“We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” Quote, Sir Winston Churchill More than structures?   We are creating environments of trust.

Marc Petock Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Lynxspring, Inc. Contributing Editor

As the built environment continues navigating the COVID-19 journey, I am reminded of a quote by Sir Winston Churchill. The quote given by Churchill, was made in a speech in the House of Commons on October 28, 1943 about replacing the bombed-out House of Commons chamber.

The full quote went on as follows:

“On the night of May 10, 1941, with one of the last bombs of the last serious raid, our House of Commons was destroyed by the violence of the enemy, and we have now to consider whether we should build it up again, and how, and when. We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us. Having dwelt and served for more than forty years in the late Chamber, and having derived very great pleasure and advantage therefrom, I, naturally, should like to see it restored in all essentials to its old form, convenience and dignity.” Winston Churchill, London, 28 October 1943

Here is an audio link to this actual 10-minute speech in which he delivers the quote:
https://winstonchurchill.org/resources/speeches/1941-1945-war-leader/rebuilding-the-house-of-commons/

While each of us can have different interpretations of this quote, I believe Churchill understood the power of what a building meant and, in this case, believed that a building was more than just a structure; it was a place of trust and shaped all who entered it and engaged with it.

COVID-19 has taught us to adapt almost overnight to support fellow citizens and the workforce amid the unique challenges it has brought.  It has also caused a lasting impact of how important real-time data and decision-making are at every level of society and within the built environment.  As we proceed with our building and facility re-engagements and prepare the workplace for occupants to return, aren’t we too, making them more than structures?   We are creating environments of trust.

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