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The book "Great Expectations-Notes to an
Architect" is a legacy, a story that speaks to the experiences and learnings of architect Christopher
Benninger. From his childhood days in Gainesville, when he discovered
all the creativity everywhere around him and he
became fascinated, he learned. A mention is made of the Ponce de Leon Hotel
designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany which also
happened to be the first electrified
building in America with the man behind it being Thomas Edison.
It’s fascinating how a young boy looks at
everything around him with curiosity. I love how he says, I was a traveller not a tourist. I can
totally relate to that as whenever I travel, I try to blend in, stay there for
a period of time, and not just be a tourist. Seeing his experience become an
autobiography is so wonderful.
In addition, he discusses how various architects
have come to India to plant their seeds while young Indian architects are going
to America and Europe when their own court has so much potential to develop. His
belief is that the architects of today and tomorrow are uniquely positioned to
better the world, and he holds great expectations for us all.
He says, “Great expectations drive the
realization called architecture. Great expectations drive our spiritual search.
Great expectations ignite our passions and drive us to hard work. Somewhere
within this search is where architecture dwells. Architecture hides within a spiritual
path called life.”
This book is a journey of a true architect, the
people he met, the influences they had on him and perhaps that is what made him
what he was. A beautifully curated series of four chapters chronicles Ar. Christopher's
life in which architecture wasn't showcased as just his occupation but an
avenue to spirituality. I, Ar. Kritka Juneja would personally recommend every
architect and student to read it, to be inspired by it, and find one's own path
to spirituality based on his inspirations. In addition, I would like to take
the opportunity to express my gratitude to Ramprasad Akkisetti for this
wonderful opportunity to review this book.
Review written by:- Ar. Kritika Juneja
