If we design and construct buildings to suit our purposes, why do some buildings adapt with us as our purposes change, but other buildings refuse to change? That’s the question Stewart Brand asks in this six part series created by the BBC, based on his book How Buildings Learn.
Over the course of the series Brand looks at the ways that buildings can change and adapt, the pace at which they change, and why some structures, constructed mainly to make a statement, refuse to adapt well.
This is an absolutely essential series for anyone who has a building in their lives, or plans to create structures of any sort. While the documentary follows the central tenants of the book, it doesn’t cover everything. So you’ll want to get your hands on the book as well.
Via Open Culture check out their links on related topics, including Brian Eno who created the excellent soundtrack for the 1997 BBC series.
