Seth Godin, a renowned entrepreneurial thought leader, recently shared a profound insight on his blog. He admitted to having been “doing it wrong all along.” This acknowledgment is a testament to the power of learning and how it often begins with recognizing our own incompetence. Godin’s words resonate deeply, highlighting that true growth and innovation come when we are open to the possibility that our current approach may not be the best one.
In Godin’s blog post, he emphasizes that learning involves a willingness to be proven wrong, rather than a desire to be constantly validated. This principle can be applied not only to personal development but also to various aspects of life, including design and architecture. A recent visit to a local development brought this idea into sharp focus.
The development in question was an affluent community with a strong design ethos. Each home was a unique creation by different architects and builders, yet they adhered to a shared design vision. While the aesthetic appeal was evident, a closer inspection revealed a potentially critical flaw – the roofing materials.
In a region known for its fire risk and heavy snowfall, the choice of roofing material is paramount. Among the options presented, cedar shake and rusted Corten steel stood out. While these materials may have contributed to the desired rustic and contemporary look, they posed significant functional challenges. Cedar shake is highly flammable, a hazardous choice in a fire-prone area. All-out banned in certain communities. Rusted Corten steel, while lending the desired look, raises serious concerns about durability and longevity. It’s an intentionally rusted roof! Ponder that a moment. Moreover, many of the metal roofs had exposed fasteners, and were cheap, zip lock systems potentially leading to leaks and failures.
This situation underscores a fundamental principle in design – form must never sacrifice function. A roof’s primary purpose is to protect the building and its occupants from the elements. Any compromise in this regard can have severe consequences.
In our pursuit of innovative design, it’s essential to remember that just because something has been used before doesn’t make it acceptable or responsible. There are often better, safer alternatives available. This is especially true in industries like construction, where the stakes are high, and the impact of design choices can be long-lasting.
To highlight the importance of this principle, consider the case of asphalt shingles. In the United States, they are a common roofing material. However, a visitor from Germany expressed surprise at their ubiquity. In her home country, asphalt shingles were relegated to use on chicken coops, not on homes. This contrast illustrates that the prevalence of a design choice does not necessarily equate to its appropriateness or effectiveness.
Erno Ovari, President of Spengler Industries and a Master of metal roofing, offers a valuable perspective on this issue. He points out that seasoned professionals in any trade may think they know everything, but they don’t know what they don’t know. It’s often those who are open to learning and curious about new approaches who experience the most significant breakthroughs.
In conclusion, Seth Godin’s insights remind us that learning involves moments of incompetence, and being proven wrong can be a pathway to growth and improvement. When it comes to design, particularly in fields like construction and architecture, functionality must always take precedence over inappropriate design choices. It’s not a fight between aesthetics and function: we can offer both. Let us show you better options that still achieve your design objectives. By embracing this philosophy and seeking better building standards, we can create structures that not only look impressive but also stand the test of time, ensuring safety and functionality for generations to come.
If you feel the same, contact us today and let’s talk about how your roof can be both beautiful AND permanent and maintenance-free.