Balancing how things look and how well they work in construction can be tough for architects. This is especially true in a class like Design Studio II, where new ideas are explored. Here are some important points to think about:

1. Looks vs. Strength

• How Things Appear: Some materials are chosen because they look great, but this can affect how strong they are. For example, glass can make a building look amazing, but it isn't as strong as materials like steel or concrete.
• Interesting Fact: The American Institute of Architects (AIA) found that about 70% of architects say that how a material looks plays a big role in what they choose, even if it means giving up some strength.

2. Price vs. Quality

• Budget Limits: Good materials that look nice and work well can be really expensive. For instance, natural stone looks great but can cost between $15 and$45 for each square foot.
• Interesting Fact: According to the National Association of Home Builders, 61% of builders find it hard to get quality materials while staying on budget. They often have to make sacrifices that can hurt the overall design.

3. Eco-friendliness vs. Performance

• Green Materials: There is a growing demand for materials that are good for the environment, but they can sometimes have issues with performance. For example, bamboo is great because it's eco-friendly, but it might not last as long as traditional hardwoods.
• Interesting Fact: A report from the World Green Building Council shows that 44% of architects have a hard time finding sustainable materials that also work well.