Every building that is constructed has an underlying logic or deep structure. The logic is influenced by the building systems used to construct it and the decisions that are made by its designer(s). Some buildings are clearer than others, however, and we tend to admire the structures that are well thought-out. Resolving the deep structure of a building in an elegant manner can be difficult and time consuming.
For example, a storefront window system like the one shown above is usually set up on a module so the interior space can be easily subdivided, doors can be easily inserted where needed and glass can be economically replaced if damaged. Every material that goes into a building is the product of a complex manufacturing process.
I once saw a piece of glass that was 9’ tall and over 45’ long. I was told it cost more than $100,000 just to transport it across town. It was truly impressive to stand next to it. We can make almost anything, but to keep costs at a reasonable level you need to work within the parameters set by supply chains engaged in mass production. The bigger the piece of glass the harder it is to manufacture, transport and install. Windows made 100 years ago were divided into small sections because our ability to produce glass was limited in size and expensive. I find it incredibly ironic that you will often see a large sheet of glass today with an applied grid to mimic older windows.
If the owner of those old windows saw the large sheets of glass that are common place today they would likely feel the same way I did when I stood beside that enormous sheet of glass.
What vexes me are situations like the one captured here, when the logic of a building is completely disregarded. The business that moved into this downtown storefront spent a great deal of money and effort on this renovation. However, they obviously did not take the time to understand or respect the building’s underlying logic. Please note that the interior wall could have easily been pushed back or jogged so that the end of the wall met the building at the point the exterior wall transitioned to a solid material. Instead, we are required to look into an empty unfinished cavity from a busy urban sidewalk. They didn’t even bother to put a film on the window. It is unclear if this is a product of apathy, incompetence or ignorance. All I know is that I, like hundreds of others, have to walk past this mess every day.