“People don’t understand what we do.” This sentiment comes up again and again when we engage in discussions at the AIA New York Chapter about architects as communicators and the challenges of public outreach. The frustration is real. To many people, architecture as a profession may be abstract: focused on distant design ideals or inaccessible technicalities. Yet we know that at its core, architecture shapes the fundamental experience of urban life through the places where people live, work, and gather. Bridging this gap between architects and the public is not just about explaining the profession better, it’s about transforming the way architects communicate, collaborate, and listen.
Storytelling is key to this shift. Good storytelling doesn’t just inform, it connects. For architects, this means stepping beyond the echo chambers of professional dialogue and directly engaging with communities. It’s about meeting people where they are—literally and figuratively—whether at a neighborhood association meeting, at a public forum, or through digital platforms that make complex ideas accessible. Most importantly, storytelling isn’t one-sided. It prioritizes listening as much as speaking, allowing architects to understand the aspirations, concerns, and challenges of the people who ultimately experience designed environments.
Reimagining how, why, and with whom we communicate is vital for the future business success, relevance, and influence of the profession. Through deeper mutual engagement and storytelling with the public, architects gain insights that make their work more responsive and meaningful. Ideally, listening to the people and learning about their communities can reveal priorities that may not align with the preconceptions of designers or clients. These interactions enrich architects’ understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental contexts in which they work, deepening their ability to craft spaces that foster belonging and resilience, and ultimately create more successful and lasting projects.
The benefits of this two-way communication extend beyond individual projects. As architects become more effective communicators and listeners, they contribute to breaking down barriers that have historically separated the profession from the communities it impacts. These barriers—whether rooted in jargon, privilege, or process—have too often excluded marginalized voices. By challenging and subverting these obstacles, architects ensure that the work they are creating is responsive to what people really need. The Center for Architecture plays a pivotal role in advancing this mission. As a hub for dialogue, education, and exploration, the Center positions itself as a listening and learning organization, dedicated to building reciprocal relationships with communities across New York City. Through exhibitions, public programs, and partnerships, the Center creates opportunities for architects and the public to come together to share stories, exchange ideas, and envision the future. Our efforts emphasize that true collaboration begins with humility and a willingness to learn from those outside the profession. By embracing both storytelling as a tool for connection and listening as a foundational practice, architects can reframe their relationship with a public that truly wants to better understand their work. In doing so, architects not only demystify the profession, but also strengthen their ability to design spaces that reflect the diversity, dreams, and challenges of the people they serve.
