not immediately reflected but rather sporadically in the form of signs that the newer generations share the same concern and are seeking ways to implement responsible architecture and urban planning concepts of quality, rather than indulging in excessive greenwashing practices..
