Meaning: Arthur Erickson, a renowned Canadian architect, raised a significant concern in this quote about the architectural world's overwhelming focus on performance at the expense of intuitive and spiritual aspects of space and form. This critique prompts a deeper exploration of the intersection between functionality and the emotional, psychological, and spiritual impact of architectural design.

Erickson's observation points to a prevailing trend in modern architecture, particularly during the mid-20th century when he was active, where the emphasis on performance and functionality often overshadowed considerations of the holistic experience within a space. During this period, the architectural discourse was heavily influenced by the rise of modernism, which prioritized efficiency, rationality, and technological advancement. As a result, the architecture of this era often reflected a preoccupation with utilitarian concerns, such as structural integrity, spatial organization, and mechanical systems, while downplaying the experiential and spiritual dimensions of built environments.

Erickson's critique of the "obsession with performance" suggests a concern that the relentless pursuit of efficiency and functionality may have neglected the deeper, more intangible aspects of architecture. The "intuitive or spiritual impact of space and form" refers to the emotional, psychological, and spiritual responses that a built environment can evoke in its inhabitants. Erickson's assertion implies that the relentless pursuit of performance-driven design may have limited the exploration of architecture's potential to inspire, uplift, and resonate with the human experience on a profound level.

Moreover, Erickson's mention of "the aesthetic of the machine itself" alludes to the influence of industrialization and technology on architectural aesthetics. In the modernist era, architects often drew inspiration from the sleek, mechanical forms of machinery, leading to a visual language characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and a minimalist aesthetic. While this approach responded to the functional and technological demands of the time, it also risked reducing architecture to a purely utilitarian and mechanistic expression, potentially neglecting the emotional and spiritual needs of its users.

Erickson's critique invites a reconsideration of the role of architecture in shaping human experiences and perceptions. By highlighting the neglect of intuitive and spiritual dimensions, he advocates for a more holistic approach that transcends mere functionality and addresses the emotional, psychological, and even transcendental aspects of inhabiting architectural spaces. This perspective aligns with a broader movement within architecture that seeks to reassert the significance of human-centered design, emphasizing the well-being and experiential richness of occupants.

In response to Erickson's critique, contemporary architects and theorists have increasingly explored alternative paradigms that prioritize the emotional and spiritual dimensions of architecture. This shift is evident in the emergence of design approaches such as biophilia, which seeks to reconnect built environments with nature to enhance occupants' well-being, and phenomenology, which emphasizes the embodied experience and perception of architectural space. These approaches reflect a growing recognition of the profound impact that architecture can have on individuals' emotions, senses, and spiritual inclinations.

In conclusion, Arthur Erickson's critique of the architectural obsession with performance sheds light on the potential limitations of a purely functional and technologically driven approach to design. His call for a greater emphasis on the intuitive and spiritual impact of space and form underscores the need for a more holistic understanding of architecture as a discipline that shapes not only physical environments but also the human experiences within them. By acknowledging the significance of emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions, architects can aspire to create spaces that resonate deeply with the human spirit and contribute to a more enriching and meaningful built environment.