Any set of decisions about design is inevitably influenced by cultural prejudice, no matter how intent an architect might be to avoid it.

The quote "Any set of decisions about design is inevitably influenced by cultural prejudice, no matter how intent an architect might be to avoid it," by Martin Filler, reflects on the inherent challenge that architects and designers face in their work. Filler suggests that cultural prejudice—the values, norms, and biases shaped by society—inevitably affects design decisions. Even with the best intentions, architects cannot completely detach their work from the cultural context in which they operate, as their designs are influenced by the traditions, expectations, and experiences of the world around them.

Filler's statement emphasizes that design is not created in a vacuum. It is shaped by a variety of factors, including societal beliefs and historical context, which can subtly or overtly impact the final product. Architects may strive for objectivity or a universal approach, but their cultural background—along with the prevailing attitudes of their time—will still find a way into their designs. This idea suggests that subjectivity is an unavoidable aspect of the creative process.

The reference to cultural prejudice underscores how deep-rooted societal influences can affect even the most thoughtful and progressive design decisions. It calls attention to the fact that designs often carry implicit biases, whether related to race, class, gender, or other social factors, influencing both the design itself and its reception by different groups. Architects and designers may not always recognize these influences, but they are present in their work regardless.

In essence, Filler's quote highlights the complexity of design as a reflection of both individual intentions and the broader cultural forces at play. It suggests that while designers can strive for impartiality, it is virtually impossible to fully escape the influence of culture, meaning that all design is, to some degree, a product of its time and the societal context in which it is created.