The Shift of Design Discourse from Page to Phone Screen

Architecture Criticism Finds New Life on Social Media

In recent years, architecture criticism has undergone a fascinating transformation, fueled by the rise of social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Once confined to academic circles and niche publications, architectural discourse is now reaching billions of users worldwide.

It has been reshaped into digestible, entertaining, and impactful content.

From advocacy and education to humor and critique, creators are redefining how we engage with architecture in the age of the internet.

The Birth of “Very Online Architecture”

Social media has created an engaging new space for architecture enthusiasts, students, professionals, and even casual observers to explore the built environment.

This trend, sometimes called “Very Online Architecture,” thrives on short, visually compelling formats tailored to massive audiences.

Platforms like TikTok and YouTube now offer fresh takes on architecture and urban design.

These spaces move away from the technical jargon or exclusivity often found in traditional discourse.

Making Architecture Accessible and Fun

One remarkable feature of this movement is its ability to bridge the gap between professional expertise and everyday experience.

Creators like the unlicensed but enthusiastic Diana Regan and licensed architect Dami Lee show this dynamic in action.

They break down complex topics like suburban development and car culture into relatable and engaging stories.

This shows that anyone can develop a passion for architecture.

It’s not just about formal qualifications anymore.

Many creators began experimenting with content during the COVID-19 pandemic, when conventional architectural work slowed down.

This accessibility broadens the audience and diversifies the perspectives in architectural criticism.

The Power of Storytelling in Architectural Education

Storytelling has become a driving force behind social media architecture content.

Creators like Stewart Hicks show how effective this approach can be.

Hicks, a professor with over 600,000 followers on YouTube, uses pop culture references as creative entry points into architectural ideas.

Blockbuster movies and iconic TV sets become familiar touchpoints that help connect with audiences.

Visual Advocacy for Social Change

The new wave of creators is also about advocacy.

Adam Paul Susaneck, the mind behind “Segregation by Design,” uses his platform to show how race and systemic injustices have shaped urban planning.

He combines powerful “before-and-after” imagery with analysis to raise awareness about equity and design.

This highlights architecture’s role in creating and dismantling societal divides.

Filling Gaps in Traditional Architectural Criticism

Social media’s spontaneous format opens space for discussions often ignored by mainstream outlets.

Comedian Dan Rosen critiques celebrity homes in a way that’s both funny and thought-provoking.

He notes that many traditional architectural publications avoid these lighter conversations.

Creators like Rosen fill this gap.

Learning Through Exploration

For architecture students like Nino Ferrari-Mathis, social media has become a living portfolio and learning tool.

He documents visits to iconic buildings and takes his followers along for the journey.

His audience learns alongside him.

This creates an environment where exploration becomes education for all.

The Creator Economy: A New Career Path?

For most creators, social media complements traditional architectural practice.

The possibilities of the creator economy are significant.

With 11.4 million full-time content creators in the United States, platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram offer alternative career paths.

Architectural professionals are diversifying their outreach and income streams.

Video as the Future of Architectural Practice

The architectural profession is adapting to this new way of communication.

Stewart Hicks now includes video essays in his teaching curriculum, recognizing the power of visual storytelling.

Video as a medium is here to stay.

It will continue to shape how architecture is taught, discussed, and critiqued in the years to come.

Conclusion: Redefining Architectural Discourse

The rise of social media as a platform for architectural criticism marks a turning point in the field’s history.

Creators are redefining how the built environment is perceived and discussed.

This shift makes architecture more accessible and relatable.

By turning complex topics into engaging stories, creators empower a global audience to connect with architecture.

The digital landscape is changing how architecture is shared and understood.

Architecture’s future will unfold in feeds and video essays, reaching beyond lecture halls and journals.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Design discourse has moved from the page onto the phone screen. Is the field better for it?