Changing Direction

Almost overnight the direction of our lives has changed in a dramatic and unexpected way. The outbreak of COVID-19 and its rapid extension across the globe has brought into focus a myriad of problems that go beyond this healthcare crisis and its serious consequences. We don’t know right now how this scenario is going to end. The only thing that is certain is “the day after” we will have to come face-to-face with the severe inequalities that characterize our contemporary world, and rethink the strategic systems of our social and political organizations. Starting with an in-depth analysis of the public health system, we will need to engage in global action plans to restructure our educational, administrative, industrial, and agricultural activities, as well as our relationship to the natural environment. Architects, designers and engineers—as makers of the built space—will have a vital role in setting the course for this new direction.