More learning from Architecture?

More from TED. This time Joshua Prince-Ramus talking about the Seattle Public Library (pic from OZinOH on Flickr). I haven't been to Seattle since this opened, but used to stay right next door while it was being built. He makes an elegant deconstruction of the purpose of libraries, before reconstructing the information. They then use the data reconstruction as the literal inspiration for the design. Sort of like semiotics meets Ed Tufte, and their offspring becomes the creative platform. Must try it sometime.

Things that just work

IF!PSFK are running a little commentary about the Tilley Hat today. I happen to have one of these hats as a legacy of a safari a couple of years back. I'll probably never wear the thing again but it is a good thing. Piers' point is the genius of Tilley is in the word of mouth the brand inspires - there's a secret little envelope of 'brag tags' - stories and testimonials - hidden in the secret label pocket, for you to pass on, or add to. However, I think there's something more about Tilley. They just work. They do exactly what you want , do it well, and are thoroughly thought-through. They are conceived (planning) designed (creative) and engineered (production) superbly. Next time we're asked to create a word of mouth or buzz campaign, it's worth asking if the product is good as a Tilley. And that our ideas are as interesting.

Sorry, a while since I posted. Big pitch. You know how it is.

I was listening to Thom Mayne on Ted Talks. I seem to have this recurring theme of planning and architecture. I suppose it's the mix of science and creativity, but it feels like I should know more about how strategy works in an architectural practice. Thom talks about the process of 'negotiation' - of understanding and reconciling different positions and influences. Planners do this all the time but I'm not sure they have a process, more an intuition they then prove out. Anyone know any strategists in architecture?