Exploring Aesthetics and Utility: CBS News Sunday Morning Presents ‘By Design’
Design is more than just a visual preference; it is a reflection of history, a solution to societal crises and a pursuit of a better way of living. In its annual “By Design” edition, CBS News Sunday Morning dives deep into the multifaceted world of design, exploring how form and function intersect in everything from luxury automobiles to emergency housing solutions.
Hosted by Jane Pauley, the special highlights the enduring influence of style and the practical innovations currently reshaping the American landscape. From the historic streets of Philadelphia to the wildfire-stricken regions of the West, the program examines how design evolves to meet the needs of the moment.
Philadelphia: A Legacy of History and Style
A significant portion of the “By Design” special focuses on Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love.” For more than 250 years, the city has served as a beacon of history and style, embodying a constant quest to improve the quality of human life through thoughtful urban and architectural design.
The episode showcases several pinnacle examples of design excellence within the region:
- Automotive Artistry: The program features the 1936 Auburn 852 Super-Charged “Boattail” Speedster, provided by Reimel Motor Cars of Wayne, Pa., illustrating the marriage of power and elegance in classic automotive design.
- Architectural Grandeur: The special explores the Ardrossan Mansion, detailed in David Nelson Wren’s work, “Ardrossan: The Last Great Estate on the Philadelphia Main Line,” highlighting the opulence and scale of historic American estates.
Solving the Housing Crunch with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Beyond luxury and history, the “By Design” edition tackles one of the most pressing contemporary issues: the housing crisis. Correspondent Lee Cowan investigates whether the solution to the housing crunch lies in the “backyard,” specifically through the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
ADUs are small, fully functional secondary homes located on the same property as a primary residence. Often referred to as “granny flats” or carriage houses, these units have become vital in the West, where wildfires have displaced residents and made traditional housing either prohibitively expensive or entirely unavailable.
The program spotlights Oregon contractor Jacob Fry and his wife, Elize, who utilized their own property to help combat the local housing shortage. By building two small rental units in their yard, the Frys demonstrated a practical application of design to provide essential housing in a time of crisis. However, the report also notes that expanding the availability of ADUs involves navigating significant practical and legal challenges.
Key Takeaways from ‘By Design’
- Design as Evolution: Design is not static; it evolves from the historic architectural styles of Philadelphia to modern, rapid-response housing solutions.
- The Role of ADUs: Accessory Dwelling Units offer a scalable solution to housing shortages, particularly in areas affected by natural disasters.
- Preservation of Craft: The inclusion of classic cars and historic mansions emphasizes the importance of preserving high-level craftsmanship and aesthetic history.
How to Watch
CBS News Sunday Morning broadcasts on CBS every Sunday starting at 9:00 a.m. ET. For those who prefer digital access, the program is available for streaming via the CBS News app beginning at 11:00 a.m. ET.
As the world faces increasing urban density and environmental challenges, the “By Design” special serves as a reminder that thoughtful design is not a luxury, but a necessity for resilience, and progress.