ameneties, aesthetics, and performance

Every once in a while towers of ilium addresses the issue of aesthetics in architecture. It will always be a controversial topic. The issue of performance is equally controversial, and to make matters more difficult, it can suffer from a preoccupation with objective standards. To give an example: what is the ideal size of a bedroom for a teenager? Will a larger bedroom size, and amenities like larger windows, a private bathroom, and more closet space improve the future of a teenager versus another who lacks those things?

The performance of a building, or a space within a building, can reach a point of terminal design, beyond which the architect can contribute very little. In fact, an architect who is preoccupied with aesthetic considerations AND is devious enough to frame the issue of aesthetics with performance standards (false or true), can expend scarce resources that threaten a successful outcome for the client and the user.

I am grateful that an architect was not consulted about the design of the gym shown in the picture above. To most people it probably looks like a banal, even discouraging space. The lighting looks harsh, the equipment is Spartan and used looking, and there is a conspicuous absence of mirrors.
Yet, by virtue of the people who use the place, and the fact that the equipment is not only serviceable but of higher quality than what is found in more genteel and commercial clubs, the results achieved are more significant than in any other place on the planet.

I don't go there, by the way. It's in Ohio.