The Secret Life of Buildings

I don't think this needs a spoiler alert because the program isn't a narrative but a documentary about social issues related to architecture. However, the filmmakers' take a particular and perhaps controversial position that isn't readily apparent from the title. So if discovering this point of view before watching it is a spoiler for you, then please do not read further.

"The Secret Life of Buildings" focuses both on work spaces and on the vital human need for play and how that has almost disappeared from modern public buildings where people are dazzled and stimulated by unique structures that leave them empty, confused, distressed and ultimately alienated.

The series looks at a number of different types of buildings and architects. It explores how people interact or are unable to interact with the building and with each other. The viewers are introduced to a number of exciting projects and buildings, some of which have been able to combine function with meaningful work spaces.

There are interviews with top architects, including Gehry, Koolhaus, Foster and Hadid. This program takes a strong stance against the ways buildings, especially the latest, flashiest, architect-as-artist buildings, undermine the social spaces people need in order to be fully human.