Ornament is looked down as decoration that was used previously by architects meaning that it does not fit in with the views of modern architects.  It is said in the reading that "Ornament was symbolic of historical forms of architecture." We learn in our architecture history lectures of all the elements that make up every era in architecture. Each one being specific, such as a rose window defining a Gothic church in Gothic architecture. However, why can't modern architecture include elements from other "historical forms of architecture" and still be considered modern. Modern architecture seems to be known for, as said in the reading, "less is more." But what if we no longer categorized architecture by ornament/decoration.

Architecture is more than just looks and function. Of course the intention of architecture in the beginning was meant to just put a roof on top of our heads to protect us from the rain. That is no longer the only reason for the continuation of architecture. Modern architecture should have a bigger focus on the experience rather than its basic function. Of course an architect can meet the regulations and codes for a building, but an architect's bigger challenge is creating a great experience with his or her design. Each and every building is different, and the experience in each will also vary accordingly. The architect has to find the best way in which to create a space that users will be attracted to.

I do agree with the author in saying that "the value is no longer in the hardware." Hardware has been the driving force in design time and time again through every architecture style. However, who says that this has to continue to be the way architecture is? Modern architects can design freely without having to continue to use certain ornaments. There are countless amounts of cars and phones and they all have the same basic function. Both the car and phone were invented for a sole purpose, but every year the designers and engineers try to create something new, something that will give its user a better experience. Architecture is also designed to serve a better experience for the people that it was not able to provide before.

Every style throughout time has its own ornament that separates it from the rest. Well modern architecture is set out to be different. Architects strive to be acknowledge and to stand out-this can be achieved by creating a different experience without specific hardware-by no longer being traditional.  Being able to design freely opens so many possibilities to the coming age of architecture.